Should I buy a hybrid car/SUV in 2022 and beyond? | Auto Expert John Cadogan

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[@sabrekat7904]

"deciding on wife number 3,trust me I'm an expert" quickly followed by " could be cheaper to rent" . . . 'Class' John, pure class !

[@jean-marcandjoshua-petsjournal]

Feel you there.

[@angrysocialjusticewarrior]

Hello kitty.

[@tonycarey1735]

Funny to a 14 year old boy in 1980 (which is probably an insult to 14 year old boys in 1980). In 2021 it's pathetic and a little creepy. Or to put it motoring terms refered to in another AE review, it's like a CD player in the latest land cruiser. Still, the technical content is compelling and otherwise amusing.

[@andrewwaller1948]

It alludes me who coined the phrase if it flies, floats or F@##S...... Rent it 🙈

[@jeremysuric]

class my ass. thats leftist logic

[@horizonbrave2901]

amazing video, not so many rants and highly technical and to the point. Such an enjoyable watch, thanks John, love your work!

[@robbies4x4adventures]

Love your stuff John. Knowing some well heeled cab drivers, the Toyota hybrid has been the go to for near on 20 years now. Getting on the plus side of 500,000kms before needing to spend a few grand. All cars have their issues. But that is a pretty big endorsement. The reliability and resale (imagined or factual) of the Toyota across all current models is higher, which is also something worth factoring in.

[@mad1394]

I let your video play while I was doing some work. I know you don't agree with hybrids, but I still love them. To each his own.

[@unclemarksdiyauto]

As always John, you bring up some great points to help make a informed decision! Thank as always!

[@mcmoose64]

The Beetrooter's God has a few things to say about adultery as well . Maybe those bits were optional ?

[@OldFellaDave]

Barnaby 'Family Values' Joyce was away from Sunday School that day ...

[@johnrb9397]

No Anthony, all have sinned. Barnarby, you and me will all give an account for the lives we live. Accept God's free gift of salvation in Christ Jesus and you will no longer stand in condemnation.

[@GuitarsRockForever]

All of the holy book is optional. It was fantasy, and tools created by religious leaders to control the population.

[@wilson2455]

@@johnrb9397 me thinks you've been drinking way too much sacrificial wine.

[@77gravity]

@@wilson2455 I think he's been drinking battery acid. Didn't read the warning label - Religiots aren't big on reading.

[@marcusj4467]

Really enjoyed that perspective John, you say hybrids can be complex, ok sure but DPFs, direct injection systems and all the plumbing that has to support a petrol burner certainly is complex too. Can’t wait until we have more full EV options here like the rest of the world (eg Rivian)

[@rickhunterau]

Hi John, another good one. As someone who drives about 45,000 k per year [many 'off road'] I never complain at the cost of fuel....It is still cheaper, per litre, than bottled water .. and it falls from the sky for free if you wish to catch it...

[@andyburnett8012]

You are spot on with the 'list your reasons for wanting' process. I went through my reasons for wanting a hybrid suv before I bought my lexus rx450h and they were as follows: No turbo, no dpf or egr issues (specifically diesel related), good mpg, lower nox (yes I know co2 is higher with petrol engines but at least nox is lower), space, a high vehicle mass (for better towing vehicle to trailor weight ratio), decent power (300+ bhp), and reliability (lexus). I also hate German cars (irrational reason but relevant in decision making process). I also wanted a smooth running, quiet vehicle which doesn't have any badge snobbery. Lastly, I've had japanese vehicles for 40 years and they've never let me down. I made a list before I bought and I'm happy with the purchase, so great advice John 👍

[@JP-cy1lw]

Great comment. So right, especially regarding the unbearable German brands.

[@stryqx]

As always, very entertaining and highly informative. Really impressed by the way you put it into a global context, the more effective ways to reduce our carbon footprint and just how difficult it is to calculate the upstream energy inputs.

[@JordieG8]

After driving an SUV in which I was putting 500 dollars of fuel in a month, I was looking for something cheaper to operate. I did quite a bit of research between Hybirds, PHEV, and pure electric. I came to a lot of the same conclusions you did regarding "Self Charging" Hybrids. When it came to pure electric, I wasn't comfortable with the charging infrastructure and didn't want to be one of those poor suckers waiting 8 house to even use a charger on busy travel weekends. I ended up landing on the the Sorento PHEV. for my use case, I'm saving between 350 and 400 in fuel each month. Over a 7-8 year ownership, I should see significant realized savings even after a potential battery replacement. Also, my kids where quite happy because they're starting to think more and more about the environment. I didn't tell them that there is potential that the battery production is potentially carbon positive. ha

[@yggdrasil9039]

PHEVs are perfect for Australia until EV charging station rollout is improved.

[@JordieG8]

@@yggdrasil9039 I’m in Canada, and it wasn’t until I started looking for chargers did I realize how far the infrastructure needs to come. But even charging at home the PHEV is perfect for my family. So far I’ve averaged 2.1L / 100 KM in the city.

[@dallass8665]

I own a a 2020 Corolla hybrid i love it I do alot of city driving and I get about 900klms to a tank

[@thoughts7107]

Since 2017, I watch your videos ( I was in New Zealand at that time). 2022, in Australia I still watch you videos and they make more sense after living here. You need an award John .

[@apopisso6302]

Are you an Indian who studied in NZ? Just curious.

[@edvoon]

Thanks John for the easiest to understand, dumbed down description of the difference between a Petrol Hybrid and a PHEV that I have found anywhere on KZbin. It just makes it so clear that Petrol Hybrids are essentially a very slightly more efficient ICE vehicle, whereas PHEVs are at least true EVs, just ones that don’t dare to get off their training wheels and instead lug around a big heavy range extender plus associated fuel to run it everywhere they go. And yes, there’s no point in dipping your toes with EVs. Best to stick with your old clunker for a few more years when the switch is well and truly underway and then get a much much better EV for much less money.

[@craigmacgibbon9166]

"Thank you for sticking with me this long" - I understand Tiffany probably has a pretty short attention span, but I'm sure even she can hold on for 2 minutes

[@Muppetkeeper]

I did many of these sums when deciding what was best to do for my personal CO2 emissions. As I only drive 10,000kms a year, I kept my old car and used the money I saved by not replacing it and replaced my gas boiler with a heat pump. That saved 4,000kg of CO2 in the first year alone. (We need heating here in the UK).

[@taliew38]

Thank you for doing the math!!!

[@Palsrible]

Just reviewed your video for the second time. Such fun. Love the tech talk and reality there in. Keep up the good work.

[@intrasonic]

The hybrid AWD RAV4 has the highest power and torque outputs in the entire RAV4 range. The small extra cost is similar to other car brands offering the option to upgrade to a turbo diesel or higher performance engine for an added cost. If potential RAV4 buyers want the “premium” engine choice, they have to choose a hybrid. There are no turbo petrol or diesel engine choices in the RAV4 range. I got a RAV4 Cruiser Hybrid AWD because I liked the design, size, features and value. I don’t pretend to be saving the planet or even saving money. To me, the fuel efficiency and lower emissions are just nice bonuses of this powertrain.

[@GuitarsRockForever]

Watch the video. And if higher power/torque is what you are after, you are looking at the wrong car.

[@intrasonic]

@@mohvanwah yeah watched the whole thing. Had to wait until 80% of the way through until John mentioned the performance side of things.

[@intrasonic]

@@GuitarsRockForever I was shopping for a mid sized SUV (not a sports car or truck) and the RAV4 ticked the right boxes for me. Are you suggesting that choosing the better engine choice in the RAV4 range somehow indicates that I should’ve bought a different kind of car altogether? I guess you’re the kind of person who only buys base model poverty spec cars, right? Go back to enjoying your plastic hub caps and free appliance white paint job.

[@lee8org]

AND Nobody is mentioning RAW4 Hybrid has about 9dB less noise in the cabin than my old 2010 Subaru Forester (and Forester is not noisy car).

[@intrasonic]

@@lee8org hybrid is quiet when it’s running in EV mode, but when the engine kicks in, I find it to be just as noisy as a regular car.

[@GarageSupra]

Totally accurate comment about getting the smallest vehicle possible. I recently did a fuel economy test on my 2 cars which is on my channel. One is a 2.0T 2.5L 2006 subaru forester (125hp) and my 1.5T 3.0L 94' modified Toyota Supra (415hp). Normal driving gives me much better fuel economy with the Supra purely because of power to weight. So with that in mind for ultimate fuel savings you want a car that is as light as possible so it doesn't have to work as hard to get you up to speed. Because a hybrid has so much extra weight it almost cancelles out any benefits.

[@mordenohare2550]

I really love my top of the line Hybrid Camry but I agree with everything you said John. But I didn't buy it to save money, I liked the car and it does save on some emissions hopefully. My other car is a diesel D-max and though that is not 'green' I plan on keeping it for quite a long time as it is also the environmentally responsible thing to do if you buy good quality then keep it and maintain it for as long as practical or feasible rather than just upgrading every 2 or 3 years.

[@JSmith73]

Covered in point 8. :)

[@Brockybearboy]

John most cabs in AU are hybrid Prius. The milage is pretty huge on them but drivers I speak to love the reliability. Yes complexity will lead to unreliability. I just don't see this is cabs that owners have done nearly 1 million km's

[@romanlewandowski9616]

Well explained John , I put 5 kw of panels on the roof and got a Kia Seltos GT Line. Yessssssssss 👍🚗

[@JSmith73]

Roof covered here too: 38 kWh harvested today! :) Shame not to have an EV to put the excess into though, but I'm not buying one as long as we have EV exclusive km taxes and no carbon taxes - as well as no incentives for long range EVs in Victoria.

[@johnblyth6701]

Hi John. Being something of a physics nut, I always enjoy your detailed explanations of so many things. Before I bought my 2019 Subaru Forester, I did look closely at Hybrid and Plugin Hybrids. My usual long trips are Carnarvon-Perth and back, which is around 950km on mostly very flat and straight roads, with not many hills or stops in the whole trip to assist with regenerative braking. Usually I stop overnight half way, but not always. I decided to stick with ICE rather than go hybrid, as on a long trip (450km+), the hybrid types seemed to me to be a lot dead weight to drag around without adding any benefit at all. I have often thought it strange that this lack of benefit on long trips is not more clearly considered by commentators. However, my wife often tells me I am wrong! My local driving is only a few kilometres around town per week, where I do agree that both hybrid types would be beneficial. I do have one small query about your report on the Toyota Rav 4 hybrid. I am fairly sure you said that a hybrid's battery is ONLY charged by regenerative braking and the like. However, It is my understanding that hybrids also recharge via the ICE engine itself. That is what Toyota says on their website, for example. Was this a slip of the clutch on your part? 😁

[@lee8org]

For your long trips driving Subaru Forester is probably better choice. My 2010 Subaru Forester has still great economy on open roads or freeway (as low as 5.3l/100km depends how heavy is your foot and quality of fuel). But in the city it jumps to 13l/100km, combine average around 9l/100km. New 2021 RAW4 Hybrid Cruiser combine average 5.6l/100km. I haven't done any long trips so cant comment on that. I have to mention RAW4 Hybrid has about 9dB less noise in the cabin than 2010 Subaru Forester. They both very good cars!

[@toddross7507]

A very logical look at the Hybrid case. Thanks for expelling those words to the public. I'm sure those conventional print/online automotive clowns wouldn't dare to upset their advertiser's. Always a good laugh as well John, just wanted to thank you for your videos especially during covid lockdowns we've had in Melbourne, it's always a pleasure to watch your videos and take my mind off everything else. Cheers 🍻

[@secondace]

Absolutely

[@colinatkins271]

As always you present an informative and entertaining video John. Best wishes from London

[@AutoExpertJC]

Thank you very much, Colin.

[@Karkmotuning]

Thank you, John, for providing insightful info on hybrid cars vs economy and environmental benefits.

[@Palsrible]

very good review of lots of stuff. I understand most of it and have been thinking along these lines myself without your technical analysis. thanks again,

[@JSmith73]

Australia getting stiffed on proper hybrid models? I'm _shocked_ ... Great video!

[@Paulman50]

The maths of buying a $26000 cheap new car that only does 9 ltr/100 klm is far more economical than buying a $40000 car that does 7 ltr/100klm. The extra cost in fuel is only about $150 /year. If you own it 10 years you've saved yourself $10000 + or -

[@coweatsman]

Why did my comment to another video turn up in this video? WTF KZbin! I have noticed a lot of strange behaviour with YT replies to comments. Above comment has absolutely nothing to do with this video.

[@Low760]

If you need a small car sure.

[@yggdrasil9039]

Depends how much you drive. If you are driving 50,000km a year, hybrid is the way to go. You will recoup the extra few thousand in under a year. The drive experience is far more pleasant with the engine off half the time when coasting to a stop, driving slowly in traffic, or going downhill as well.

[@meh4062]

@@yggdrasil9039 this... I considered doing hybrid but the cost doesn't justify it since I have a short commute. Sure I'll save gas but I pay more into fees and insurance. I drive 16km a day, 6 days a week.

[@yggdrasil9039]

@@meh4062 OK, fair enough, though a PHEV would mean you'd never have to pay for petrol if your commute is that short. Another thing I'll say in hybrid's favour though (at least the Toyota system afaik) is that it's a simpler design and far less wear and tear on the engine. The idea that the hybrid engine is more complex because you've got two drivetrains is a myth. The whole system is completely redesigned. Someone on YT did a breakdown of a Toyota Prius and took the engine out to inspect and after 300,000km said the engine, piston rings etc etc still looked brand new. Very little stress on the engine and rarely goes above 4000rpm.

[@abogoni]

awesome video - im currently looking at buying a used tarago estima hybrid to save on fuel - thanks for helping people like myself see the bigger picture if im driving say 15K a year and the hybrid has a fuel consumption of about 5.5L/100 compared to a standard tarago which gets about 8.5L/100 thats 3L/100 of savings - which over 15K is 765 a year - which seems okay at first glace until you take into account other factors like the total cost of the car - long term reliability - and other factors like do i really need a big car - do i buy 1500 of coffee a year - do i buy 3000 of lunch a year - am i paying 1000 a year in interest on a car loan - is my car depreciating 2000 a year now the 750 saving in fuel looks less attractive

[@marcelogarcia5094]

Just to shorten my previous post Give up being bias against Toyota I know taxi drivers who get 650,000km life cycles from the battery in Toyota hybrids Try doing that in a Tesla or Hyundai

[@brucemcnair2]

I rented a hybrid Corolla at Brissy airport. Drove to Noosa, spent three days driving gently around Noosaville and the beach, then drove back to the airport. Didn’t use the odometer, but when I filled up, I put in 11 litres!!! Couldn’t believe it. 👍

[@fnorddiscord]

mate this comparison between your Ryobi battery and each different battery vehicle was genius! I actually feel like I finally really understand the difference. You’ve provided much needed perspective for me as I consider which vehicle to buy.

[@Goornootz]

Only problem is comparing a Ryobi Appliance battery to and oversized HE, HP EV battery is idiotic at best. The chemical composition and physical properties couldn’t be more different. It’s like comparing Apples M2 chip to 9 pocket calculators. You think I’m wrong? By all means strap 9 Ryobi specials together and stick them in a RAV4. See what happens.

[@ashmodownunder]

Thanks John, this has really helped me make a better decision (i.e. not getting a hybrid). Will you be putting out any similar videos comparing EVs with petrol/diesel cars?

[@kensmith5694]

He did one in the past that basically said "If Australia keeps burning coal" 1) Coal to EV works out about the same CO2 as ICE 2) Abandon all hope of a livable planet if we are counting on the politicians getting it right.

[@peterowen4456]

I've just bought a new hybrid (Honda Jazz and, in the UK now only available as a hybrid) and it is much better to drive than its predecessor but you are right it would have been greener to keep my old Honda Jazz!

[@jacobheinz8236]

I have driven the Honda Jazz eHev and was really disappointed with the high fuel consumption at 5.1L/100kms when on motorways with steep climbs and downhill. The regen charged the tiny battery real fast but the battery was also discharge really fast! The only benefit it seems was at traffic lights and for a short distance at low speed. This sounds crazy but sadly it’s true! There goes the hybrids for me. Don’t get me wrong, the eHev is a great little car to drive! Not sure what I was saving tbh, if any.

[@joaopedromartinsdealmeidal5331]

Great video again! Note however that HEV or PHEV drive much better in town than a conventional internal combustion engine with stop&start technology or even a mild-hybrid. It gives you a relaxing feeling when driving in traffic jams that's simply priceless (essentially because there are no vibrations at low speeds when in electric). Inching forward with the electric motor is also natural and safe. I replaced my bmw series 2 diesel (DCT transmission) by the same model but the PHEV version with the torque converter transmission. Reduced consumption from 4.6L/100km to 2.4L/100km adopting the same driving style. 50km in pure electric is the key. So, if you do a lot of city driving, then you definitely want a hybrid. BUT!!! please check if the transmission is a dual clutch (DCT). If it is, just run away. DCTs are fast and super fun but not if you drive a lot in town. Inching forward with this transmission will destroy it without you knowing (prepare for spending some money...), and the fuel consumption reduction is simply not significant. Hybrids are great, PHEVs are better BUT with a torque converter transmission or a e-CVT (for Toyotas, Hondas...). Otherwise, and if you do only a few miles a day, pick instead a cheap (very much) used 100% EV (a Zoe or a Leaf with something like >70% of battery health) and after a few years of usage throw it directly to the recycle bin as it will worth nothing by then!

[@disasterarea6084]

We've been base model kluger owners now coming into our third generation, average 16,000km a year and the 2016 model we had averaged 16L/100km it's 5 year life with us. The hybrid version of the new Kluger costs only $2500 more than the V6, and you don't just get the hybrid system, you get a full climate control that the base model doesn't have. Fuel use wise we've averaged 7.1L/100km with the 2021 Kluger over the old one, that's an 8.9L saving, and quality fuel (we only use 98 ever) is over $2 a litre. That's a saving of $2,848 every year we own it, and assuming we replace at the 5 year mark that will be $11,740 saved over buying the V6, less fuel burned, and frankly I'd call this worthwhile. The Trade in will also be higher, as in 5 years it will still be in peak condition and hybrids will be more in demand, not everyone can afford a $60k car. We would have gone the Sorento PHEV but it's $24k more onroad, and I would not trust their first attempt at such a complex engine, lets face it KIA have come a very long way indeed but they're not as reliable I would say, yet. Maybe in BEV forms and that will be our next car... hybrid is a one car stepping stone from fat ICE, whilst the EV infrastructure is sorted out. Also the Sorento...still nowhere to be seen here in AUS, so even if the price weren't quite so hight it's stil impossible to buy one in October 21.

[@tranlee5622]

Do you have kluger awd or rear wheel drive in hybrid and also your previous petrol one?

[@mohsinaboobacker8804]

How do you compare the drive between v6 and hybrid? I’m thinking if the hybrid is underpowered and as per John the battery will degrade and the power will reduce further! But your 16L/100 km on v6 scares me!!

[@johnburnett5624]

Surely some of these stats must be wrong. My 2014 3ltr Izusu Dmax towing a 2400kg caravan in Tassie averaged out at 16L/100km @@mohsinaboobacker8804

[@SCBodyboarder83]

Meh, I'm picking my Rav4 hybrid cruiser AWD at the end of the month. To each their own I guess.

[@jamesmcmillan2656]

I wonder if that higher authority in the sky averted his eyes while the Beetrooter was committing adultery lol

[@johnrb9397]

No and it does not excuse what he did to his wife and children. Thou hypocrite, first cast out the beam out of thine own eye; and then shalt thou see clearly to cast out the mote out of thy brother's eye.

[@GuitarsRockForever]

Well, just check the record: churches have been abusing children for very long time, the "higher authority in the sky" has no problem with it what so ever.

[@ivanolsen8596]

@@GuitarsRockForever I have always wondered how the " Holier than Thou" set reconsile themselves with that one, they always seem to have reasons to cover the peculiarities of their beliefs.

[@78pianist]

I agree. Hybrids a great if one really does over 25000km per year (around 500km per week). Also saving an upfront cost of 25% compared to an SUV with a smaller car is very clear. However the real life savings of the equivalent Hybrid RAV 4 compared to the petrol only are greater than on paper from what I have observed.

[@theAessaya]

I would argue that Toyota "self-charging" (agree on the ridiculousness of this term) Hybrids are _mechanically_ less complex than their petrol-only brethren. The main reason to that is their lack of a traditional gearbox and clutch assembly. Instead they have a much more mechanically simple set of planetary gears, permanently coupled to all main drivetrain components. The _electronics_ bit is, however, fair bit more complex indeed. Another loss of complexity is the lack of turbo and all related bits, which many modern petrol-only variants carry. For me the primary benefits of a hybrid (over petrol-only) is the noticeably faster throttle response and smoother acceleration curve. Also, the "self-charging" hybrids are only 50-100 kg heavier than their petrol-only siblings of same configuration, which for a car reaching 2 tons kerb weight is but a drop in the ocean.

[@yggdrasil9039]

Exactly! It's a myth that hybrids are more complex than a pure petrol.

[@taliew38]

100/2000 = 1/20 = 5% ? Up to 5% extra? That’s no drop in the ocean. More mass = more energy required to move said mass

[@gregb1599]

The only future problem with a plug-in hybrid is that like it's full EV brother/sister they will eventually have to pay RUC while the normal ICE and standard hybrid never will, here in NZ RUC is currently $76 per 1000km, however currently exempt on EV

[@alanb9337]

The petrol ice and petrol hybrid vehicle owners in NZ are paying a fair amount of 'petrol tax' to the Government. In Auckland there is an extra petrol/ fuel tax too. NZ sits about mid-table when international petrol prices plus fuel taxes are compared. NZ gov could in the future very likely raise the petrol/ diesel tax higher to make the operating fossil fuel vehicles more and more expensive to push people to plug in battery or hydrogen vehicles (and into hydrogen/ electric buses, trains and onto bicycles and e-motorcycles and horses etc if they cannot afford their own electric vehicles) Lithium batteries will be recycled if economic or rules are enforced to do so, Mitsubishi NZ was sending batteries to Belgium to be recycled, other NZ used lithium batteries/ components go to South Korea for reprocessing.

[@scoundragon]

If NZ raises fuel tax on fossil fuels so people buy hybrids then its a tax on lower income families there or is NZ governments going to subsidise hybrid cars for low income families! Not bloody likely

[@gregb1599]

@@scoundragon Well we currently do have a subsidy on EV of $8600 which is not much help when the average EV costs $60-$70k! And a lesser amount of $5750 on plug-in hybrids which is still not much help as again as again they cost $50k plus. I guess the best deal is for Japanese second hand imports that can cost as little as $9k for an older Nissan Leaf are able to get a $3450 rebate.

[@yggdrasil9039]

RUC should be applicable to all vehicles based on weight not fuel type, since weight is by far the most significant deriorating factor for road wear.

[@haithamal-qaderi2588]

Before I even watch the video. I will say my opinion. I owned a Kia Sorento diesel, it's was a good car but I definitely prefer the hybrid. It's much quieter, more comfy and more joy to drive than the noisy vibrating diesel. I do 60k per year. Driven a 2018 toyota camry hybrid and Rav4 hybrid. They are both great cars for city, I got as low as 3 litres/100k. It took me from Sydney to Melbourne on 40 litres, so even better than a diesel and even more comfortable. It definitely produce a lot less Carbon emissions than a dirty diesel. It's the most sensible choice as the fuel prices are on the rise. It also does up to 1 million kilometres, thanks to the help of the electric engine. I don't think any other car other than a Toyota hybrid is capable of that. It holds its value extremely well, better than any other car. Regarding the hybrid battery, you have plenty of choices, from the new company recycling them in Melbourne to Alibaba where you can get one for 3000 dollars! It's usually replaced after 230k! The cheapest to service ever, it usually costs me 100 to 200 dollars to service including oil and filter and other consumables like brakes, brake pads, air filter, etc. It requires minimum amount of maintenance, maybe the extra thing is to clean the battery cooling fan and air intake manifold which only costs a 100 bucks every couple of years. From my experience and honest opinion, you can't beat a hybrid car.

[@rais1953]

One of the economies of an EV or even a standard type hybrid is the lack of wear on the brakes. Using the electric motor as a generator to charge the battery means not using the brakes to slow down so you save twice - once on fuel and again on brake maintenance.

[@haithamal-qaderi2588]

@@rais1953 very true, his comparison between fuel consumption figures is not accurate. Fuel consumption figures are only true for the hybrid, but for the normal Rav4, the average for such a heavy car would be around 9 L/100k for mixed driving. No way you'd get the claimed 6.5 litres, unless you're travelling on the highway. So the actual saving on fuel would be around at least 40%

[@suphatrachaiyasit7531]

Haitham 100% correct my hybrid averages 6 normal 2.5 engine would be 9 or even 10 there a reason all the taxi go them yes they do heaps more ks but also save big on brakes and they will do about a million ks if you want to keep it forever

[@yggdrasil9039]

100% agree. Hybrids are a much calmer driving experience as well.

[@rais1953]

@@yggdrasil9039 I wanted a plug in hybrid but, as we heard in the video, the savings on running costs would have to cover the much higher purchase price. I couldn't make that work for me within a few years so I shopped for a small hatchback.

[@v3guzman]

Love the video. Very informative. Hope a lot of people would think like this. 👍

[@petermapstone9684]

Great report! Many Thanks again!

[@TheKnobCalledTone.]

I love hybrids, because they trigger battery EV zealots and anti-EV nutbags in equal measure.

[@AutoExpertJC]

Nothing like having everyone hate you. (Not that I would understand that...)

[@arthol51]

Yep good reason to own one....shits and giggles are highly underrated

[@JSmith73]

Gets my upvote; a hybrid system can make sense in a lot of situations (i.e. places with suboptimal charging networks) whilst still being able to recover and reuse kinetic energy.

[@downundermtb4744]

Extra ten grand for a 2 Ltr over 100 Klms is a fantastic gain. I’m glad it’s you 👍

[@rogerthat487]

Not anti EV - gran'ma duck had one. They have a place. Set some early land speed records. But why would you choose to drive around sitting on top of 400, 500, 600 kg of flammable explosive intractable toxic waste?

[@ashleybehrendorff1205]

Let’s not forget about the reduced maintenance and less components to break on a Toyota hybrid such as, no serpentine belt to replace, no starter motor, no alternator and brake pads last in excess of 250,000 klms as they hardly get used unless you are ridiculously heavy on the brake pedal.

[@praktika1082]

I enjoyed this video. It was informative and entertaining, a combination that's truly rare these days. We are looking at a RAV-4 hybrid and the missus is gonna be disappointed when I force her to sit through this video.

[@shaun2072]

Took much longer than usual to watch your always interesting video John, due to the pause and laugh at the deputy beetroot break.

[@robertseely4469]

Very thorough John, as always. Thank you!

[@howdidwegethere3112]

Great video, John In summary: Appearances count We want to look like we are helping Even while simply standing around and possibly getting in the way

[@sparkyoc6766]

Thanks John. Coherent points that resonate with my internal dilemmas. 15 year old Italian car has just took a final breath. Sad, but probably 10 years later than expected! The 25 yr old Camry V6 wagon is still purring along. My current thought is we buy a small petrol car for the family to use for short commutes and wait for improvements in the tech before we take an electric plunge. I'm still hoping that the hydrogen tech is sorted out even though the energy conversion losses seen huge. The benefit of being able to 'fill-up' in minutes send powerful in Aus, but they'll still need much of that virgin rare-earth material that you highlight. For now, I'll keep peddling my pushy to work, as much as my aging body will let me and listen to the birds as long as I can. Let's hope for governments who actually do something about the big issues rather than making us feel guilty about doing the essentials.

[@paulsven7923]

Spot on John.......when the Prius came out some uni in Europe did a whole life cycle carbon footprint exercise and found that small diesel hatchback type vehicle are more environmentally friendly

[@alexanderstewart5906]

I’m with you on the limited fuel savings, however your model doesn’t factor in higher resale value. So it is overall a good proposition if you drive a lot of kms.

[@alexsimmons1803]

Right on. Couple of years ago I test drove the then new RAV4 Hybrid amongst a raft of vehicles I was evaluating. Performance was, well, completely underwhelming. I was surprised at how crap it was. Then it dawned on me. My inflated expectations were set by the motoring media who kept telling me in reviews the extra oomf from the RAV4 Hybrid's electric drivetrain was terrific. What a con. As to doing something much more useful for environment - absolutely home/office solar PV systems for the win (or improving the thermal performance of your home). Unfortunately home battery storage is not particularly green, especially in the eastern states of QLD/NSW/VIC (and it sucks financially). That's because all you are doing is time shifting solar PV energy from the day to the night, and both day and night grids still have a high proportion of coal power in the mix, all while losing energy in round trip efficiency losses which would otherwise have been available to offset daytime coal power. And killing daytime coal power demand will shut down coal plants faster than lowering nighttime demand. In grids where daytime renewables dominate but nighttime power is largely fossil, e.g. South Australia, then home batteries are an environmental positive. That said, just like you point out with hybrid cars, the published data on the embedded carbon cost isn't exactly readily available. There are studies but are generic in nature. It's not like you can look it up for your Tesla Powerwall or LG or Sonnen battery etc. End of life recovery or disposal costs are not considered. It's just assumed they will have value and that's not really been established yet. There are nascent EV battery recyclers in Australia, so at least we'll get some indication of the commercial viability of that processing path.

[@andrewcrooks373]

Thank you for a very good insight and reality check on the value (or not) of the hybrid electric vehicle . We started looking at a new Subaru Impreza S , the got sidetracked with HEV’s . A lot of confusion followed until watching this video . The Subaru is a better car to drive , interior space and AWD and at least 5 grand cheaper than the HEV’s we have test driven .

[@MalHanson]

What to buy? It depends on the typical mission. (Assuming it's being 'green', air quality and running cost that counts) in Ryan's case as a travelling physio, if having to go to clients in one suburb, then main roads to another suburb then probably a PHEV - if from rural town to rural town, then (gasp!) a modern diesel - if inner city, a bicycle (maybe even an electric assisted one) and a trailer for the physio torture implements.

[@justintsoiatgmail]

Insightful thanks for the advice John

[@ivanolsen8596]

How does the Beet Rooter explain how the fellow in the sky dodges all the lightning bolts when the thousands of Ryobi 36V bricks up there started randomly discharging during some of our recent violent storms? Must as "agile" as a polly at question time.

[@Chris_2023_]

Brilliant and highly informative! Thanks John! 👌👌👌

[@TheSouthern75]

Well said John. I am very much a car nut but also somewhat of a greenie too and proudly work in an area which advocates for sustainability. I'm an advocate for renewables, improving air quality and general environmental protection. Unfortunately I find that so many people are greenwashed and I get so many people comment on the fact that I don't drive a vehicle which they perceive as 'green' and I try to explain why what I drive isn't in all that bad in reality. Your comments about the manufacturing processes and waste are rarely considered and I think people are unwilling to consider the problem any more than superficially. I wish I could articulate this as well as you with your fine use of words. Whilst I enjoy driving (including some limited racing) I would sooner drive less kilometres and opt for cycling, walking or public transport rather than purchasing an expensive hybrid vehicle with little to no benefit to me. And yes, I have driven a few hybrid vehicles and they're pretty good but I cannot justify the purchase of one over and internal combustion vehicle at this stage. I would consider an EV but at the moment I cannot afford the outlay.

[@pensiveape6184]

This was such a brilliant analysis with strong and rational arguments. And funny, as usual.

[@markchorlton60]

Agree with you 100% John on all points!

[@scatton61]

I have a second hand 2014 Peugeot 3008 H4 hybrid. It has a 180bhp 2L diesel engine driving the front wheels and a 10bhp electric motor driving the rear wheels. I travel around 500 miles a week and as reported by owners of this and the none hybrid version i am getting on average 10mpg more than none hybrid version. The electric motor means that I get 4wd if i or the car thinks it is needed, It pulls away quietly on electric, it is used to assist with the robotic automatic gear change and it enables stop and start and has enough electric power to drive around a car park and I don't pay any car tax or congestion charge. I'd say that was quite useful. Had i bought the car new then the extra 10mpg would perhaps not make it viable but second hand i know that it has.

[@georgetran2705]

Thank you for your unpopular but brutally honest explanation.

[@DanWallis86]

What a ripper report. Love it John. 👍

[@HeirApparent]

brilliant in every sense, thanks.

[@slimpickins5922]

Excellent, and highly recommended. Thank you 👍

[@Paul-jo4km]

Don't forget to factor in the savings on Brake replacements. 300k km's in a hybrid Camry and my Brakes are still 80%. Maybe over the 80k km's that may be 2 sets of front and a set of rears. I'm guessing at the cost, brakes and rotors, maybe $1500 to $2000 for that. So the $2500 saving in fuel over 80k km's could be $4000 up. So there's that

[@geoffhaylock6848]

Not to mention how nasty those bit's of dust from the pads and disks are to human health. Saw a KZbin video of some environmentalist, so numbers could be completely off, stating that 60% of the asthma causing particles are from brakes and tyres. Maybe regen braking can making a difference with these levels?

[@Low760]

Pads and rotors on a camry, front and rear, $600 fitted.

[@Paul-jo4km]

@@Low760 DBA front rotors $200 pair Bendix front pads $70 DBA rear rotors $216 Bendix Rear pads $70 Labour $300 Total $856 Using discounted online quality parts, supplying parts yourself. At least $1000 supply and fit from a workshop, probably $1500 genuine from Toyota. $600 would be cheap Chinese rubbish using backyard Freddy the taxi repair man.

[@barackblows1942]

How much is a hybrid battery replacement? I’m sure that it’s a lot more than a brake job. FJB 🖕🖕🇨🇳🇨🇳

[@Paul-jo4km]

@@barackblows1942 $3000, hasn't needed to be done yet, 320k km's battery still charges fully. And to reduction in fuel economy since new.

[@Jsanon00]

Video would be a bit better if you mentioned the fact that the resale value of Toyota hybrids offsets the initial 2.5k mark-up. I'm reality if you are an average car buyer who gets a new car every 6-7 years (correct me if that if wrong, just recalling from memory). You won't have to worry about the battery failing as it will be under warranty, your resale value will be 2-3k higher than an ice only and in the meanwhile you will have the benefit of fuel savings, while driving the car you enjoy. Which if you drive more than the average Australian it will be to a considerable amount over the lifetime of the vehicle. With in most cases almost no additional cost due to the resale value offset. With ever increasing inflation and fuel prices, currently $2/l every second week it's a no brainer. Yes if it's for virtuous and planet saving reasons, no it's not a valid reason to buy one. But if you like a specific Toyota vehicle and you are dead set on buying that specific model (Ie Camry, rav4, ect), just buy the hybrid variant of it. In fact if you want any Camry aside from the base model it will be a hybrid by default, 70% of Camrys sold in Aus in 2020 were hybrids..

[@johnrb9397]

Yeah resale always needs to be factored in.

[@matthewhyde3045]

Also there’s a rebate in NSW

[@mfdu84]

Bingo. Other than savings in fuel, resale was a factor in me in choosing a hybrid. Having the electric torque down low is great for about-town drivability and smoothness as well.

[@fredvillani2283]

Great presentation. Keep up the great work.

[@AutoExpertJC]

Thanks very much, Fred.

[@simonargall5508]

Thank you, John, appreciate all your work

[@kirklandDiegoson]

This is Kirkland from Jamaica, thank you for this video it just help me made up my about the hybrid

[@harlandharris1164]

You have not heard the full story from John. I added more facts above.

[@albinandersson3767]

I bought a 2021 corolla hybrid touring sports (euro model) because: 1. we wanted a new car 2. wanted a fuel efficient car (petrol is 2,71 aud per liter here). 3 The toyota hybrid was the most practical in the segment we were shopping in. (It has space for a full spare in the boot even!!) The cars at my current workplace are corollas (2020) and I got to drive them a lot this summer. The roads in northern sweden are propably ill suited for "light hybrids" but i still managed 4,3-4,5 on avarage over around 1500kms. I dont think any petrol car of similar size are that efficient. that said, a pluging model with 10x batterysize would be very interesting.

[@loconut52]

Great video John.

[@lachcris]

Just brilliant , cheered me up no end !!!

[@letsseeif]

Just as Covid19 struck, Scomo said re EV's (paraphasing here) > "That's the end of the Aussie weekend." The COAL ITION happily goes along with these skyjerks

[@MothershipVideos]

Another awesome post...Dude.

[@34Media]

I just put solar on the new house , after nay years of waiting till it was actually worth while, and def a better option then car at present with all teh savings ill be able to send you some more glue to sniff :) in case you run out lol . great episode well said ...

[@robertreid9079]

Don’t know why but this is the most informative and interesting video I have watched.👍 It’s a shame that we have no one with your sense over here in little Britain.PS just realised that is not a coffee machine in your workshop .

[@Peter43921]

Thanks

[@67daffy]

I took apart a 52v ebike battery to harvest some cells recently( Samsung 35E) was all going fine till a strip of them peeled off at once. As i was using a little too much force on one end of the connecting welded joining strips it folded right over to the cell on the other end, BOOM. We all know how much fun a Lithium ion battery fire can be, after the explosion first. I kicked them out of the garage into the open driveway, a mini 4th July. Pics to prove it if you like.

[@maxjeffries8151]

Great, loved the opportunity cost point @ the end.

[@azguzb328]

Tnx , this really healped

[@happyj76]

An excellent piece, the often overlooked "do nothing" option really should be explored. Currently looking for an SUV to replace a 20+ year old Honda Wagon... which is perfectly operational though dated and definitely not sexy. Thought provoking, thanks John.

[@mikeburton7077]

Very interesting well explained!

[@Shanes_Shed]

The facts, always so inconvenient

[@tanweermahdihasan4119]

That's the best definition of 2nd law of thermodynamics, right there.

[@martintokinaga5261]

I get these points. That also apply to PHEV and EV as well. And PHEV only make sense more if you get power from Solar as well. It will be even more informative if you can do similar comparison with PHEV, EV against ICE base on today's technology and price point. Thanks for that.

[@PatrickOSullivanAUS]

Hi John, I'm consdering importing the TOYATA Alphard which has a 2.5L petrol hybrid model. One thing I hear is the lesser strain on the car's brakes, wear and tear on the petrol motor, no alternator starter motor etc. What do you think? The fuel economy is "reported" as being significant. I do undertstand the added complexity of hybrids.

[@jamtin3977]

I always pop my manual 1990 kf laser 1.8, e.f.i. into neutral everytime I travel on down slope rds to save fuel. That's my hybrid, 😆.

[@Buffrt66]

I'm green. I put a 5 speed (overdrive) manual transmission in my '73 Camaro that has a cammed up .100" over bore 454, stuffed under the hood (bonnet). The overdrive lowers the cruising RPM of the engine on the highway.

[@ScottMurrayBestFamilyCars]

Did you put eco tyres on it?

[@harlandharris1164]

I doesn't take much for you to feel green! A friend of mine put a Nova 4 cylinder with overdrive & 4.80 differential in his Corvette. Better cornering due to less weight in front. His Vette club pals hated it but they had to stop for gas at least once a day.

[@tonyernst7090]

Hi John, heard it from someone who in turn also heard it from someone else, Scobie Liberaceson has jumped the shark and bought one of these.first tick on the option's list is total Scotchgard, second is the exclusive self inflating Pedo Mutton Scarecrow.

[@ivanolsen8596]

You can certainly take that as gospel.

[@gromit368]

it helped. thanks

[@johnperry7534]

I love the hybrid because I’ve already paid for the kinetic energy I’ve just built up and I want it back

[@heymike7037]

As a PHEV owner for the past half decade allow me to say that you may be underselling PHEV's a little bit. My PHEV can do highway speeds (120km/hr) for 50km in EV mode without the gas engine ever coming on. Fully 2/3 of all our driving in the vehicle has been in electric-only mode. We save on average about $2,000 (CAD) per year in fuel compared to our old TDI wagon.

[@mondotv4216]

I paid about $5 - 6k more for my Outlander PHEV over a similarly specced petrol vehicle back in 2014. I won’t bore everyone with the figures but doing about 15000K a year I saved about $1000 per year (savings in fuel - cost of electricity). I also have to add in about $900 to get a 15amp circuit to my garage. Yeah not earth shattering. Roughly break even or slightly ahead. But a much nicer ride - I’ve hired a newer petrol equivalent and it’s nowhere near as quiet and smooth. And my PHEV still pretty much drives like new. One set of tyres at about 75,000K. Still the original 12V battery (surprising). Brakes original at nearly 100,000K with plenty of life. Not a performance car like a modern EV but it can tow, it’s incredibly practical with back seats that fold entirely flat and apparently the new 2022 model comes with substantially more electric range. Highly recommended as a light urban work vehicle (commuting and production work in my case). It’s definitely not a tradie vehicle - it’s neither a van or a ute. Funnily enough plugging in wasn’t a problem for me. Guess I’m not bogan enough. No point in buying an EV or PHEV if you don’t have a driveway or garage to plug it in.

[@konstantinkvashnin3566]

Thanks!

[@phillean]

Love it, one of your best.

[@thatdudethatsezshiz7706]

Ok.. so I just totally listened to the David attenbro of cars..... I love a good doco 😂❤ thanks bro... subbed so I can catch the next doco.... and yes very helpful.... lucky my algorithms picked up on what I've been looking into for days now.... very truthful and knowledgeable you are... cheers Yoda 😂😂

[@AutoExpertJC]

May the Force be with you, dude.