Switching to an electric vehicle (EV) or hybrid is one of the smartest upgrades Kiwi drivers are making right now.

With rising fuel costs, improving technology, and more affordable used options, the shift is no longer “future thinking” - it’s happening now.

👉 Lower fuel and running costs 👉 Reduced maintenance 👉 Better for the environment 👉 More affordable used EV options

EVs can cost significantly less per km than petrol vehicles.

When comparing running costs, the difference between petrol and electric vehicles becomes clear very quickly. For a typical Kiwi driving around 300km per week for commuting and everyday errands, a petrol car (at 7.4L/100km) costs around $19.24 per 100km - or roughly $57.72 per week. By comparison, charging an EV using public fast chargers comes in lower at about $13.60 per 100km ($40.80 weekly), while charging at home drops costs significantly to around $5.12 per 100km ($15.36 weekly). The biggest savings come from off-peak home charging, where costs can be as low as $2.88 per 100km — just $8.64 per week.

Choosing between an EV and a hybrid isn’t about what’s “better” - it’s about what fits your lifestyle.

Electric Vehicles (EVs) EVs run entirely on electricity. They’re best suited to drivers with predictable daily travel, access to home charging, and a desire to minimise running costs. Hybrid or Plug-in-Hybrid Vehicles Hybrids combine a petrol engine with an electric motor. They don’t require charging and offer improved fuel efficiency, making them a practical step toward electrification.

For many buyers, hybrids act as a transition - offering efficiency without changing driving habits.

👉 Not ready to go fully electric? Hybrid is a smart first step.

Switching vehicles isn’t just about choosing a model — it’s about understanding how it fits into your day-to-day life.

Key things to look at include:

• Battery range: Real-world range can differ from advertised figures

• Charging options: Home charging vs reliance on public infrastructure

• Battery health (used EVs): Critical for long-term value

• Servicing and warranty: Especially for imported vehicles

• Total cost of ownership: Not just purchase price, but ongoing costs

Taking the time to understand these factors can make the difference between a smart upgrade and an expensive mistake.

Before browsing cars, understand what you can afford.

👉 Calculate your repayments

⚡ Ready to Make the Switch? Get your EV or Hybrid loan sorted before you shop

• Competitive rates • Fast approvals • Access to multiple lenders

👉 Apply for EV Finance 👉 Compare EV Loans

One of the most common mistakes buyers make is starting with the car - not the budget. Getting pre-approved for finance before you shop allows you to:

• Understand exactly what you can afford

• Compare options confidently

• Move quickly when you find the right vehicle

• Confidence when negotiating and often get a better deal

It also puts you in a stronger negotiating position. 👉 Get pre-approved

Switching to an EV or hybrid isn’t just about reducing fuel costs - it’s about upgrading how you drive. But like any major purchase, the key is getting the structure right from the start.

Need Help? Contact Our Loan Experts