If the plug-in hybrid is losing momentum, this engine still remains popular. Here are the most popular models.
Plug-in hybrid vehicles, often called “plug-in”, have received a lot of attention in recent years. However, sales have been declining for some time, as indicated by figures from the specialist firm AAA Data. The latter explains that “sales of plug-in hybrids (PHEV) do not follow the same trend and are down -27% (8% of the market)” in a recently published press release. But this does not signify the death sentence for this engine.
These plug-in hybrid models that please
Sales figures reveal that this market remains dominated by companies, with a much higher number of registrations than those recorded by individuals. Indeed, among total sales of plug-in hybrid vehicles in France, 80% are made by companies, while individuals represent only a fraction of these purchases. Since the start of the year, no less than 20,846 plug-in hybrid cars have been registered in France. In these sales, certain brands stand out among customers’ favorite models. Mercedes, for example, with its GLA, recorded 1,089 sales, followed by the BMW X1 which reached 1,088 registrations. Behind these premium brands, the Cupra Formentor SUV is in third position with 960 units sold. Then come thee Mercedes GLC (882 sales) and the Peugeot 308 (870 sales). These figures clearly show the popularity of SUVs, which are particularly popular with buyers in this plug-in hybrid car segment.
A wide choice on the market
However, it is notable that the Peugeot 308, the only French representative among the best-selling models in this category, is in reality the preferred vehicle of professionals, who have acquired 4,710 examples since the start of the year. This trend reflects a strategic choice for companies, which rely on this compact plug-in hybrid for its performance and energy efficiency. In addition, thanks to tax advantages such as the partial recovery of VAT on fuel or the reduction of CO2 emissions, companies benefit from incentives to choose plug-in hybrid models to renew their fleet. Why such a gap between companies and individuals? Several reasons can explain this. On the one hand, the cost of purchasing plug-in hybrid vehicles is often higher than that of equivalent thermal models. Although government aid exists, it does not always compensate the price difference significantly, especially for individuals. On the other hand, companies can more easily amortize this investment, especially since they also benefit from advantageous insurance rates for plug-in hybrid vehicles.
On the other hand, access to a charging station, essential to take full advantage of the capabilities of these vehicles, is a constraint that holds back many individuals. Many do not have the option of charging at home or at work, thus limiting their interest in this type of vehicle. Businesses, on the other hand, often have access to on-site charging infrastructure or can negotiate facilities from specialist providers.
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