Hybrid cars have surged in popularity across Australia, offering a compelling blend of fuel efficiency and reduced emissions. As more drivers make the switch, understanding the ins and outs of car insurance for these vehicles becomes essential. 

The good news is that you generally don't need a specific "hybrid car insurance" policy. Standard comprehensive car insurance in Australia typically covers hybrid vehicles. However, there are nuances to consider that can influence your insurance premiums and the type of coverage you might need.

How hybrid technology impacts car insurance.

While the fundamental risks of driving (accidents, theft, natural disasters) remain the same for hybrid cars as for their petrol or diesel counterparts, the unique technology of hybrids can have some implications for insurance.

Higher purchase price.

Hybrid vehicles often have a higher initial cost than comparable petrol or diesel cars. This higher value might translate to slightly higher insurance premiums, as the cost to replace the vehicle in case of a total loss can be greater.

Specialised repairs and parts.

Hybrid cars contain both a traditional internal combustion engine and an electric motor, along with a battery system. Repairs to these specialised components can be more complex and may require technicians with specific training. Sourcing hybrid-specific parts, such as the battery, can also be more expensive than traditional car parts, potentially increasing repair costs and, consequently, it may affect insurance premiums.

Battery coverage.

A key concern for hybrid owners is the coverage of the high-voltage battery. Most comprehensive car insurance policies in Australia may cover the hybrid battery if it's damaged due to a covered event like an accident, fire, theft, or storm. However, wear and tear or mechanical failure of the battery are generally not covered under standard policies. Some insurers might offer extended warranties or specific add-ons for battery protection, so it's worth checking the Product Disclosure Statement (PDS).

Safety features.

Many modern hybrid vehicles come equipped with advanced safety features, which could sometimes lead to lower premiums on your car insurance. Features like automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control can reduce the risk of accidents.

Factors affecting hybrid car insurance costs.

The cost of insuring your hybrid car in Australia is influenced by a range of factors, many of which are the same as for any other vehicle.

Make and model: the specific make and model of your hybrid car, its market value, and its repair costs could impact your premium.

Your age and driving history: younger and less experienced drivers, as well as those with a history of accidents or traffic violations, typically have higher premiums.

Location: where you live can affect your insurance costs due to varying rates of theft, vandalism, and accidents in different areas.

Level of coverage: comprehensive insurance, which covers damage to your own vehicle as well as third-party damage, could be more expensive than third-party only policies.

Excess: the amount you choose to pay out-of-pocket in the event of a claim (your excess) can influence your premium. A higher excess usually results in a lower premium.

Optional extras: adding extras like roadside assistance or windscreen cover could increase your overall insurance cost.

Discounts: many insurers offer various discounts, such as discounts for low-mileage drivers. Everyday Insurance offers, Drive Less Pay Less, a Comprehensive cover at a lower cost for cars that are driven 15,000km,or less, per year.*
 

Tips for insuring your hybrid car.

Securing the right insurance for your hybrid car begins with cover comparison to find the policy type that best suits your needs and budget.

It’s important to read the Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) for inclusions, exclusions, and any specific conditions relevant to hybrid vehicles, particularly battery coverage. 

For newer or higher-value hybrids, explore the benefits of an agreed value policy, where you and the insurer pre-determine the car's worth, offering greater financial certainty in case of a total loss.

Regularly review your policy as your car ages or your circumstances shift to ensure your coverage remains adequate.

How does Everyday Car Insurance cover my hybrid car?

Everyday Car Insurance policies are designed to cover the fundamental risks that every car owner faces. This means that your Comprehensive hybrid car insurance or electric car insurance policy with Everyday Insurance includes essential coverage such as:

Accidental damage: whether it's a collision with another vehicle or an unfortunate run-in with a rogue shopping trolley, our policies can help cover the costs of repairing the damage to your car.

Theft and vandalism: the distress of finding your car stolen or damaged is something no one wants to experience. Our coverage can help you recover financially from these unfortunate events.

Natural disasters: Australia's diverse climate can bring unpredictable weather. From damaging storms and floods to the threat of bushfires, our policies offer protection against these natural occurrences.

Above is a limited summary only. Please read the Car Insurance Product Disclosure Statement for full terms, conditions, limits and exclusions that apply.

What Car Insurance policies does Everyday Insurance offer?

To cater to different needs and budgets, Everyday Car Insurance offers a range of insurance products, including:

Comprehensive Car Insurance.

Our Comprehensive car cover provides protection for damage to your car as well as other people's property.

Comprehensive Car Insurance

Drive Less Pay Less Insurance.

Everyday Drive Less Pay Less offers cover for cars that are driven 15,000km or less per year.*
 

Drive Less Pay Less Insurance

Third Party Property, Fire & Theft.

We cover you for all the benefits of third party property damage along with theft or attempted theft and fire.

Third Party Property, Fire & Theft

Third Party Property Damage.

Third Party Property Damage cover protects you if you cause damage to another person’s vehicle.
 

Third Party Property Damage

Optional extras to tailor your policy.

Roadside Assist.

Get roadside assistance 24/7 for those unexpected breakdowns, whether it's a flat tyre or a flat battery.

 

roadside assist

Excess-free windscreen cover.

Repair or replacement cost of your front windscreen glass if it’s accidentally damaged. Plus, you’ll pay no excess for the first front windscreen claim in any one period of insurance.

windscreen cover

Hire car.

Rental vehicle cover if your car is stolen or needs repair, after an insured event. We’ll pay the cost up to $50 per day for up to 14 days.
 

hire car

Everyday Car Insurance for your hybrid vehicle.

Choosing a hybrid car doesn't mean you need specialised or complicated insurance. With Everyday Car Insurance, you can get the comprehensive coverage you need without any extra fuss.

The fundamental insurance principles remain the same for electric vehicles. Whether you drive a petrol car, a hybrid car, or an electric car, the core risks of accidental damage, theft, and liability are consistent.

At Everyday Car Insurance, we're committed to understanding and adapting to the evolving automotive landscape. Whether you're looking for comprehensive car insurance for your hyrbid or electric, we're here to provide coverage options that best suit your needs.

Get a quote online today with Everyday Car Insurance and enjoy 10% off an in-store Woolworths shop every month.°

bruce

Why pick Everyday Car Insurance?

Drive Less Pay Less.

Comprehensive cover for less. Eligible drivers could save up to $320 with Drive Less Pay Less.*
 

Drive Less Pay Less

Quality cover you can count on.

Backed by Hollard. One of Australia's largest insurers.
 

Quality cover you can count on

Award-winning Insurance.

Winner of Finder’s Customer Satisfaction Awards for Highly Commended Car Insurance 2023.
See our awards

Award-winning Insurance

24/7 emergency claims assistance.

Our expert claims team is available around the clock should you need to claim for an unexpected events.

24/7 emergency claims assistance

* Benefits are subject to the terms and conditions including the limits and exclusions of the insurance policy. Eligibility for Drive Less Pay Less is determined by your individual circumstances, including the kilometres selected and other risk factors and underwriting criteria.


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° This offer is only available for policyholders who have a registered Everyday Rewards Card linked to their eligible active Everyday Insurance policy. This offer is limited to one in-store Woolworths Supermarket transaction up to $500, with a maximum saving of $50 per Everyday Rewards Card, per month, regardless of the number of Woolworths services you use. For full T&Cs click here.

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* Savings between $0 to $320 derived from premium comparisons between Everyday Comprehensive car cover option and Drive Less Pay Less option. Calculations based on profiles of existing Everyday Car Insurance customers who drive 15,000km or less  annually. Current as at 06 March 2024. Eligibility for Drive Less Pay Less and actual savings is determined by your individual circumstances, including the kilometres selected and other risk factors and underwriting criteria. Minimum premiums may reduce savings. Kilometres can be increased to a limit of 15,000km per period of insurance for an additional premium. In the event of a claim, if the end odometer reading is exceeded, an additional Outside odometer excess will apply.