Insurance premiums for hybrid vehicles generally tend to be higher than those for comparable gas-powered cars. On average, hybrid car insurance costs about 6% to 11% more than for gas-only vehicles. For example, NerdWallet and SmartFinancial report that hybrids cost around 7% to 11% more to insure, while Forbes cites an average of about 6% higher premiums for hybrids compared to comparable gasoline cars.
Several factors contribute to the higher insurance premiums for hybrids:
- Higher Vehicle Value and Repair Costs: Hybrids often carry a higher purchase price due to advanced technology, and their repairs—especially related to the battery and electrical systems—can be more expensive. This drives up insurance costs.
- Safety Features and Technology: While hybrids may have advanced safety features, the cost to repair these systems can be significant, influencing premiums.
- Driver Behavior and Usage: Insurance companies consider that hybrid owners may drive more miles, offsetting some fuel savings with increased risk exposure.
For instance, Progressive notes that insuring a hybrid Honda CR-V averages $1,831 annually compared to $1,574 for its gas-powered counterpart, reflecting about a 16% increase in this case.
However, there are exceptions depending on specific models. For example, some hybrid models like the Honda Civic hybrid might have lower premiums than their gas counterparts, while others like the Highlander hybrid can save up to nearly 12% on insurance costs compared to the gas version.
In summary, while hybrids tend to have higher insurance premiums than gas cars by roughly 6% to 11% on average, the exact difference varies by make, model, year, and insurer. It is advisable to shop around for insurance quotes when considering a hybrid, as discounts and model-specific factors can affect the final cost.
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