Choosing a Breakdown Policy for A Hybrid Car

Hybrid cars are becoming increasingly popular as the UK makes the move to greener transport. Hybrid cars are a great stepping stone between petrol/diesel cars and electric vehicles (EVs), and they also require less maintenance than their internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicle counterparts. However, they still have a tendency to break down, which is why choosing the best breakdown cover policy is essential.

This guide will cover whether specialist breakdown cover is necessary for a hybrid car, what hybrid car breakdown cover typically includes, and the factors to consider when choosing your policy. We will also discuss whether there are any extra costs associated with these policies, and how our breakdown coverage at ALA can help.

Do I Need Special Breakdown Cover for a Hybrid Car?

No, most breakdown providers don’t require you to take out a unique or specialist policy just because your car is a hybrid. Instead, hybrids are generally included under the same terms as petrol, diesel and electric vehicles.

That said, it’s important to check the small print of any policy to ensure that hybrid-related faults, such as battery problems, are covered. As hybrid technology has become more common, the majority of mainstream providers, including us at ALA, have adapted their cover to reflect the needs of hybrid drivers.

Different breakdown policies will present different prices depending on factors such as the age and mileage of the vehicle: you can start building your bespoke breakdown policy quote here.

What Does Hybrid Car Breakdown Cover Typically Include?

Breakdown cover for hybrids usually looks much the same as for conventional cars. The features included in our policies are:

• Roadside assistance: help at the scene if your vehicle breaks down.
• Recovery: towing your car to a garage or any place in the UK of your choice if it can’t be fixed roadside.
• Home start: included in our “Total UK” and “Total UK and Europe” coverage options, we can provide assistance if your car won’t start on your own driveway.
• Onward travel: options such as alternative transport or overnight accommodation if your vehicle can’t be repaired quickly.
• European cover: if you frequently travel across the continent, European cover will protect you no matter where you are.

For hybrid drivers, roadside assistance teams are increasingly trained to handle both traditional mechanical issues and the high-voltage systems found in hybrid vehicles.

What Factors Should I Consider When Choosing Breakdown Cover for my Hybrid Car?

Not all breakdown policies are created equal, so it’s worth thinking carefully about your driving habits and the specific needs of your hybrid. Here are some important factors to consider:

• Battery cover: Check that both your 12-volt starter battery and hybrid high-voltage battery are covered under the policy. Most breakdowns with hybrids actually come from the 12-volt battery running flat, but it’s good to know the provider can handle both.
• Coverage area: Do you mostly drive locally, or do you regularly travel across the UK? A basic policy might only include roadside assistance within a short radius, whereas nationwide recovery ensures you can get home or to a trusted garage from anywhere.
• European travel: Planning to take your hybrid on a road trip abroad? Then European cover is a must.
• Garage expertise: If your car needs more than a roadside repair, you may want it taken to a hybrid-trained garage or your dealership. Choose a coverage level that allows recovery to a destination of your choice.
• Customer service and response times: A breakdown is stressful enough without a long wait. Look at reviews and customer feedback for insights into how quickly providers respond and how helpful their support teams are.
• Extras and add-ons: Some policies let you add extras like key cover, tyre replacement, or even misfuelling cover. Consider whether these are worth including based on your driving style and the age of your hybrid. At ALA, these add-ons are covered as standard, so you don’t have to worry about paying more for this extra cover.

Are There Any Extra Costs for Breakdown Cover with Hybrid Vehicles?

One of the most common concerns hybrid owners have is whether their cover will cost more than a petrol or diesel driver’s. The good news is that in most cases, there’s no additional premium simply for owning a hybrid.

Breakdown providers don’t typically penalise hybrid drivers with higher costs. Instead, the price is usually determined by factors such as:

• The level of cover you choose (roadside only vs full nationwide recovery)
• Whether you add extras like tyre and alloy wheel insurance
• The mileage and age of the vehicle
• Your driving history and usage patterns

The only potential variation in cost might come from choosing a higher level of cover that gives you peace of mind for your hybrid’s needs; for example, if you regularly travel long distances and want the reassurance of nationwide recovery.

Overall, though, you can expect hybrid breakdown cover to be priced on par with conventional vehicles. You compare breakdown cover policy costs here.

Hybrid Car Breakdown Cover at ALA

When it comes to choosing breakdown cover, our policies are a popular choice for hybrid car owners thanks to their flexible, straightforward details. We understand that hybrid drivers don’t want unnecessary complications, they just want reliable cover that works when it’s needed.

To find out more or to receive a quote, get in touch with us today.