Petrol-Hybrid vs ICE cars – which one is better for Uber driving?
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Choosing the right vehicle for Uber driving is a challenging task. There’s much to consider — space, practicality, comfort, looks, and, most importantly, running costs. Your monthly income as an Uber driver depends on how much you’re paying for fuel, insurance, and servicing, so it’s worth doing thorough research to find an economical car which fulfils your needs.
Hybrid cars have been popular amongst Australian Uber drivers for their numerous benefits, from fuel efficiency to lower running costs. However, compared to the rest of the world, petrol and diesel cars are still pretty popular in Australia, with many drivers preferring the comfort and convenience these cars offer.
But which one is better for Uber driving? This is a tricky question to answer, as it depends on your preferences when choosing the best Uber car.
Here is what to consider when choosing a petrol-hybrid or an ICE car for Uber driving.
What are the advantages of driving a petrol-hybrid car for Uber?
Driving a petrol-hybrid isn’t that different from driving a petrol or diesel car, while offering you numerous perks to help you boost your Uber income and thrive on the road:
Lower fuel consumption – thanks to having an electric motor besides the petrol one, hybrid cars can consume about half as much fuel in combined cycle as a petrol-only car of comparable size and power, meaning you can save up to 50% on fuel costs.
Perfect for urban driving – unlike petrol cars, hybrids are made for the constant start-stop traffic through the city since they’re recharging every time you hit the brakes, giving you additional power.
Eligible for Uber Green – driving a hybrid car makes you eligible for Uber Green trips, offering you a competitive advantage over drivers in ICE cars.
Lower tailpipe emissions – if you’re looking for a car more friendly to the environment but don’t want to struggle with the charging process, hybrid cars are a great alternative offering you the best of both worlds.
Stronger performance - having an electric motor provides a useful extra amount of power and torque, offering stronger acceleration and throttle response.
Smooth driving experience - the electric motor is almost completely noiseless and smoother in operation, giving you a safer and unique driving experience.
What are the advantages of driving an ICE car for Uber?
Petrol and diesel cars are a convenient choice for Uber driving, having several unmatched advantages for those on the road every day:
Affordable models – although hybrid cars are starting to get closer to ICE cars in terms of pricing, petrol and diesel cars still offer the most affordable models on the market. Make sure you factor in the cost of fuel though as depending on the kms you drive a Hybrid may end up being the cheaper option.
Variety of options – while there’s a decent selection of hybrid models available in Australia from all major brands, the variety of petrol and diesel models is unbeatable – sedans, hatchbacks, mini or large SUVs, vans, you can easily find a model to match your needs and budget. You may also find more Petrol or Diesel options in larger vehicles if you are looking to capitalise on higher fares from Uber ride categories such as Uber XL or Uber Max.
Suitable for longer distances – while hybrids perform best in the city, a petrol or diesel car could be suitable for your needs if you’re among the Uber drivers preferring longer distance rides. They can be pretty frugal on the open road and perform well for longer distances.
Before buying a petrol or diesel car, it’s worth considering their future is uncertain. While their availability in Australia is still high, this might change over the next decade. For instance, the ACT will ban the sale of new petrol and diesel cars from 2035, and other states might follow the lead.
What are the best petrol-hybrid cars for Uber?
The ideal hybrid cars for Uber driving combine fuel efficiency, low servicing costs, plenty of space and comfort and affordable insurance. Here are our hybrid cars recommendations as rideshare specialists.
Toyota RAV4 Hybrid GX
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One of the most popular cars in Australia, and for good reason, the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid offers uncompromised driving. With plenty of space for your passengers and their luggage, a smooth drive and famous Toyota reliability it is an ideal choice for Uber driving.
Fuel economy (combined) - 4.7L/100km
Distance travelled on a full tank – 1170 km
Total weekly fuel costs - $89.30*
Boot space - up to 580 litres
Key features - Toyota Safety Sense system, Remote Entry and Smart Start, Reversing Camera, Dual zone Automatic Climate Control Air Conditioning
Price - From $379 per week on Splend's all-inclusive Flexi Own package including registration, Rideshare insurance, scheduled servicing, replacement tyres and brakes and more.
*Calculated with an average petrol price of $1.90/litre for 1,000 km driven per week.
Toyota Camry Hybrid
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The most advanced Camry yet, the Toyota Camry Hybrid has quickly become an Uber favourite thanks to its generous space, fuel efficiency, huge boot and advanced safety features.
Fuel economy (combined) - 4.2L/100km
Distance travelled on a full tank – 1,190 km
Total weekly fuel costs - $79.90*
Boot space - 524 litres
Key features – Smart Entry and Start system, Reversing camera, Electronic Park Brake, Speed-sensing Auto-door locks
Price - From $355 per week on Splend's all-inclusive Flexi Own package including registration, Rideshare insurance, scheduled servicing, replacement tyres and brakes and more.
*Calculated with an average petrol price of $1.90/litre for 1,000 km driven per week.
Haval Jolion Lux Hybrid
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The modern Haval Jolion Lux Hybrid SUV is a great choice for Uber driving, being a perfect combination of luxury features, economical driving and outstanding performance without the hefty price tag.
Fuel economy (combined) - 5L/100km
Total weekly fuel costs - $95*
Boot space - 390 litres
Key features – Keyless Entry, Leather Steering Wheel, Roof Rails, Rear Privacy Glass, Heated & Power Adjustable Seats and Mirrors
Price - From $380 per week, pre-owned vehicles available for express ownership from 2 years and 10 months on Splend's all-inclusive Flexi Own plans.
*Calculated with an average petrol price of $1.90/litre for 1,000 km driven per week.
What are the best petrol or diesel cars for Uber?
Although hybrid and electric cars have gained popularity among Uber drivers in recent years, petrol and diesel cars continue to be popular due to their instant availability, good power-to-weight ratio, long-range, and solid fuel and service infrastructure.
Here are our recommendations for Uber-ready petrol or diesel (ICE) cars.
Chery Tiggo 8 Pro Max Urban
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With a powerful 2.0L turbocharged engine, cutting edge safety, and a whole host of comfort and technology features, the Chery Tiggo 8 is a featured packed SUV that's a great choice for Uber drivers looking for bang for their buck.
Fuel consumption - 8.1L/100km
Total weekly fuel costs - $153.90
Boot space - 479 litres
Key features – Remote Engine Start, 5-star Safety Features, Advanced Driving Assistance System, Voice Control, Wireless Smartphone Charger
Price - From $369 per week on Splend's all-inclusive Flexi Own plan, covering all your ownership costs in one weekly payment.
*Calculated with an average petrol price of $1.90/litre for 1,000 km driven per week.
Hyundai Tucson
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With a futuristic design and technology, impressive storage space, extra legroom and a top-notch interior, the Hyundai Tucson deserves its popularity among Uber drivers.
Fuel consumption - 8.1L/100km
Total weekly fuel costs - $154*
Boot space - 539 litres
Key features – Rearview Camera, Heated Exterior Mirrors, Rear Parking Sensors, Wireless Phone Charger, Hidden Rear Wiper with Auto Swipe
Price - From $360 per week with express ownership available from 3 years and 2 months for pre-owned vehicles on Splend's all-inclusive Flexi Own plans.
*Calculated with an average petrol price of $1.90/litre for 1,000 km driven per week.
Kia Carnival S Diesel
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Splend's first vehicle eligible for Uber Max, the 8-seater Kia Carnival S Diesel
Fuel consumption - 6.5L/100km
Total weekly fuel costs - $123.50*
Boot space – 627 litres
Key features – Flexible 8-seat configuration, huge boot space, high levels of safety.
Price - From $433 per week all-inclusive.
*Calculated with an average diesel price of $1.90/litre for 1,000 km driven per week.
About Splend
We enable people to make money by driving for on-demand apps such as Uber.
Splend makes car ownership easier, more affordable and more accessible for rideshare drivers by building everything they need to earn more, pay less and stress less into one affordable weekly payment. It’s smooth driving, with no surprises and the lowest total ownership cost you’ll find – which is how car ownership for rideshare drivers should be.
For more information about Splend, make an appointment and drop by to your local Splend Hub, email us, or say hello on 1800 775 363.