Electric vs Hybrid or Petrol car rentals: Discovering the Best Option to Explore the Canary Islands

When planning a trip, choosing the right car to hire can make a big difference to your holiday experience. At TopCar, we understand the importance of this decision and want to help you choose between an electric, hybrid, or petrol car with this detailed guide. Below, we explain the key differences between each option and how they suit different ways of exploring the Canary Islands.

Petrol Car: The classic choice

Advantages of petrol cars

• Long range and independence: Petrol cars offer familiarity and independence, which many people value. They are ideal for long journeys without the need to worry about nearby petrol stations.
• More choices and availability: The availability of a wider range of models makes it easy to find one that fits your needs and budget.
• Refuelling ease: There is an extensive network of petrol stations spread across the islands, making refuelling quick and simple.

Disadvantages of Petrol Cars

• Environmental impact: Petrol cars emit CO2, contributing to the greenhouse effect, meaning they have a larger carbon footprint compared to electric or hybrid cars.
• Fuel Costs: While prices can fluctuate, fuel is generally more expensive compared to electricity for electric models.
• Noise and Vibrations: These vehicles often produce noise and vibrations during use, resulting in an unpleasant and noisy driving experience for some travellers.

Electric car: A sustainable alternative

Advantages of electric cars

• Zero emissions: These vehicles are perfect for travellers conscious of the human impact on the environment. In the Canary Islands, where nature is an important part of the experience, driving an electric car allows you to explore the territory in an eco-friendly way.
• Reduced refuelling costs: Electricity is usually cheaper than fuel, which means significant savings per mile. Additionally, the growing number of charging points, especially in urban and touristic areas, makes travelling in an electric car increasingly convenient.
• Quiet and comfortable: With no engine noise, this mode of transport offers a silent and smooth drive, along with quick response when accelerating, enhancing your travel experience.

Disadvantages of electric cars

• Limited-range autonomy: Battery range and charging times can still be a hurdle, especially if you plan to visit natural attractions far from the main urban centres, such as Teide National Park in Tenerife.
• Charging infrastructure: Although, as we have already mentioned, the number of charging points is increasing, their amount is still not comparable to the number of petrol stations on the islands.
• Charging time: Unlike petrol cars, it is important to take into account that the charging time of an electric car can vary from 30 minutes (rapid charging) to several hours, depending on the power of the charger used.

Self-charging hybrid or plug-in hybrid: the best of both worlds

Advantages of hybrid cars

• Versatility: Self-charging and plug-in hybrids combine a combustion engine (petrol or diesel) with electric power, offering fuel efficiency while reducing emissions compared to traditional petrol vehicles.
• Energy efficiency: These models use less fuel than petrol cars. Additionally, self-charging hybrids can recharge their batteries through braking and driving, reducing fuel consumption.
• Longer range than electric cars: By combining fuel and electricity, both hybrid options eliminate the concern of distance range limitations, making them perfect for long trips or routes where charging points are scarce.

Disadvantages of hybrid cars

• Rental price: Hybrid technology represents a balance between the distance range of petrol cars and the sustainability of electric cars. This means the rental cost may be slightly higher. However, this additional cost is offset by savings on fuel and a lower ecological footprint.
• Heavier in weight: The need to accommodate both a combustion engine and an electric battery often results in a heavier car, which can reduce the vehicle's agility and fuel efficiency in certain driving conditions.

What type of car to rent in the Canary Islands?

The Canary Islands offer a variety of landscapes, from idyllic beaches to volcanic mountains with winding roads. This variety raises specific considerations to consider when choosing a rental car:

To drive in cities and short trips on islands with good charging infrastructures, such as Tenerife and Gran Canaria, renting an electric car is a good option. You’ll enjoy the freedom of movement while saving on fuel in an eco-friendly way.

For longer routes, where charging points may be less frequent, hybrids offer the perfect balance between efficiency and flexibility.

For exploring the islands without limits and covering long distances with the convenience of quick and easy refuelling, petrol cars remain a reliable option.

Choose your perfect travel companion

Whether you prefer the comfort and range of a petrol car, the sustainability of an electric vehicle, or the efficiency of a hybrid, at TopCar, we’ll make sure your choice takes you exactly where you want to go, with the comfort and eco-consciousness you desire.

Don't wait any longer! Rent your car with TopCar and start covering miles of experiences with the best travel companion.