The Business Times
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BRUNCH

Singapore’s electric dream: 1 to EVs, 0 to plug-in hybrids so far. Here’s why

Branded by critics as a skippable step to fully electric vehicles, a China-driven renaissance could make them relevant again

Derryn Wong

Derryn Wong

Published Fri, Oct 25, 2024 · 02:00 PM
    • As PHEV technology improves, it could offer consumers and business owners an alternative to full EVs long into the future, even in Singapore.
    • As PHEV technology improves, it could offer consumers and business owners an alternative to full EVs long into the future, even in Singapore. ILLUSTRATION: BENJAMIN TAN, BT

    CHIA, who declined to give her full name and works in the financial industry, is the owner of a 2021 Volvo XC40 plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV).

    A car that can run on petrol and yet be charged by external sources, it gives her the low running costs of an electric vehicle (EV) with the flexibility of choosing not to charge it if doing so is a hassle.

    Chia says that when charged, the car offers enough electric range – 40 km, according to Volvo – to cover her daily commute, and it is cheaper than running on petrol.

    Electric vehiclesAutomotiveRoad transportTax incentivesBrunch

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