Discover The Best Self-Charging Hybrid Cars of 2024

Self-charging hybrid cars offer drivers improved fuel efficiency and reduced emissions without ever needing to plug them in. As emission restrictions tighten and hybrid drivetrains become more advanced, an ever-growing range of self-charging hybrid models are hitting the UK market. 

When it comes to the top options this year, you can discover the best self-charging hybrid cars of 2024 right here. We’ve picked out our top 10 choices for value, technology, driver satisfaction, and all-around capability. Whether it’s supreme efficiency to save on petrol costs, usable electric-only range, space for the family, or premium comfort and tech, you can be sure to find the ideal car for you. Read on to find out more… 

What is a self-charging hybrid car?

A self-charging hybrid car is a type of hybrid vehicle that can charge its battery pack while driving, without needing to be plugged in to generate power. Self-charging hybrid cars have both an electric motor and a petrol engine; the fuel element helps drive the wheels and also charges the battery pack when needed.

The ‘self-charging’ element relies on regenerative braking to charge the battery. This means that when braking, the electric motor acts as a generator, converting motion back into electrical energy to charge the batteries. Typically, self-charging hybrid cars have smaller battery packs than plug-in hybrids since they rely more on the petrol engine and therefore don't need a large battery capacity. 

They can still be driven for short distances on electricity alone. As such, many self-charging hybrids have modes that allow you to save the battery charge for later all-electric driving. This allows you to strategically use electric-only power when you choose - for example, when on the motorway.

How does a self-charging hybrid car work?

A self-charging hybrid car has a petrol engine and an electric motor that work together to power the vehicle. A self-charging hybrid system relies upon the following elements:

Battery Pack

Self-charging hybrids have a battery pack that provides power to the electric motor. This battery pack is smaller than a plug-in hybrid as it is only required to propel the car for short distances on electricity alone.

Electric Motor

The electric motor draws power from the battery pack to propel the hybrid vehicle at lower speeds and assists the petrol engine by providing torque when accelerating.

Petrol Engine

A small, highly efficient petrol engine provides power at higher speeds after the electric motor maxes out and generates electricity to recharge the battery when the self-charging element (such as regenerative braking) is not in use.

Regenerative Braking

During the braking process (or when ‘coasting’) kinetic energy is captured through regenerative power to top up the battery pack rather than it being lost as heat - as what happens in a standard combustion engine vehicle. This is the ‘self-charging’ component which harnesses and reuses the excess energy.

CVT Transmission

A specialised transmission seamlessly blends power between the electric motor, battery, and petrol engine. Often, a continuously variable transmission (CVT) is utilised for better fuel economy and to help keep the engine in peak performance.

Top 10 self-charging hybrid cars in the UK

1. Dacia Jogger HYBRID 140
2. Fiat 500 Hybrid Launch Edition 
3. Hyundai KONA Hybrid
4. Kia Niro Hybrid
5. Lexus UX Hybrid
6. Nissan Juke Hybrid
7. Peugeot 3008 Hybrid
8. Peugeot 5008 Hybrid
9. Renault Captur E-TECH
10. Renault Clio E-TECH 

Dacia Jogger HYBRID 140

• Starting Price: £22,995
• Pros: Lots of space and an affordable price tag
• Cons: Not the best looking seven-seater out there

Blending hybrid technology with ample space for up to seven people, the 2024 Dacia Jogger Hybrid makes sustainable family motoring more affordable than ever. It's a multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) for the modern family with vast cargo capacity and clever modular cabin storage throughout. 

Dressed in Dacia's no-nonsense styling wrapped around its cavernous practical interior, the Jogger Hybrid brings green versatility within budget. For growing households seeking enhanced mobility and lower running costs but unwilling to pay premium prices, the self-charging Jogger keeps new car affordability and sustainability fully aligned for a dream drive.

In stock at Wilsons Epsom: Discover the Dacia Jogger HYBRID 140 at Wilsons Dacia in Surrey and experience an MPV like no other. Save hundreds of pounds on a range of brand-new models and bag yourself a bargain today!  

Fiat 500 Hybrid Launch Edition

• Starting Price: £15,999 
• Pros: Lots of customisable options available 
• Cons: Can feel cramped in the rear

Combining retro-chic style and modern hybrid efficiency, the 2024 Fiat 500 Hybrid Launch Edition marks the iconic city car’s eco-conscious leap into the electric age. The new 500 Hybrid retains its cheeky Italian persona and cheerful driving style for an altogether familiar experience with a self-charging twist. 

For the sustainable road ahead, sensible hatchback practicality joins with electric boosting for up to 30 miles supported by regenerative charging when braking or coasting. Helping pioneer the route to an electric lifestyle, the 2024 Fiat 500 Hybrid Launch Edition is now available in Sicilia Orange for a bright burst of Italian styling. 

In stock at Wilsons Epsom: Discover the Fiat 500 Hybrid Launch Edition at Wilsons Fiat in Surrey. Book in for a test drive to see why the Fiat 500 is the ultimate city car. 

Hyundai KONA Hybrid

• Starting Price: £28,025
• Pros: Fun futuristic look, spacious inside
• Cons: Doesn’t perform as well as the electric-only version

With its trendy styling and cheerful personality, the 2024 Hyundai KONA Hybrid compact crossover proves an eco-friendly car can still be full of character. Employing the same dedicated hybrid platform as the game-changing IONIQ hatchback model, the self-charging KONA Hybrid confidently balances efficiency and enjoyment. Its inline 1.6-litre petrol engine mated to an electric motor keeps you moving without any plugging in required. 

With nimble handling revealing the fun side of economical driving and generous space ready for small families, the 2024 Hyundai KONA Hybrid sets its trend toward sustainable mobility you can live with day in and day out.

In stock at Wilsons Epsom: Discover the all-new Hyundai KONA hybrid which was the Auto Express ‘car of the Year’ in 2023 at our Wilsons Hyundai dealership in Surrey. Take advantage of our competitive finance solutions from just £389 per month. 

Kia Niro Hybrid

• Starting Price: £30,060
• Pros: Excellent space inside 
• Cons: Some of the interior quality is lacking

The 2024 Kia Niro Hybrid hatchback sets its green standard by blending maximum mileage with practicality designed expressly for family life. Using Kia's clever dual-clutch automated transmission paired with a 1.6-litre petrol engine and electric motor, the self-charging Niro Hybrid puts power down through the front wheels without any charging headaches to elegantly greet each new day. 

Expect over 50 mpg whether tackling urban commutes or weekend motorway trips thanks to the Niro's ultra-low rolling resistance tyres, sleek aerodynamics and expert power delivery. The eco-friendly Kia offers plenty of room, the latest tech features and refined comfort for family duty.

Lexus UX Hybrid

• Starting Price: £34,770
• Pros: A luxury feel high-quality interior
• Cons: Small-sized boot compared to SUV rivals

Lexus is a leader in hybrid technology and as such, the luxury carmaker is growing in popularity thanks to its selection of smart self-charging saloons and SUVs. The Lexus UX Hybrid is a forward-thinking compact SUV that adds to the crossover lineup, delivering eco-efficiency with a premium presence.   

Underneath the bonnet, expect a 2.0-litre petrol engine and rear-axle electric motor which draws over 50 mpg from regenerative braking energy recuperated to the underfloor battery. High-speed stability, supple ride comfort and the latest connected services further bridge eco aspirations with indulgent expectations. For private urban commuters seeking unmatched refinement on the road to greater sustainability, the elegant sanctuary of the 2024 Lexus UX hybrid crossover ably balances reduced emissions with aspirational brand appeal.

Nissan Juke Hybrid

• Starting Price: £26,487
• Pros: Very efficient and enjoyable to drive around town
• Cons: The boot is smaller compared to rival crossovers

Adding efficiency and value to Nissan's perfectly popular Juke crossover, the new 2024 Juke Hybrid bundles usable EV motoring with petrol power in a single affordable package. Boasting Nissan's advanced series-parallel hybrid system, a responsive 1.6-litre 94 engine works together with a generator motor for brisk acceleration while returning over 50 mpg. 

The self-charging setup allows over a mile per minute of EV driving at city speeds on a full charge while recovering braking energy to constantly sustain electric assist. The Nissan Juke is a playful compact crossover that has ample cargo space plus a commanding view of the road thanks to the high-up driving position.

In stock at Wilsons Epsom: Discover the Nissan Juke Hybrid at our Wilsons Nissan dealership in Surrey to see the next-generation crossover for yourself. 

Peugeot 3008 Hybrid

• Starting Price: £32,131
• Pros: Great looking and a punchy performance
• Cons: Can feel heavy to drive

Bringing its signature French flair to the hybrid scene, Peugeot's 2024 3008 self-charging hybrid achieves a rare blend of premium eco-cruising and all-weather capability. Drivers can let the 3008 Hybrid4's advanced all-wheel hybrid system juggle power delivery while enjoying 30 miles and more of electric-only range followed by over 50mpg once the engine engages.

The Peugeot 3008 Hybrid impresses with ample cargo room and the latest creature comforts presented in a stylish modern cabin. As such, the Peugeot brand presents a unique upscale hybrid SUV flexible enough to cater to ever-growing families. 

In stock at Wilsons Epsom: Discover the Peugeot 3008 self-charging hybrid at our Wilsons Peugeot dealership in Surrey which is available on finance, including Contract Hire options.

Peugeot 5008 Hybrid

• Starting Price: £36,055
• Pros: Stylish to look at and practical to drive
• Cons: the infotainment system could be better

As the largest hybrid model offering from Peugeot, the new 2024 5008 self-charging hybrid seamlessly fuses family practicality with sustainable motoring. Following Peugeot’s ‘Power of Choice’ strategy bringing plug-less hybrid efficiency to its leading models, the self-charging 5008 Hybrid adds green capability to the brand’s much-celebrated SUV. 

The Peugeot 5008 can seat seven inside, making it a compelling eco-family option. 510 litres of storage space is ready for holiday use or everyday errands, demonstrating the flexible 5008 loses none of its practicality by adopting advanced hybrid technology - it ticks all the boxes.

In stock at Wilsons Epsom: Discover the Peugeot 5008 self-charging hybrid at our Wilsons Peugeot dealership in Surrey and enquire about our latest offers. 

Renault Captur E-TECH 

• Starting Price: £29,232
• Pros: Very economical and an 8-year battery warranty as standard
• Cons: Can wallow a bit through corners 

The Renault Captur E-TECH full hybrid 145 model leads the charge bringing premium hybrid technology to the popular crossover car. Using Renault's clever Multi-Mode hybrid system mated to a 1.6L petrol engine and dual-clutch transmission, the Captur E-TECH makes the most of its electrical torque injection and regenerative braking capabilities without requiring any charging infrastructure. 

Drivers can relax knowing the Captur E-TECH will intelligently blend power sources to maximize efficiency while retaining usable all-electric capability in urban driving. 

In stock at Wilsons Epsom: Discover the Renault Captur E-TECH full hybrid 145 model at our Wilsons Renault dealership in Surrey, available from just £369 per month on finance.

Renault Clio E-TECH

• Starting Price: £20,520
• Pros: A sporty and stylish new look for an old classic
• Cons: The steering can feel sensitive 

The Renault Clio E-TECH Full Hybrid model elevates the brand's celebrated city car to sustainable heights without sacrificing personality or value. As a self-charging hybrid, the 2024 Renault Clio utilises smart transmission software to recuperate braking energy for electric boosting while driving. 

Yet the electrified Clio retains its French charm with vibrant colors, an appealing interior cabin dressed in soft-touch materials plus easy handling to keep driving enjoyable regardless of power source. From school runs to workday errands, the 2024 Renault Clio E-TECH makes hybrid efficiency accessible to the masses in a fun-loving, practical package.

In stock at Wilsons Epsom: Discover the Renault Clio E-TECH full hybrid at our Wilsons Renault dealership in Surrey. Explore our latest offers - including the exclusive Esprit Alpine trim from just £199 per month.

What are the pros and cons of driving a self-charging hybrid car?

As with any type of vehicle, there are both advantages and disadvantages to consider. When it comes to driving a self-charging hybrid car, we have highlighted the main pros and cons:

Self-charging hybrid car PROS

• Great mileage and efficiency - Self-charging hybrids typically get 50+ miles per gallon (mpg) in city driving mode thanks to the combination of electric motors and regenerative braking, helping to save on petrol costs.
• No need to plug in and charge - Since self-charging hybrids charge their own batteries through regenerative braking, you avoid the need for charging stations or installing home charging equipment, which can be much more convenient. 
• Lower upfront costs than plug-in hybrids - The battery packs are smaller so self-charging hybrid cars tend to cost less than plug-in versions do.

Self-charging hybrid car CONS 

• Less electric-only range than plug-in hybrids - Since battery packs are smaller, they may only go a few miles on electricity, rather than plug-in hybrids (PHEVs) that can easily achieve 10+ miles at a time in EV mode.
• Fewer model options available - There are still limited self-charging hybrid options to pick from compared to petrol cars.
• Battery replacement costs - Once the hybrid battery degrades, replacement is expensive, although many manufacturers will provide a battery warranty for up to 10 years as standard. 

FAQS and Answers

We hope our article about the best self-charging hybrid cars of 2024 has proven useful in your quest for an eco-friendly and efficient daily driving partner. If you have any more questions, please refer to our FAQs below:

Are self-charging hybrids worth it?

Overall, self-charging hybrids make the most economic sense for high-mileage drivers who can leverage electric power and efficiency, especially in urban driving. Taking into account your specific driving patterns is key to determining if the hybrid premium will yield long-term fuel savings that offset the higher on-the-road (OTR) prices for you. Test driving models can also help assess if a hybrid aligns with your needs and expectations.

What is the fastest self-charging hybrid car?

The electrified BMW 745e hybrid saloon car sets itself apart as the fastest and quickest self-charging hybrid sold in the UK today. Power is paired with efficiency through BMW's drive system which also incorporates regenerative braking to charge the battery when on the go. The limited top speed of the BMW 745e xDrive is 146 mph.

What is the road tax on a self-charging hybrid?

Self-charging hybrid cars do still need to pay road tax in the UK, but the amount can be lower compared to conventional petrol or diesel cars. Because self-charging hybrids emit less CO2 than standard combustion engines, they generally fall into lower tax brackets. For example, some qualify for the £0/year tax rate under the Alternative Fuel Discount rule. However, not all self-charging hybrid models qualify for the £0 tax rate. It all depends on how much CO2 they emit per mile. 

Are self-charging hybrids good for long journeys?

Self-charging hybrid cars can be good for long journeys, but they are not as economical as plug-in hybrids. While self-charging hybrid technology certainly doesn't prevent long-distance driving, the mechanics of self-charging systems are preferable for shorter trips and city conditions. 

Which self-charging hybrid has the longest range?

The self-charging hybrid car currently sold in the UK with the longest driving range is the Mercedes-Benz A 250 e AMG Line hatchback. Mercedes claims the A 250 e can manage 43-49 miles on a full battery charge before the petrol engine kicks in. This gives it the longest EV range in its class.

Self-charging hybrid cars for sale at Wilsons Epsom

If you seek a self-charging car then our Surrey-based multi-franchise dealership is certainly the destination for your needs. We stock a wide selection of new and used hybrid vehicles from a range of world-renowned brands, such as Hyundai, Nissan, and Peugeot. 

Save thousands of pounds on a brand new model by taking advantage of our unbeatable offers, and speak to us about spreading the cost of your hybrid car thanks to our favourable finance solutions.