Rising fuel costs are pushing more South Africans to consider hybrid vehicles rather than fully electric cars, according to a recent study by Yazi, a market research platform. The study found that 75% of respondents said global conflict was already affecting their monthly budget, while 81% described their mood as “frustrated” or “anxious”.
With current inland petrol prices of R20.30 a litre, 24% said they were already considering switching to a more fuel-efficient vehicle. Overall, 84% said they were open or very open to considering a hybrid as their next car. This trend is not surprising, given the Department of Energy‘s efforts to promote energy efficiency and reduce the country’s reliance on fossil fuels.
Why Hybrids Are Gaining Popularity
The findings point to a market that is not moving directly from petrol to battery-electric vehicles, but is instead gravitating toward hybrids as a way to reduce fuel exposure without taking on the risks associated with charging access and grid reliability. Concerns about load shedding and charging infrastructure remain central to the reluctance to adopt full EVs.
According to the study, respondents identified grid unreliability and limited charging access outside major metros as significant constraints, with concerns appearing consistently in feedback from Limpopo, Mpumalanga and KwaZulu-Natal. The data also shows that fuel pressure is already affecting daily behaviour, with respondents reporting cutting discretionary driving, combining trips, and planning routes more carefully.
Key Findings
- 84% of respondents are open to considering a hybrid as their next car
- 75% of respondents said global conflict was already affecting their monthly budget
- 24% of respondents are already considering changing vehicles at current prices
Affordability remains the biggest barrier to switching, with 38% of respondents saying lower vehicle prices were the most important factor influencing a move away from conventional petrol or diesel vehicles. This may create an opening for Chinese manufacturers, who have expanded their presence in South Africa’s hybrid and electric vehicle market with lower-priced offerings.
As the South African National Statistics Office notes, the country’s transport sector is a significant contributor to greenhouse gas emissions. The shift towards hybrid and electric vehicles could play a crucial role in reducing these emissions and promoting a more sustainable transport sector.
