This is the decisive factor in whether to buy a plug-in hybrid

Rather than going fully electric, hybrids vehicles offer a far more affordable option and for drivers that often only make on shorter journeys, they also drive only on electricity. — BMW AG/dpa

There are now electric cars on the market that can travel up to 700 kilometres on a single charge, thanks to their giant batteries. However, for many, this emission-free way to travel is out of reach financially. Is a plug-in hybrid the right compromise?

Some hybrids – half combustion engine, half electric car – are far more affordable, and on shorter journeys, they also drive only on electricity. For longer distances, they may have to resort to fuel.