Buying a car is a BIG deal. It shows you’ve worked hard and you’re basically a real, functional adult. But you can’t just pick any car. There are so many to choose from. It’s not just about how cool it looks or how fast it goes, you also need to make sure it’s dependable, cost-effective, and will last you a long time. 8List.ph got to test drive the Camry HEV. Here’s what we learned about Toyota hybrid electric vehicles.

1. You’ll spend less on gas

When we did our test drive, our fuel efficiency averaged 18.2 km/L. That’s nearly twice as efficient as our regular non-hybrid vehicle!

Hybrids use two engines: a gas engine and an electric engine. The electric motor takes over when starting the car, driving at constant speed in low and mid-speed ranges, and at full stop, minimizing fuel consumption.

2. It’s better for the environment

Reduced fuel consumption means minimal CO2 emissions. By choosing to drive a hybrid, you’re actively contributing to a cleaner and healthier environment.

3. It’s got a self-charging battery

Many Pinoys balk at the idea of switching to electric vehicles because charging stations are still a rarity in the country. But with HEVs, you won’t have to worry about that, because hybrids recharge every time you hit the brakes or come to a full stop. No plugging in required!

4. You can satisfy your need for speed

We were blown away by how fast the acceleration was on the Toyota Camry HEV. (It also had a super cool heads up display on the windshield — see photo above.)

Because hybrids have two sources of power, they can deliver surprisingly fast acceleration. The electric motor provides instant torque, boosting the car’s performance, especially during start-up.

5. Maintenance is easy!

A Toyota Hybrid doesn’t require any special maintenance. Through Periodic Maintenance Service (PMS) at your nearest Toyota dealership, you can keep your hybrid running smoothly. During these visits, the HEV filter will also be inspected and cleaned, ensuring that your car continues to perform at its best.

6. You can enjoy a calmer and quieter ride

One of the standout features of a Toyota HEV is its whisper-quiet operation. Electric motors make virtually no noise. This translates to a much quieter and calmer environment within the vehicle, letting you fully concentrate on your driving or even enjoy a peaceful conversation without the intrusive background sounds of a roaring engine.

7. There’s a Toyota Hybrid for every lifestyle

Fun fact: Toyota has the most hybrid models in the country. With so many options, they’ve got an HEV to fit any lifestyle.

Are you a city-dweller in need of a compact yet stylish ride? The Corolla Altis HEV or the chic Yaris Cross HEV might be just what you’re looking for. If you’re after something a little larger with impressive fuel efficiency, the RAV4 HEV or Corolla Cross HEV could be the perfect match. The Camry HEV offers elegance, comfort, and state-of-the-art hybrid technology, making it a prime choice for those seeking luxury and performance in one package. For an eco-friendly car with a futuristic edge, the Zenix HEV stands out with its unique design and advanced hybrid system. No matter your lifestyle or driving needs, there’s a Toyota Hybrid designed just for you.

8. NO. CODING.

Under Republic Act No. 11697, also known as the Electric Vehicle Industry Development Act or EVIDA, full hybrid vehicles are exempted from the number coding scheme. This means that with your Toyota HEV, you are free to hit the road any day of the week, without the worry of coding restrictions.

To learn more about Toyota hybrid electric vehicles, visit any Toyota dealership near you or visit https://toyota.com.ph/electrification.You can also follow Toyota Motor Philippines on Facebook and Instagram, ToyotaMotorPH on Twitter and join the Toyota PH Viber community to get regular updates.