For eco-conscious car buyers in India, strong hybrid vehicles offer a compelling combination of impressive fuel efficiency and lower emissions compared to traditional gasoline-powered cars. However, the upfront cost of these vehicles can sometimes be a deterrent. In a move to incentivize the adoption of strong hybrid and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs), the state government of Uttar Pradesh has implemented a waiver on the Road Tax (RTO) for these categories. This tax break translates to significant savings for Uttar Pradesh residents considering a strong hybrid car purchase.
Uttar Pradesh vs. New Delhi: A Price Comparison for Strong Hybrid Cars
Let’s delve into the specifics and compare the on-road prices of popular strong hybrid cars in Lucknow, the capital of Uttar Pradesh, with their counterparts in New Delhi. It’s important to remember that while the RTO tax is waived in Uttar Pradesh, registration and hypothecation charges still apply (Rs 600 and Rs 1,500 respectively).
Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder
The Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder, a rebadged version of the Maruti Grand Vitara, is the most affordable strong hybrid car currently available in India. Both models share the same 1.5-liter petrol-hybrid powertrain delivering a combined output of 116 PS and mated to an e-CVT automatic gearbox. The Hyryder boasts a claimed fuel efficiency of 27.97 kmpl, making it an attractive option for fuel-conscious drivers.
| Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder Variant | On-Road Price Lucknow (in Lakhs) | On-Road Price New Delhi (in Lakhs) | Price Difference (Lucknow – Delhi) |
|---|---|---|---|
| S Hybrid | 17.55 | 19.09 | -1.54 |
| G Hybrid | 19.64 | 21.36 | -1.72 |
| V Hybrid | 21.20 | 23.45 | -2.25 |
As you can see, the price difference for the Hyryder variants in Lucknow compared to New Delhi ranges from Rs 1.54 lakh to Rs 2.25 lakh, a significant saving thanks to the RTO tax waiver.
Maruti Grand Vitara
The Maruti Grand Vitara offers two strong hybrid variants, both powered by the same 1.5-liter petrol-hybrid system found in the Hyryder. This powertrain delivers a combined output of 116 PS and comes paired with an e-CVT gearbox.
| Maruti Grand Vitara Variant | On-Road Price Lucknow (in Lakhs) | On-Road Price New Delhi (in Lakhs) | Price Difference (Lucknow – Delhi) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Zeta Plus | 19.08 | 21.74 | -2.66 |
| Alpha Plus | 20.62 | 23.43 | -2.81 |
Similar to the Hyryder, the Grand Vitara variants in Lucknow benefit from a price advantage compared to their New Delhi counterparts. The savings range from Rs 2.66 lakh to Rs 2.81 lakh due to the absence of RTO tax in Uttar Pradesh.
Honda City Hybrid
The Honda City Hybrid stands out as the sole sedan on this list and represents Honda’s first foray into the strong hybrid segment in India. This model features a 1.5-liter petrol-hybrid powertrain generating 126 PS and 253 Nm of torque, mated to an e-CVT gearbox.
| Honda City Hybrid Variant | On-Road Price Lucknow (in Lakhs) | On-Road Price New Delhi (in Lakhs) | Price Difference (Lucknow – Delhi) |
|---|---|---|---|
| V | 20.00 | 21.89 | -1.89 |
| ZX | 21.62 | 23.59 | -1.97 |
The price difference for the Honda City Hybrid variants in Lucknow compared to New Delhi is between Rs 1.89 lakh and Rs 1.97 lakh, offering a notable cost advantage for Uttar Pradesh buyers.
Maruti Invicto
The Maruti Invicto is essentially a rebadged version of the Toyota Innova Hycross. However, unlike the Innova Hycross, the Invicto comes with a single strong hybrid powertrain option. This 2.0-liter engine delivers a combined output of 152 PS and up to 188 Nm of torque, paired with an e-CVT gearbox.
FAQs
Q: What is a strong hybrid car?
A: Strong hybrid cars combine a gasoline engine with an electric motor, offering superior fuel efficiency and lower emissions compared to traditional gasoline-powered vehicles. The electric motor can also provide short bursts of electric-only driving.
Q: Why are strong hybrid cars more expensive than gasoline-powered cars?
A: Strong hybrid technology involves additional components that increase the initial price of the vehicle.
Q: Does the RTO tax waiver in Uttar Pradesh apply to all hybrid cars?
A: No, the waiver is specifically for strong hybrid and plug-in hybrid vehicles.
Q: Should I consider buying a strong hybrid car?
A: Strong hybrid cars can be a good option if you prioritize fuel efficiency and environmental impact. However, factors like your driving habits, budget, and access to charging infrastructure should also be considered.
