The Indian automotive landscape is witnessing a shift towards greener mobility solutions. While electric vehicles (EVs) have garnered significant attention, strong hybrid cars are steadily carving their niche. Uttar Pradesh (UP) has taken a bold step to incentivize the adoption of these eco-friendly vehicles by waiving the Road Tax (RTO) tax for strong hybrids and plug-in hybrids.
This move by the UP government is a significant boost for strong hybrid cars in India. Previously, these technologically advanced vehicles lacked government incentives, unlike their electric counterparts. Let’s delve deeper into this development and explore the top 5 strong hybrid car options available in the Indian market, focusing on the potential cost savings for buyers in Uttar Pradesh.
UP Waives RTO Tax for Strong Hybrids: A Boon for Eco-Conscious Drivers
The RTO tax exemption for strong hybrids in UP applies to vehicles priced above Rs 10 lakh (ex-showroom). This translates to a significant cost saving for potential buyers, with estimates suggesting savings of up to Rs 3.1 lakh. It’s important to note that registration and hypothecation charges still apply, but the elimination of RTO tax makes strong hybrids a much more attractive proposition in UP.
Here’s a breakdown of the RTO tax exemption for Top 5 strong hybrid cars in UP:
- Previous RTO Tax: For vehicles exceeding Rs 10 lakh (ex-showroom), the RTO tax was typically 10%.
- Current Scenario: UP has waived off the RTO tax for strong hybrid and plug-in hybrid vehicles.
This policy change is expected to encourage the adoption of strong hybrid technology, promoting a more sustainable transportation ecosystem in UP.
Top 5 Strong Hybrid Cars in India: Unpacking the Options
With the RTO tax exemption in UP making strong hybrids more affordable, let’s explore the top 5 contenders in the Indian market:
1. Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder:
- Segment: Compact SUV
- Powertrain: 1.5-litre petrol engine with strong hybrid system
- Claimed Mileage: 27.97 kmpl
- Key Features: 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system, digital driver’s display, wireless phone charger, panoramic sunroof, heads-up display, airbags, electronic stability control (ESC), 360-degree camera.
- Potential RTO Tax Saving in UP: Up to Rs 2.02 lakh (depending on variant)
2. Maruti Grand Vitara:
- Segment: Compact SUV (rebadged Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder)
- Powertrain: Identical to Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder
- Claimed Mileage: Identical to Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder
- Key Features: Similar to Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder with some design and interior theme variations.
- Potential RTO Tax Saving in UP: Up to Rs 1.99 lakh (depending on variant)
3. Honda City Hybrid:
- Segment: Sedan (Only strong hybrid sedan in the mass market)
- Powertrain: 1.5-litre petrol engine with strong hybrid system and e-CVT
- Claimed Mileage: 26.5 kmpl
- Key Features: 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, automatic climate control, sunroof, airbags, electronic parking brake, advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) with features like lane keep assist, high beam assist, autonomous emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control.
- Potential RTO Tax Saving in UP: Up to Rs 2.05 lakh (depending on variant)
4. Toyota Innova Hycross:
- Segment: MPV (Available in 6-seater and 7-seater options)
- Powertrain: 2.0-litre petrol engine with strong hybrid system and e-CVT
- Claimed Mileage: 23.34 kmpl
- Key Features: 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system, digital driver’s display, dual-zone climate control, panoramic sunroof, airbags, vehicle stability management (VSM), 360-degree camera, and ADAS features.
- Potential RTO Tax Saving in UP: Up to Rs 3.09 lakh (depending on variant)
5. Maruti Invicto:
- Segment: MPV (rebadged Toyota Innova Hyryder)
- Powertrain: Identical to Toyota Innova Hycross
- Claimed Mileage: Identical to Toyota Innova Hycross
- Key Features: Similar to Toyota Innova Hycross with some design and interior theme variations.
FAQs
Q: What is a strong hybrid car?
A: A strong hybrid car combines a gasoline engine with an electric motor, offering the ability to operate on both gasoline and electric power. Unlike mild hybrids, strong hybrids can travel significant distances in electric mode.
Q: Does the RTO tax exemption in UP apply to all hybrid cars?
A: No, the exemption applies specifically to strong hybrid and plug-in hybrid vehicles. Mild hybrids are not included.
Q: Is buying a strong hybrid car a good idea?
A: Whether a strong hybrid is a good choice depends on your individual needs. They offer advantages like the convenience and wider range options compared to EVs, but may not be as environmentally friendly.
Q: When will other states offer RTO tax exemptions for strong hybrids?
A: It’s uncertain if other states will follow UP’s lead. The debate regarding nationwide RTO tax exemption is ongoing.
