While there is a lot of hot air being circulated about traction battery costs and life expectancy , there are very few comments on other expensive components of a typical hybrid (in Aus take the Camry Hybrid as being typical)
The facts are:
There are 3 other main components to a hybrid (+ the Traction battery) that are all more expensive to replace that the traction battery.
They are: -The Atkinson Cycle Engine -The Transaxle (which includes MG1, MG2 the ECVT and the diff) -the Investor/convertor
All 3 are more expensive to replace than the Traction battery
For example , Infinitic Aus can supply a Remanufactured Camry battery for $1650 or a new one for $2850 which, either way , are much cheaper than the other 3 main components.
The modern Gen 4 Camry Hybrid is designed to last 15 years and that includes all 4 main components ) with average driving of 20,000 kms P/A. Taxis , (regardless of whether they are ICE, Hybrid or full EV have to pass annual inspections as well as a 10000 km general safety inspection, so a hybrid Camry can go the 5 years as a taxi without replacement of major components (incl battery) That is why hybrids have taken over the taxi and limo business.......its overall cost of ownership that matters.
Traditionally taxis are pensioned off after 5 years of service .
Next time you take a taxi, ask the driver why a hybrid is the favourite car...eh?
