More people are switching to hybrid and fully electric cars every day. The quiet motors, instant torque, and lower running costs make them ideal for city life. They’re smooth, efficient, and surprisingly fun to drive in crowded streets or tight parking spots.

But driving these cars well takes a slightly different mindset. The habits you’ve built over years of petrol driving don’t always fit cleanly with how hybrids and EVs work. A few small adjustments can make a big difference to how far you go on a charge or how much fuel you save in hybrid mode.

Why city driving is ideal for hybrids and EVs

Cities like Melbourne show how quickly cleaner driving is taking hold. There are car-share lanes, plenty of public chargers, and new traffic rules that encourage low-emission vehicles.

If you’re visiting or testing greener driving habits, you can book a hybrid or EV through a reliable rental car provider in Melbourne. The Collins Street hire locations, for instance, offer smaller hybrids and efficient sedans so drivers can try out more sustainable habits right away.

Plan your trips the smart way

Trip planning matters more when you’re driving a hybrid or electric vehicle. Range depends on things like traffic, speed, weather, and even how often you use the heater or air conditioning.

According to the U.S. Department of Energy guidance, smoother routes with fewer full stops help an EV maintain range more effectively. Roads with gentler speeds also reduce sudden acceleration and braking, which saves both energy and wear on your car.

Before setting off, preheat or pre-cool the cabin while the car’s still plugged in, rather than draining the battery after you leave. Most navigation apps now show charging stops, rest areas, and real-time traffic, so you can plan ahead easily.

Mapping your lunch break or rest stop near a charger means you can top up while you relax, instead of worrying later about finding a plug.

Planning helps hybrids, too. The petrol engine runs best at steady speeds, while the electric motor takes over in slow zones. In stop-start city traffic, hybrids glide quietly on battery power, saving fuel and cutting emissions near schools or pedestrian areas.

Leaving just five minutes earlier can also make a real difference. You’ll hit less traffic, drive more calmly, and use less fuel or battery power. Small changes like shorter parking hunts or smoother acceleration may seem minor, but together they save range and help keep city air cleaner.

Drive smoothly to save power

How you drive affects energy use more than you might think. Sudden acceleration floods the motor with power, and harsh braking wastes that energy as heat. Smooth, steady driving helps you get more out of every charge or litre.

Here’s how to make that happen:

• Ease onto the accelerator for the first few seconds after a light turns green.

• Hold a steady speed instead of speeding past cars and braking hard.

• Look two or three vehicles ahead and lift your foot early to let regenerative braking slow the car.

Regenerative braking, or “regen,” converts motion back into stored energy instead of losing it as heat. Many hybrids and EVs show live regen data on the dashboard, so you can watch how small changes in timing make a difference.

Tyre pressure also affects efficiency. Check levels when tyres are cold, following the numbers on the door placard rather than the tyre sidewall. And clear out heavy boot clutter or unused roof racks — extra weight makes the motor work harder.

Respect charging etiquette and battery health

Public charging points are growing quickly across cities, and it’s important to use them considerately. The Victorian transport guidance recommends moving your car once charging tapers off, so others can plug in without long waits. That small act of courtesy keeps shared chargers accessible and in good working order.

Avoid letting your battery run close to zero unless absolutely necessary. Most EV makers suggest charging to around 80% for daily use and saving full charges for long trips. This simple habit helps preserve long-term battery health.

Fast chargers are convenient but generate more heat. Using them every day can shorten battery life slightly, so it’s best to mix in slower overnight or workplace charging when you can. Drivers without home setups can alternate between quick top-ups and slower public sessions to balance convenience and care.

Match your car to your journey

Most city trips are short — errands, school runs, or short commutes across town. In these cases, compact hybrids and small EVs are perfect. They’re nimble, easy to park, and more efficient than larger vehicles.

Choosing a car that fits your journey means you’re not wasting energy moving unnecessary weight. For longer drives, such as weekend trips down the Great Ocean Road, a larger hybrid or touring EV makes more sense.

Short-term car hire is a great way to find what works best for you. You can test different models, explore dash menus, and learn how regen feels without committing to a long-term finance deal. You’ll also figure out which charge ports are most common in your area and what adapters you might need.

Trying different vehicles helps build better habits, too. You’ll naturally get used to smoother coasting, careful battery management, and planning ahead for charging.

Think before every trip

Sometimes the greenest drive is the one you don’t take. For short distances, walking, cycling, or hopping on the tram saves time, money, and energy.

Short car trips use extra battery power just to warm up the system, so skipping those small journeys leaves more charge for trips that actually need it.

The takeaway: cleaner driving is in your hands

Cleaner travel starts with simple habits, not just the latest technology.

Plan your routes. Drive gently. Pick the right size car for each trip. And respect charging etiquette so others can do the same.

Each small choice adds up — less stress, lower running costs, and fewer emissions. Whether you’re renting for a few days or owning your first hybrid or EV, these habits will help you drive smarter and cleaner every time.