A pump attendant fills a fuel pump in Kampala. . PHOTO/Abubaker Lubowa
When it comes to choosing a car today, buyers are spoilt for choice; not just in terms of make and model, but also what powers the engine.
From the traditional petrol and diesel engines to the more advanced hybrid and fully electric vehicles (EVs), the choices can be overwhelming. So, how do you decide which option best suits your lifestyle and driving needs? Let us break it down.
What drives you?
For many drivers, engine power and performance are key factors. If you love a smooth ride and quick acceleration, petrol engines are a classic choice.
They offer power outputs ranging from 50 to 500 horsepower (HP) and torque between 50-200 pound-feet (lb-ft), making them great for daily commutes and highway drives. Plus, petrol engines rev higher, delivering an exciting burst of speed when you need it.
Diesel engines, on the other hand, are the workhorses of the automotive world. They provide superior pulling power, with torque ranging from 150-400 lb-ft, making them ideal for long-distance travel, cargo transportation, and heavy-duty vehicles. While traditionally slower in acceleration (0-100 KPH in five to 15 seconds), modern diesel engines have become more refined with turbocharging and advanced fuel systems, challenging petrol engines in terms of performance.
Then, there is the new-age powerhouse, hybrid and electric vehicles. These cars boast instant torque, meaning they accelerate swiftly without the lag associated with fuel-powered engines. Hybrid vehicles deliver between 100-400 HP and 100-300 lb-ft torque, while full EVs push the limits with 100-500 HP and an astonishing 200-700 lb-ft torque. That is why electric cars are now a major force in high-performance racing, including Formula 1 and Formula E.
Fuel economy
With rising fuel costs, efficiency is a top concern. Diesel engines take the lead in fuel economy, offering between 19-29 km per litre in city driving and up to 38 km per litre on the highway. That makes them a great choice for long-distance travellers and commercial drivers.
Petrol engines have improved over time, thanks to innovations such as turbocharging and electronic fuel injection. They deliver between 12-24 km per litre in city driving and up to 28 km per litre on the highway. While not as fuel-efficient as diesel, they make up for it with lower maintenance costs.
Hybrid cars combine the best of both worlds, achieving an impressive 26-38 km per litre in the city and up to 45 km per litre on highways. Meanwhile, full EVs eliminate fuel costs. Instead, drivers pay for electricity. In Uganda, off-peak charging costs around Shs13,720 to cover 320 km, while peak-time charging could set you back Shs30,120 for the same distance.
Range: How far can you go?
Range anxiety is a real concern for many car buyers. Diesel engines win this round, covering between 640 to1,130km on a single tank. Hybrids follow closely, managing 480-970 km, while petrol engines fall in the 480-800 km range. EVs, however, have the shortest range, averaging between 320 and 480km per full charge. In a country such as Uganda, where charging infrastructure is still developing, this is a key factor to consider.
Costs
When it comes to reliability, petrol engines generally require less maintenance and can last between 300,000 and 1,000,000km if well maintained. Diesel engines, though efficient, work under extreme conditions, which can lead to expensive repairs if not serviced regularly with high-quality lubricants and fuel additives. Neglecting maintenance on a diesel engine could result in costly breakdowns at around 200,000 km.
Hybrid vehicles strike a balance, offering both fuel efficiency and range without the stress of full EV charging limitations. However, buying an old hybrid or EV can be risky, as battery replacement costs are high. While new hybrid and EV batteries come with warranties of up to 15 years, replacing an expired battery could cost more than the car itself.
On the plus side, full EVs have the lowest maintenance costs, with only around 20 moving parts compared to the thousands in conventional engines. That means fewer things can go wrong, translating to long-term savings.
The environmental impact
As the world moves towards greener alternatives, emissions are a key concern. Diesel engines are the biggest polluters, emitting between 160-225 grammes of carbon dioxide (CO2) per kilometre, followed by petrol engines at 150-250 g/km. Hybrid cars are cleaner, with emissions as low as 50-150 g/km.
Full EVs take the crown with zero tailpipe emissions, making them the best choice for eco-conscious drivers.
Ultimately, the best choice depends on your driving habits, budget, and long-term goals.
VERDICT
•Diesel engines are best for long-distance drivers and commercial use due to their superior fuel economy and range. •Petrol engines offer reliability and lower maintenance costs, making them ideal for daily commuters.
•Hybrid cars provide an excellent balance of performance, efficiency, and lower emissions.
•Full EVs are perfect for those who prioritise environmental sustainability and minimal maintenance, provided they have access to charging stations.
