Hybrid or EV? A running-cost guide for Sri Lankan drivers

Hybrids remain Sri Lanka's default choice for a reason: they need no charging infrastructure, return 20–25 km per litre in traffic, and hold their value well. The main risk is the hybrid battery — ask for a health report on any car over eight years old.

EVs such as the Nissan Leaf and BYD Dolphin cost far less per kilometre if you can charge at home overnight. Older Leafs are cheap to buy but their battery capacity drops with age; check the number of battery bars and plan your daily range around it.

For most buyers driving under 60 km a day with home charging, an EV will be cheapest to run. Mixed or long-distance drivers will usually be happier with a hybrid.