MEXICO.-Sales of hybrid cars in Mexico continue to rise. According to the most recent report of the Mexican Association of the Automotive Industry (AMIA)sales of this type of vehicles they grew 17.4% compared to 2024reflecting a gradual transition towards cleaner technologies.

According to data from National Institute of Statistics and Geography (Inegi) taken up by The Universalonly in August 2025 were they sold 11,707 hybrid, plug-in hybrid and electric vehiclesof which 8,444 were conventional hybrids.

The growing interest in hybrid cars occurs in a context where the automotive industry is redefining the relationship between durability, innovation and sustainability.

A study of S&P Globalcited by the digital medium TV Busshows that electric cars tend to be changed more frequently than gasoline cars, and that hybrids are positioned as an intermediate option in terms of duration and maintenance cost.

How long are cars kept on average?

The S&P Global study reveals marked differences between types of motorization:

• Gasoline: The average seniority in the United States is 12.5 yearsand even 13.6 years if utility vehicles are excluded.
• Electrical: are replaced on average every 3.6 yearsdriven by rapid technological innovation and financing facilities.
• Hybrids: its battery usually lasts eight years or between 100,000 and 200,000 kilometersalthough its full useful life can reach 10 or 15 yearsaccording to the manufacturer and the care of the owner.

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This difference reflects the balance that hybrids offer between durability and efficiency, combining the best of both systems.

Why do gasoline cars last longer?

Gasoline cars maintain their dominance due to several factors:

• High price of new models: Many owners prefer to keep their cars rather than buy a new one.
• Robust motors and easy maintenance: Combustion systems are known for their reliability.
• Strong second-hand market: There is still high demand, especially in regions without electric charging infrastructure.
• Convenience: In rural areas or long roads, gasoline cars are still more practical due to their autonomy.

In 2022, the lack of global vehicle supply led to further prolonging the life of combustion cars, as sales fell to 13.9 million units compared to 14.6 million in 2021.

Why are electric ones replaced faster?

Unlike gasoline ones, electric ones tend to be renewed more frequently. Among the main causes are:

• Constant innovation: Every year there are improvements in autonomy, software and charging systems.
• 36-month lease plans: They make it easy to change vehicles every three years.
• Tax incentives and promotions: They make upgrading to new models attractive.
• Frequent software updates: Brands such as Tesla or BYD promote the rapid renewal of the vehicle fleet.

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Replacement cycles are not just about price; “They are the direct consequence of the pace of innovation and consumer confidence,” explains the S&P Global study.

How do hybrids stack up against both extremes?

Hybrid cars combine a internal combustion engine with a electric motor. According to Volkswagen, they are considered hybrids “when a vehicle is powered by two engines that may be of different nature: for example, an internal combustion engine and an electric motor.”

This combination allows them:

• Save gasolineespecially in urban driving.
• Reduce polluting emissions.
• Extend engine lifeby alternating use between both systems.

Its maintenance requires some care, but its batteries are designed to maintain performance for years, with warranties that cover the useful life of the vehicle.

What factors influence the life of a hybrid car?

The performance and lifespan of a hybrid depend on the use, maintenance and climate.

The portal Knauf Industries Automotive warns that:

• The high temperatures They can reduce battery efficiency and increase fuel consumption.
• The low temperatures affect the regenerative charging system.
• The frequent use of air-conditioning It also increases energy expenditure.

Practical tips

• Review periodically engine oil, coolant and brakes.
• Keep inflated tires at the recommended level.
• Check the battery voltage (12V or 48V depending on model).
• Avoid prolonged discharges or overloads.

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Impact on the market and sustainability

The rapid rotation of electric cars might seem contradictory to sustainability, but each new generation incorporates improvements in efficiency and emissions reduction.

For manufacturers, software services and updates have become new sources of incomewhile regulators face the challenge of guaranteeing infrastructure and accessibility.

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Meanwhile, the permanence of gasoline cars reflects a economic cautionand the rise of hybrids suggests that Mexico is moving towards a mobility more balancedwhere efficiency, cost and durability weigh as much as technology.