Does the Corolla Hybrid Have Subsidies?
2 Answers
The Corolla Hybrid does not qualify for subsidies. National subsidies are allocated to new energy vehicle models that require external charging, while the hybrid (dual-engine) system automatically charges and does not require external power, thus excluding it from the new energy category and making it ineligible for subsidies. Below are relevant details: 1. During the transition from fuel-powered vehicles to electric vehicles, there are two transitional models: HEV and PHEV. HEVs cannot be externally charged, have small battery capacities, lack pure electric mode, and their fuel-saving potential is nearly maxed out. In contrast, PHEVs, being closer to EVs, can be externally charged, allowing for greater fuel savings when charging infrastructure is available. 2. Many HEV patent technologies are held by Toyota. Subsidizing HEVs would essentially subsidize Toyota, and producing under their patents would increase the cost of domestic HEVs. 3. For three consecutive years, Sino-Japanese relations have been severely strained, and Toyota, unlike Tesla, has not relinquished its patents. Providing large subsidies for HEV sales could trigger political issues. 4. The most critical factor is that HEVs do not require external charging. The future of automotive electrification depends on charging networks. Subsidizing HEVs would quickly dampen China's emerging charging infrastructure boom, delaying the widespread adoption of new energy vehicles by at least a decade. Clearly, subsidizing HEVs would hinder the promotion and adoption of EVs and PHEVs, which is why China has not classified HEVs as new energy vehicles.
Thinking of buying a Corolla hybrid? Whether it qualifies for subsidies depends on specific policies. At the national level, the focus is currently on pure electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles, with no nationwide purchase subsidies for regular hybrids at the moment. However, the 2023 vehicle purchase tax reduction policy can save you nearly 10,000 yuan, and the Corolla hybrid with its 1.8L engine just falls within the discount threshold. Here's a tip: visit multiple 4S dealerships to inquire, as some dealers and local governments offer purchase gift packages. For example, Shenzhen issued new energy consumption vouchers last year, with a maximum discount of 5,000 yuan. Additionally, some cities issue green license plates for hybrid vehicles. Hangzhou, for instance, allows non-plug-in hybrids to use regional license plates, making it much easier to obtain than regular blue plates. It's advisable to call the local vehicle management office directly to confirm the latest policies, as subsidy changes have been frequent recently.
