Not to be confused with a plug-in hybrid – more on this in a moment – a hybrid car uses either a diesel or petrol engine combined with an electric motor.

As a result, a hybrid car will emit less CO2 and be more economical than their combustion engine counterparts.

The best-known hybrid car in the world is the Toyota Prius, which will run on electric power at low speeds, with both engines working together when additional power is required.

Although the Prius cannot be charged using a household socket, excess power and regenerative braking can be used to recharge the batteries.

There are other hybrid car alternatives – such as the Honda Insight – which has two engines, but not the capacity to run on electric power alone.

Thanks to the their low CO2 emissions and excellent all-round abilities, hybrid cars tend to make popular company vehicles.