Everything You Need to Know About Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV) Cars
In the world of electric mobility, you can find more and more fully electric cars, but plug-in hybrids (PHEV) also play an important role. Let’s take a closer look at exactly what PHEV means, its pros and cons, and which PHEV models are currently among the top.
What is a plug-in hybrid?
A plug-in hybrid, abbreviated as PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle), is a car that combines both a conventional combustion engine and an electric motor. What makes these cars extra special is that you can do part of your journeys fully electric, and you can charge the battery via a charging station, just like a fully electric car.
Advantages and disadvantages of a plug-in hybrid
As with any car type, there are advantages and disadvantages to PHEVs.
Advantages of a Plug-in Hybrid:
Fuel savings: When you drive fully electric, you consume no fuel, which is cost-saving compared to petrol. Electricity is generally cheaper.
Environmentally friendly: PHEVs contribute to a cleaner environment by generating fewer emissions as the combustion engine is used less frequently.
Tax advantages: PHEVs have lower CO2 emissions, resulting in less tax based on CO2 emissions, such as BPM.
Less Road Tax: Owners of PHEVs will get 50% discount on road tax until 2024.
Good Performance: PHEVs often have both an internal combustion engine and an electric motor, providing plenty of power and torque.
No ‘Range Anxiety’: With a PHEV, you don’t have to worry about running out of power because you still have a combustion engine.
Disadvantages of a Plug-in Hybrid:
Still, there are some drawbacks to PHEVs:
Weight: The addition of an electric motor and battery pack makes PHEVs heavier than regular hybrids.
Lower Efficiency in Practice: Actual electric driving range may be lower than expected, especially if the battery is not consistently charged.
Environmental Performance Depends on Use: The environmental friendliness of a PHEV depends on how often it is used electrically.
The difference between hybrid and plug-in hybrid
The difference between hybrid and plug-in hybrid is simple: a PHEV can be charged via a charging station, while a conventional hybrid cannot. PHEVs therefore have larger batteries and offer the possibility of all-electric driving.
The Best Plug-in Hybrid Cars of 2023
Wondering which PHEV models currently have the greatest electric range? Here is an overview according to the official WLTP cycle:
Mercedes-Benz C300e: 100 kilometres
Mercedes-Benz GLE 350(d)e: 98 kilometres
BMW X5 xDrive45e: 87 kilometres
Skoda Octavia iV/ Audi A3 TFSI-e: 79 kilometres
Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid/Suzuki Across: 75 kilometres
While these figures are official, it is important to note that the actual range is usually lower in practice. Nevertheless, these PHEVs are attractive options for those looking for fuel-efficient and eco-friendly mobility. Still hesitating between hybrid or electric? Or hybrid or diesel? Then check out these articles and make your choice!
