Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicles

There's a saying in the automotive industry: "Hybrids are the gateway to an electric vehicle."

Customers want to be more electrified than what they have so they can save money and reduce emissions. No type of vehicle is this more true than a Plug-In Hybrid.

A Plug-In Hybrid (PHEV) uses both an Internal Combustion Engine and an electric drivetrain to power the vehicle, enabling it to travel some distance, usually between 30 and 80 kilometres, on the battery alone.

The battery is much larger than in a normal hybrid but significantly smaller than in a vehicle with an electric-only drivetrain.

For many people who are worried about charging outside of the home (and as of 2022, they're not wrong to be concerned), or want to do some regular long-distance travel, this may be an ideal choice. They can drive around town in full electric mode, cutting down on smog pollution in the city, and charge the vehicle with just their 110V home outlet.

If they venture outside the city, the gasoline engine can be used like a traditional vehicle and they can take advantage of a very established network of gasoline stations.

This means that customers can become comfortable with BEVs, yet alleviate any BEV charging anxiety. It's an electric vehicle with a backup plan.

However, what we often hear is that most PHEV owners look to maximize their journeys on electric-only as it significantly reduces their running costs. They find that there may only be a few days per month when they actually use the engine and that a backup plan isn't needed.

PHEV is a great choice for anyone who wants to test the waters with BEV. One thing is almost certain: PHEV drivers will likely go full electric in a few years, and with improved charging infrastructure, they'll be ready to go.