What is a plug-in hybrid vehicle?
A plug-in hybrid vehicle, or PHEV, is a vehicle that uses two motors: a battery-powered electric motor and an internal combustion engine (ICE) powered by an alternative fuel such as gasoline.
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How do plug-in hybrids work?
PHEVs combine a combustion engine with an electric motor, allowing them to run on battery power, gas, or a combination of both. Plug-in hybrid vehicles have a larger electric battery and a different recharging system than traditional hybrid vehicles.
Depending on the model, plug-in hybrid vehicles can drive 15-60 miles on an electric-only range, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. When the battery in a PHEV runs out, the combustion engine takes over and allows you to continue driving as long as the car has conventional fuel.
What happens when a plug-in hybrid runs out of charge?
When a PHEV runs out of charge, it will continue driving like a conventional car, using any available conventional fuel to power the ICE.
Do plug-in hybrids charge while driving?
Yes, it's possible to charge PHEVs while driving using these methods:
Regenerative braking
When the vehicle slows or brakes, the electric motor acts as a generator converting the kinetic energy of braking to electrical energy to recharge the battery.
ICE-powered generator
In some PHEVs, the engine also serves as a generator to charge the battery. If the battery runs low while the engine is running, it can generate electricity to power the electric motor or add charge to the battery. Using the ICE to charge the battery isn't the most efficient method, but it can serve to extend the battery range and improve fuel efficiency.
While a PHEV can recharge while moving, the best way to maximize the electrical benefits is plugging the battery into a wall charger or charging station, according to the U.S. Department of Energy.
How long does it take to charge a plug-in hybrid?
A PHEV may take one to six hours to fully recharge, depending on the vehicle and the type of charger used. The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) has established the EV Charging Minimum Standards Rule, providing the following charging time standards for PHEVs based on the charger type:
Level 1 chargers can take 5-6 hours to charge a PHEV
Level 2 chargers can charge a PHEV in 1-2 hours
Direct current fast charging (DCFC): Most PHEVs currently on the market don't work with fast chargers, per the U.S. DOT
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What's the difference between a PHEV and a full hybrid vehicle?
There are a few notable differences between a PHEV and a full hybrid vehicle:
Battery size: A PHEV has a larger battery than a full hybrid. Mild hybrid batteries are even smaller.
Charging method: In addition to charging through regenerative braking, a PHEV can be plugged into a wall outlet or charging station, whereas full and mild hybrids rely on regenerative braking and a gasoline engine.
Electric-only range: A PHEV has a longer electric-only range of 15-60 miles, while a full hybrid is only capable of a few miles at low speeds, per the U.S. Department of Energy.
Advantages of plug-in hybrid cars
Low running costs, low emissions, and possible tax incentives of an electric vehicle
You can commute short-range and run daily errands without ever using the gas engine
You won't have to worry about getting stranded without a charge on long trips due to the built-in ICE
Disadvantages of plug-in hybrid cars
When running exclusively on the ICE, a PHEV's heavy battery can diminish mileage compared to a non-hybrid vehicle
PHEVs usually cost more upfront than a traditional hybrid or a gas-only vehicle
EVs can be complicated to maintain, and the ICE will still require the regular maintenance that a traditional gas vehicle would
Are plug-in hybrids worth it?
Plug-in hybrids are best suited for people who drive short distances most days and take longer trips with some regularity. For instance, if your round-trip work commute is less than a PHEV's all-electric range and you regularly take weekend trips that would require using the gas-powered engine, it's worth considering a plug-in hybrid vehicle. Plug-in hybrids are also a good fit for drivers who want lower day-to-day operating costs and don't mind paying higher upfront costs.
On the other hand, if your day-to-day routine involves more driving than the vehicle's all-electric range, a traditional hybrid may offer you better fuel economy and cost savings.
If you want to make the most of your PHEV, you may want to install a 240V outlet or charging station at your house, which can also be costly but worth it in the long run.
Does a plug-in hybrid cost more to insure?
Insurance for plug-in hybrid cars may cost more than a conventional gas-powered vehicle or a fully hybrid vehicle. This is largely because PHEVs are more expensive, and their more complex equipment is more costly to repair or replace. The larger batteries of a PHEV also contribute to their higher price when compared to a full hybrid.
Keep in mind that the price of your vehicle is only one of the factors that affect your insurance cost. Your rate is also determined by your age, location, driving record, vehicle usage, your specific make and model, and more. You may be able to lower the cost of car insurance for a plug-in hybrid car by maintaining a clean driving record and qualifying for car insurance discounts.
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