Plug-in hybrids have been around for over a quarter-century, but they can be confusing for shoppers. They offer the benefits of both regular hybrids and electric cars, yet are neither one nor the other.
When plugged in to charge its battery, a plug-in-hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) can operate as an EV for 20 to 50 miles, providing excellent fuel economy on daily driving. However, it also has an engine and gas tank that provide additional range after the electric-only miles are used up, making them excel on extended road trips.
The PHEV battery has a lower capacity than that of a battery-electric vehicle, but it's still fast to recharge, often in as few as two or three hours from a 240-volt charging station. Despite their benefits, plug-in hybrids can be viewed as a waste of pricey technology if not used correctly.
In fact, many owners find they enjoy the silent running of a PHEV in all-electric mode and blended fuel economy. However, some may find plugging in an added burden they don't want to undertake.
S. roads are recharged or how often.
Makers are not required to report the data on plugging-in behavior they aggregate via telematics, and several manufacturers are silent on this topic.
While plug-in hybrids offer excellent fuel economy and benefits for owners, their complexity can lead to reliability issues, with many complaints related to using additional features. To get the most out of a PHEV, it's essential to understand how they work and use them correctly.
