
Plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) are a combination of gasoline and electric vehicles, with larger battery packs than hybrid electric vehicles. They can be charged using a wall outlet or charging equipment, and use both gasoline and electricity as fuel sources. PHEVs have two fuel economy values: one for when the vehicle operates primarily on electricity and one for when it operates only on gasoline. They are often referred to as two cars in one and can be charged at home or at public charging stations.
How are Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles made?
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Type of Vehicle | Plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) are a combination of gasoline and electric vehicles. |
| Power Sources | PHEVs use both gasoline and electricity as fuel sources. |
| Battery | PHEVs have a rechargeable battery pack that can be charged via a charging cable plugged into an external electric power source or through regenerative braking. |
| Engine | PHEVs have an internal combustion engine that can be powered by gasoline or diesel. |
| Electric Motor | PHEVs use an electric motor powered by the battery to drive the vehicle's wheels. |
| Fuel Economy | PHEV fuel economy depends on the distance driven between battery charges. They have two fuel economy values: one for when the vehicle operates primarily on electricity (MPGe) and one for when it operates only on gasoline (MPG). |
| Emissions | PHEVs may produce lower levels of emissions, depending on the electricity source and how often the vehicle is operated in all-electric mode. |
| Cost | PHEVs are generally more expensive than similar conventional and hybrid vehicles but can provide cost savings through fuel efficiency and tax credits. |
| Range | PHEVs typically have driving ranges comparable to gasoline vehicles. The electric range depends on the model and can vary from 20 to 60 miles on a full battery. |
| Charging | PHEVs can be charged using a standard electrical wall outlet or dedicated charging equipment. Charging at home or public charging stations is common. |
| Configurations | PHEVs have different configurations, including parallel, series, and series-parallel hybrids. |
| Examples | Some examples of PHEVs include the Chevrolet Volt, Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV, BYD Auto models, and BMW i3. |
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What You'll Learn
- Plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) can be charged using a wall outlet or charging equipment
- PHEVs have two fuel economy values: one for electricity and one for gasoline
- PHEVs can be charged using regenerative braking
- PHEVs are predominantly passenger cars, but there are also plug-in hybrid variants of sports cars, commercial vehicles, and more
- PHEVs may produce lower levels of emissions, depending on the electricity source and how often the vehicle is operated in all-electric mode

Plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) can be charged using a wall outlet or charging equipment
Plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) are a combination of gasoline and electric vehicles. They have a battery, an electric motor, a gasoline tank, and an internal combustion engine. PHEVs can be charged using a wall outlet or charging equipment, by the internal combustion engine, or through regenerative braking. The vehicle typically runs on electric power until the battery is nearly depleted, and then the car automatically switches over to using the internal combustion engine.
PHEVs have two fuel economy values: one for when the vehicle operates primarily on electricity and one for when it operates only on gasoline. The electric motor in a PHEV is powered by the traction battery pack, which can be charged using a wall outlet or charging equipment. The wall outlet used for charging can be a standard 120 V outlet, or a dedicated 240 V outlet or charging system for faster charging.
The term "plug-in hybrid" refers to a hybrid vehicle that can be charged from a standard electrical wall socket. Most people get an external home charging unit (often called a wallbox) fitted to their house or garage for this purpose. PHEVs can also be charged using charging equipment, which may be available at the workplace or at public charging stations.
PHEVs can support longer and more frequent all-electric range driving, and their electric motors often have higher power output and torque. They are more responsive during acceleration and have lower operating costs. The use of electricity from the grid to run the vehicle some or all of the time reduces operating costs and fuel use compared to conventional vehicles.
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PHEVs have two fuel economy values: one for electricity and one for gasoline
Plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) are a combination of gasoline and electric vehicles. They have a battery, an electric motor, a gasoline tank, and an internal combustion engine. PHEVs can be charged using a wall outlet or charging equipment, by the internal combustion engine, or through regenerative braking. The vehicle typically runs on electric power until the battery is nearly depleted, after which the car automatically switches over to using the internal combustion engine.
PHEVs have two fuel economy values: one for when the vehicle operates primarily on electricity (listed in terms of MPGe) and one for when the vehicle operates only on gasoline (listed as MPG). This is because the fuel economy of PHEVs is highly dependent on the load carried and the duty cycle. The electric motor is used to drive the wheels, while the internal combustion engine is used to generate electricity for the motor.
The fuel economy of PHEVs can be estimated by the EPA, which provides a fuel economy estimate for gasoline-only operation and an estimate for electric-only or gas-and-electric operation, both for combined city-highway driving. The fuel economy of PHEVs can also be sensitive to driving style, driving conditions, and accessory use. For example, factors like cold weather, accessory use (such as AC), and high-speed driving can lower the vehicle's range.
PHEVs can support longer and more frequent all-electric range driving, and their electric motors often have higher power output and torque. They are also more responsive during acceleration and have lower operating costs. The larger battery packs of PHEVs make it possible to drive moderate distances using just electricity (about 15 to 60-plus miles in current models), commonly referred to as the electric range of the vehicle.
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PHEVs can be charged using regenerative braking
Plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) can be charged using regenerative braking, which captures the kinetic energy from braking and converts it into electrical power that charges the vehicle's high-voltage battery. This process is more efficient than conventional braking systems, where the kinetic energy is lost as heat. By capturing and reusing the braking energy, PHEVs can extend their electric driving range and reduce the time spent charging.
Regenerative braking is a common feature in hybrid and electric vehicles, including PHEVs. It works by using the electric motor to create an electromagnetic force that opposes the forward motion of the wheels, resulting in deceleration. This process allows the motor to act as a generator, capturing the energy that would otherwise be lost during braking and converting it into electrical power. This electrical power is then stored in the vehicle's battery pack, providing additional range for the vehicle.
The strength of regenerative braking can often be adjusted to suit different driving conditions. For example, a weaker regenerative braking force might be preferred for cruising on a motorway, while stronger regenerative braking can be advantageous in stop-and-go traffic. This adjustability allows drivers to optimise their braking for efficiency and performance.
Regenerative braking also assists the traditional braking system in PHEVs. By helping to slow down the vehicle, it reduces the burden on the physical brake discs and calipers, potentially extending the time between servicing. However, it is important to note that regenerative braking does not replace the need for traditional brakes entirely, and regular brake inspections are still necessary for safety and maintenance.
Overall, the ability to charge PHEVs using regenerative braking contributes to their efficiency, flexibility, and reduced charging times. This technology plays a crucial role in maximising the electric benefits of PHEVs and can help reduce emissions, depending on the electricity source and driving mode.
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PHEVs are predominantly passenger cars, but there are also plug-in hybrid variants of sports cars, commercial vehicles, and more
Plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) are predominantly passenger cars, but there are also plug-in hybrid variants of sports cars, commercial vehicles, and more. These include SUVs, vans, utility trucks, buses, trains, motorcycles, mopeds, military vehicles, and boats.
PHEVs are equipped with a rechargeable battery pack that can be directly replenished via a charging cable plugged into an external electric power source. They can also be charged internally by their on-board internal combustion engine-powered generator. PHEVs use batteries to power an electric motor and another fuel, such as gasoline or diesel, to power an internal combustion engine. The vehicle typically runs on electric power until the battery is nearly depleted, after which the car automatically switches over to using the internal combustion engine.
PHEVs can support longer and more frequent all-electric range driving, and their electric motors often have higher power output and torque. They are also more responsive during acceleration and have lower operating costs. The flexibility of being able to switch to a gasoline/diesel engine is especially useful in areas lacking sufficient charging infrastructure.
Some examples of PHEVs include the BMW 330e, the Range Rover Sport P550e, the Honda Clarity Plug-In Hybrid, the Chevrolet Volt, and the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV.
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PHEVs may produce lower levels of emissions, depending on the electricity source and how often the vehicle is operated in all-electric mode
Plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) are equipped with a rechargeable battery pack that can be directly replenished via a charging cable plugged into an external electric power source. They can also be charged internally by their on-board internal combustion engine-powered generator. PHEVs use batteries to power an electric motor and another fuel, such as gasoline or diesel, to power an internal combustion engine.
The frequency of operating a PHEV in all-electric mode impacts its emissions. PHEVs produce zero tailpipe emissions when running on electricity but may produce emissions when using the internal combustion engine. Consistently charging the vehicle and driving within its all-electric range can help maximize the electric benefits and reduce emissions.
PHEVs have larger battery packs than conventional hybrid electric vehicles, enabling them to drive moderate distances using just electricity, typically about 15 to 60-plus miles in current models. This "electric range" allows drivers to utilize all-electric power for urban driving or short commutes, with the flexibility to revert to the combustion engine when needed.
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Frequently asked questions
A plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) is a type of hybrid electric vehicle that can be charged from a standard electrical wall socket or charging equipment, as well as by its on-board internal combustion engine-powered generator.
PHEVs have two sources of power: an electric motor and a gasoline engine. The vehicle typically runs on electric power until the battery is nearly depleted, and then the car automatically switches over to use the internal combustion engine.
PHEVs have lower operating costs and fuel use compared to conventional vehicles. They also produce lower levels of emissions, depending on the electricity source and how often the vehicle is operated in all-electric mode.
Some examples of PHEVs include the Chevrolet Volt, BMW i3, Toyota Prius, and Ford Escape Hybrid.















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