Five things to know before buying a plug-in hybrid vehicle (PHEV)
What you need to know before you make the switchHybrids are gaining popularity faster than the latest viral TikTok tiramisu car hack. They provide an excellent transition to fully electric vehicles while eliminating range anxiety.
By combining petrol and electric power, PHEVs offer significant fuel savings, making them an increasingly attractive option for Australian drivers. But is a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) the right choice for you?
Here are five key things you should know before making the switch.
1. What is a PHEV?
A PHEV is a blend of a conventional self-charging hybrid, like the Toyota RAV4, and a fully electric vehicle (EV), such as the Tesla Model 3. It features both an internal combustion engine and an electric motor, along with a larger battery pack that enables extended electric-only driving. Unlike traditional hybrids, a PHEV must be plugged in to recharge its battery fully.
2. Electric range: How far can you go?
PHEVs offer more battery-powered range than conventional hybrids, making them ideal for daily commutes. The average Australian commute is under 40km, and most PHEVs provide between 50-100km of pure electric range.
This means you could potentially go weeks without refueling if you recharge nightly. For example:
- Jaecoo J7: 106km electric range, 1,200km total range
- BMW 330e: 57km electric range, 440km total range
- BYD Shark 6 Ute: 80km electric range, 800km total range
PHEVs also benefit from regenerative braking, which recaptures energy while driving, but this alone won’t keep the battery fully charged. Regular charging is essential to maximize efficiency.
3. Charging time: What to expect
Like EVs, PHEV charging times vary depending on battery size and charging capability. For instance:
- Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV: Takes 6.5 hours to charge a 20kWh battery using an AC wall charger (3.7kW charging rate).
- Jaecoo J7: Charges in 2 hours 40 minutes with an AC wallbox at 6.6kW.
Always check a PHEV’s charging specifications to ensure it suits your needs. Faster charging means less downtime and more savings on fuel.
4. You must plug it in to reap the benefits
While a PHEV has a petrol engine as backup, failing to charge it regularly negates the advantages. Without plugging in, you’re essentially driving a heavier hybrid with a battery you’re not using. To make the most of your PHEV, develop a habit of charging it overnight, just like your phone.
Also, install a home wall charger for convenience and ensure you have access to public chargers if home charging isn’t an option. If you lack home charging capabilities, a conventional hybrid may be a better option for fuel efficiency.
5. Power and performance
PHEVs aren’t just about fuel savings—they can also deliver serious performance. Many high-performance car brands are integrating hybrid technology to enhance power and efficiency. Some examples include:
- Lamborghini Revuelto – A hybrid supercar combining a powerful engine with high-torque electric motors.
- Mercedes-AMG E53 Hybrid – A performance PHEV offering an exhilarating driving experience.
Gone are the days of sluggish hybrids; modern PHEVs bring efficiency and excitement together.
With more PHEV models entering the Australian market, buyers have more choices than ever. If you’re considering making the switch, research the options carefully and ensure you have the right charging setup to maximize the benefits.
Related: What’s the difference between hybrid, plug-in hybrid and EV?
Related: Why can’t I match my plug-in hybrid’s fuel economy numbers?
Related: Five surprising things I learnt about owning my first hybrid car
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