What Is A Plug In Hybrid Vehicle

How Do Plug-In Hybrid Vehicles Work?

A PHEV or plug-in hybrid car combines electric and petrol/diesel power. It has both a combustion engine and an electric motor. In some SUVs and four-wheel vehicles, the motor replaces the conventional rear axle. This allows the car to keep its all-wheel-drive system, with the front wheels powered by the engine and the rear by the electric motor. 

These models are often a popular choice for people looking to make the switch to electric but don’t want to go all-electric straight away. 

Plug-in hybrids can be used in all-electric mode for a short-range (typically around 35 miles). After this, the power switches over to the engine. 

What is the Difference Between Electric and Plug-In Hybrid Vehicles? 

The main difference between fully electric cars and plug-in hybrids vehicles is hybrids have a combustion engine, battery and electric motor. Electric cars only have an electric motor and battery. Battery electric vehicles run solely on electricity and must be charged via an electric charge point. 

What are the Pros and Cons of Plug-In Hybrid Vehicles?

Pros of Plug-In Hybrid Vehicles

• Lower emissions 

While plug-in hybrids are not complete emission-free, they have lower emissions than traditional petrol/diesel cars. If you stay within the EV range (typically on shorter journeys and at lower speeds), the vehicle produces no emissions. 

• Reduced fuel costs

You’ll stay within the EV range more often if you take shorter journeys. This means you’ll spend less filling up your fuel tank. 

• No range anxiety

PHEVs have a low range compared to electric cars. However, if you’re taking a longer journey, power switches to the engine, so there’s no need to worry about topping up. 

• Enhanced driving experience 

On shorter journeys, plug-in hybrids drive similar to EVs. The ride is smooth and comfortable. Plus, many models come with state-of-the-art infotainment systems. 

Cons of Plug-In Hybrid Vehicles

• Reduced performance

The car’s combustion engine and battery cells in a plug-in hybrid add extra weight. This reduces overall performance compared to petrol/diesel models. 

• Charging time

Compared to all-electric cars, charging time is typically slower. However, you can plug them in overnight ready for the next day. 

• Reduced cost savings 

To get the best cost savings from a PHEV, it needs to be charged daily to ensure optimum EV efficiency. In addition, if you consistently move into engine power, the car’s extra weight reduces fuel economy. 

• Servicing and maintenance costs 

A PHEV has the same components and maintenance requirements as a traditional car. You may also have the added cost of both mechanical and electrical servicing. 

How Much Do Plug-In Hybrid Vehicles Cost?

Plug-in hybrid vehicles are available for all budgets. Take a look at some examples of PHEV costs below:

• Kia Sportage – from £400 a month to lease
• Cupra Formentor – from £400 a month to lease
• Skoda Octavia – from £400 a month to lease
• Audi A3 – from £450 a month to lease
• BMW X2 – from £500 a month to lease
• Jaguar F-Pace – from £650 a month to lease

*prices subject to change 

What is The Range of Plug-In Hybrid Vehicles?

Plug-in hybrid vehicles have a considerably shorter range compared to all-electric cars. However, with the average journey in the UK at around eight miles, the average range of 35 miles is usually adequate for a few trips around town. 

With advancements in technology, the range is improving throughout the hybrid market. Some examples include:

• Mercedes C300 – 65-68 miles
• Skoda Octavia – 34 miles
• BMW X5 xDrive45e – 51-54 miles
• Hyundai Ioniq – 39 miles
• Ford Kuga – 35 miles

*figures shown are averages, and the range is subject to several factors, including vehicle model, driving conditions, speed and charge rates. 

Do You Have To Charge A Plug-In Hybrid Vehicle?

A PHEV gives you the option of charging up with electricity and filling up the tank with fuel. However, charging daily is required to ensure the most cost-effective use of the vehicle. 

Charging is straightforward as these models use a connector, the same as electric vehicles. The cheapest way to top up is with an at-home charge point. Your energy supplier may also offer EV tariffs to help keep costs of top-ups down for off peaking charging. While at-home charging is slower, plugging in overnight will charge the battery, ready for the next day. 

Choosing a plug-in hybrid also depends on the length of driving you do, as frequently switching to engine power uses fuel and creates emissions. The more you stay within the electric range, the better for your pocket and the environment. 

Popular Plug-In Hybrid Vehicles

Plug-in hybrid vehicles are a top choice for drivers looking to get the benefits of electric with the backup of fuel. If you’re considering this option for your next car, check out these popular models. 

1. Kia Sportage

The Sportage offers sleek, comfortable family driving with top features throughout. Its popularity in previous years means Kia has upped the aesthetics with the latest LED lighting technology and a slim version of its signature grille. Inside, you’ll find two 12.3-inch screens. There are also touch-sensitive controls for various features. 

The car has a mix of a 1.6L petrol engine and 13.8kWh battery, offering around 43-mile range and 252 mpg. 

2. Toyota RAV4 

Toyota offers a great range of plug-in hybrids, and the RAV4 is no exception. This model is an affordable family SUV but with a striking exterior. In the cabin, the interior is functional and clean with metal trim for a stylish finish. It’s also roomy with the improved infotainment system. Plus, boot space is impressive. 

Its 2.5L petrol engine and battery power provide a quiet driving experience and around 282.5 mpg. 

3. Cupra Formentor  

The Formentor is a distinctive SUV that showcases striking design features inside and out. Its angular lines complement the range of sporty features such as quad exhausts and a back window spoiler. The interior offers a digital display and 12-inch touchscreen with all the mod cons you’d expect. 

Under the hood sits a 1.4L petrol engine and an average of 35 miles on electric power. 

4. Peugeot 508

If you’re looking for a practical and comfortable drive, the Peugeot 508 is a great choice. The exterior adds an edgier twist to its previous model styling. The interior also adds an impressive touch to the overall design. Two large infotainment screens feature on the dash. Plus, there are plenty of rooms for passengers. 

Fuel economy offers around 217 mpg and an average range of 30 miles, which ideal for shorter journeys. 

5. Mercedes Benz GLA

The GLA is one of the smallest SUVs in the Mercedes range, but it still offers a practical and stylish driving experience. There’s the air of high quality and signature design, as you’d expect from the carmaker on the exterior. The inside also has a modern vibe with twin infotainment displays. The digital systems in this car are some of the best on the market. Plus, the roomy cabin is perfect for a comfortable drive. 

The range is around 38 miles, and the fuel economy is 202 mpg. 

6. Volvo XC90 

For a luxury driving experience, the Volvo XC90 appears to have nailed the brief. It has space for seven people and comes with bags of Swedish style, as you’d expect. The cabin has a minimalist dashboard design with an infotainment screen as standard in all models. With the two very rear seats down, there’s plenty of room in the boot. Plus, for its size, power and torque are impressive. 

You’ll get around 31 miles in electric mode, and it takes approximately three to eight hours to charge. 

7. Volkswagen Tiguan 

The VW Tiguan is a large and spacious SUV with a high driving position, which is popular with many drivers. The outside provides VW’s signature clean, stylish aesthetic. The inside is also a practical and straightforward design. It’s another roomy SUV with plenty of boot space. 

The hybrid model gives you around 28 miles of range, ideal for shorter trips. It’s also powered by a 1.4L petrol engine and overall claims up to 178 mpg. 

* above mpg information is based on ‘claimed’ manufacturer figures. These depend on various factors, including purely driving in electric mode and charging more frequently. So actual mpg may vary widely. 

Plug-In Hybrid Leasing With Leasing Options

Plug-in hybrid vehicles are a top option if you’re looking to take advantage of electric benefits and have the backup of fuel for longer journeys. At Leasing Options, we have a variety of plug-in hybrid models suitable for all lifestyles and budgets. You’ll find compact city cars and practical family SUVs, and everything in between. 

To find out more about plug-in hybrids, contact us today for the latest leasing deals.