Guide To Plug-in Hybrid Cars

What are Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles?

A Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV) is a type of hybrid vehicle that combines an electric motor and a conventional internal combustion engine (ICE) with a rechargeable battery. PHEVs can be charged through an external power source, such as a charging station or wall outlet, and have a limited electric-only driving range.

In a PHEV, the electric motor provides power for short trips, and the ICE offers additional power for longer trips or when the battery is depleted. The battery can be recharged through regenerative braking, by the ICE, and by plugging the vehicle in. This allows PHEVs to offer the benefits of electric driving, such as low emissions and improved fuel efficiency while providing the extended driving range of a traditional gasoline-powered vehicle.

Overall, PHEVs are an excellent option for drivers who want the benefits of electric driving but also want the peace of mind that comes with a traditional combustion engine. 

How does a Plug-in Electric Hybrid Vehicle work?

A Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV) combines an electric motor, a conventional internal combustion engine (ICE), and a rechargeable battery. The battery powers the electric motor, and the battery can be charged through an external power source, such as a charging station or wall outlet.

When driving, the PHEV will use electric power from the battery for short trips or when driving at low speeds. The electric motor provides instant torque, which results in smooth and quiet acceleration. When the battery is low, the conventional ICE kicks in to provide additional power to the vehicle. This allows PHEVs to deliver the benefits of electric driving, such as low emissions and improved fuel efficiency, while also providing the extended driving range of a traditional combustion-powered vehicle.

What are the advantages of driving a PHEV?

According to the National Travel Survey, the average car journey distance in the UK is a mere 8.4 miles. An average vehicle in the UK will travel between 8,000 and 10,000 miles annually, which works out to less than 30 miles per day.

The latest eco-friendly PHEVs on the market tend to average between 20 to 50 zero-emission electric miles on a fully-charged electric battery. Perfect for the daily needs of most families and individuals!

You can lease fantastic plug-in hybrid electric cars via Fleet UK for affordable and fixed monthly prices. Simply follow the link below.

If you need help finding the right PHEV lease deal, please call one of our experienced and friendly leasing consultants on 02392 245570.

Top reasons to drive a PHEV

1) Lower fuel costs with higher savings than a conventional internal combustion engine (ICE) only vehicle. 

2) Reduced emissions improve local air quality and help the environment.

3) Versatile and practical for individuals, company car drivers and families driving short or long-distance trips.

4) Easy to charge at the convenience of your home, office or any of the 22,000 + charging locations in the UK.

5) Increased vehicle performance (acceleration and torque) and a smooth drive.

6) PHEVs are quiet when driving in electric mode and are ideal for driving in urban or stop-and-go traffic.

7) PHEVs are an excellent choice for drivers who want the benefits of an electric car but need the added range and flexibility of a traditional engine.

Are PHEVs suitable for company cars?

Plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) can be a suitable option for company cars, as they offer a balance of fuel efficiency, low emissions, and flexibility.

One of the main advantages of PHEVs for company cars is their ability to run on electric power alone for a certain distance, which can result in significant fuel savings and reduced emissions. This can be particularly beneficial for companies looking to increase their environmental credentials and meet emissions regulations.

Another advantage for PHEV company car drivers is their flexibility. PHEVs can operate in electric and hybrid modes so that you can use them for short commutes and longer trips. This can be beneficial for companies with a mix of urban and motorway driving or employees who occasionally need to make longer trips.

However, it is essential to note that the electric mode range may vary depending on the model and the battery size, and it may not be enough for some long-distance trips; in this case, the combustion engine will kick in.

In conclusion, PHEVs can be a suitable option for company cars, as they offer a balance of fuel efficiency, low emissions, and flexibility. However, companies need to consider their employees' specific needs and overall business goals before making a decision.

Would you like us to help you source a PHEV as your next company car? 

Please call us on 02392 245570 and one of our expert lease consultants will help you.

What’s the difference between a plug-in hybrid and a mild hybrid car?

The main difference between a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) and a mild hybrid electric vehicle (MHEV) is how they store and use energy from the electric motor.

A PHEV has a larger battery capacity than a mild-hybrid car, which allows it to be charged by plugging it into an external power source, such as a charging station or a household electrical outlet. The battery stores energy that can be used to power the vehicle's electric motor, which can drive the wheels or assist the internal combustion engine (ICE). This allows a PHEV to travel a certain distance on electric power alone, which can result in significant fuel savings and reduced emissions.

On the other hand, a mild-hybrid has a smaller battery capacity, and it's not designed to be charged externally. The electric motor is mostly used to assist the ICE during acceleration and to recover energy during braking, which is stored in the battery. This system is called “mild hybrid”. This can also improve fuel efficiency, but the vehicle can not be driven solely by electric power.

Another difference is that the MHEV has a Start-Stop system that turns off the combustion engine when the vehicle is stopped and turns it back on when the accelerator is pressed; this saves fuel and reduces emissions in urban driving.

In summary, a PHEV can be driven for longer distances on electric power alone and can be charged externally. A mild-hybrid, however, uses the electric motor primarily to assist the combustion engine and can not be charged externally, and the electric range is limited.

What should you consider when leasing a PHEV?

1. Range: How far can the car go on a single charge? Most PHEVs can travel between 10 and 50 miles on electricity alone.
2. Fuel economy: How efficient is the car when running on the ICE? A more efficient ICE will use less fuel.
3. Charging: How long does it take to charge the battery, and how easy is it to find charging stations?
4. Performance: How does the car perform on electricity and when the ICE is running? Consider factors such as acceleration, handling, and top speed.
5. Price: PHEVs can range from around £200 to £900 per month (ex VAT) on Business Contract Hire. Consider your budget and what you are willing to pay for a car.
6. Features: Consider what features are important to you, such as advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), connectivity, and comfort features.
7. Brand reputation: Research the reliability, safety and customer satisfaction ratings of different brands to help you make an informed decision.