When we talk about electric vehicles (EVs), a dispute is arising nowadays between plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) and battery EVs. PHEVs offers electric driving combined with the gasoline engine, but in practice, they have some issues that make them less than perfect. We think battery EVs are the better option because we have tried several different types. We have also driven battery EVs for years. In this blog we are going to explore why?
What are PHEVs?
Plug-in hybrid electric vehicles, or PHEVs, are powered by electrical outlets. Compared to standard hybrids, they offer an electric motor along with the gasoline engine and a bigger battery. This enables them to go a certain distance (sometimes about 40 miles) entirely on electricity before using the gasoline engine.
The Downside of PHEVs
Though in theory PHEVs seem fantastic, there are few disadvantages to consider. First of all, they share the same platform as their hybrid parts and are fundamentally gasoline-powered vehicles. As a result, they lack the low centre of mass and nearly equal weight distribution of battery electric vehicles (EVs), which improve handling and collision safety.
Furthermore, battery EVs have far less maintenance needs than plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs), while gasoline-powered vehicles need regular fluid changes and minor maintenance.
PHEVs as Lacklustre EVs
PHEVs are not as good as battery EVs in terms of performance. A smaller battery and electric motor limit their electric range. They lack the most important features, like regenerative braking, that improve battery-electric vehicle operation. Furthermore, they don’t weigh much less or cost much less than equivalent battery electric vehicles.
Charging Considerations
You must be able to charge a PHEV at home or at work in order to maximize its benefits. A PHEV is really just a heavier, less fuel-efficient hybrid if it is not regularly charged. On the other hand, because of their extended range, many battery electric vehicle owners are able to get by without regularly charging their cars.
The Bottom Line
At the end, PHEVs are a compromise that falls short of battery EVs’ advantages in terms of performance and the environment. They still run on gasoline, and they don’t have many of the features and design benefits that make battery electric vehicles (EVs) so desirable. There has never been a better moment to switch, thanks to the expanding infrastructure for charging EVs and their rising range. Therefore, we encourage you to reconsider your decision and switch to a battery-electric vehicle. If you’re thinking about getting a PHEV, we suggest you go home.