Hybrid vs. mild hybrid vs. plug-in – what’s the difference?
If the world of electric and hybrid power is new to you, you may find it confusing because there are lots of different types
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There are so many options available when it comes to switching to electric power. Not only is there the well-known all-electric power but there are also hybrid, mild-hybrid and self-charging hybrid options too.
Hybrid power is really attractive because it offers the best of both worlds in terms of fuel efficiency and electric power.
When it comes to hybrid cars, there are three main types: plug-in hybrid (PHEV); mild hybrid (MHEV); and a full/self-charging hybrid (HEV).
This guide explains:
What are the different types of hybrid cars?
The benefits of hybrid cars
Things to consider about buying a hybrid car
Is it worth buying a hybrid car in the UK?
Here’s what each hybrid setup does and why you should think about getting one.
What is a plug-in hybrid (PHEV)?
A plug-in hybrid car is essentially a car that can run on either engine or electric motor power.
There’s a clue in the name as to how it’s charged – you plug it in. You can’t drive very far on electric power alone, with the average being between 30-50 miles at the time of writing.
What makes these so great is that when the electric motor runs out of juice from the onboard battery pack, the car automatically switches to the petrol or diesel engine so you’re not left stranded on the roadside.
What are the pros of a plug-in hybrid car?
It’s easy to switch between electric and engine power
You can use electric power in the city but engine power in the countryside or on longer journeys
There’s no range anxiety because the engine is always there as a backup
You get zero-emissions commuting if you can drive to work and back on EV-only mode
What are the cons of a plug-in hybrid car?
You’ll need to charge up the battery to make it worthwhile
The extra weight from the battery means you’re lugging around more weight, reducing your fuel efficiency
Smaller engines mean less grunt when the electric power runs out
What is a mild hybrid (MHEV)?
Many people often assume a mild hybrid is just the same as a standard hybrid car, but this isn’t the case. The main difference is that while a normal hybrid car can run on electric power alone, a mild hybrid cannot.
The mild hybrid system just works alongside the petrol engine to provide a boost of performance and economy.
What are the pros of a mild hybrid car?
Mild hybrids offer lower emissions than full-fat hybrid cars
You don’t need to plug mild hybrids in to charge
They offer more grunt on acceleration
What are the cons of a mild hybrid car?
These cars produce more pollutants than a normal hybrid because there’s rarely an EV-only mode
The engine is always in use to drive the car
They’re not as fuel efficient as plug-in hybrids
What is a self-charging/full hybrid (HEV)?
The most common choice when it comes to buying a hybrid electric vehicle is the simple yet very effective full hybrid/self-charging hybrid, and in this system the engine and the electric motor work together.
In a usual driving instance, you’d set off in electric-only power, and then when you reach a certain speed (15mph for the Toyota Prius), the car switches to engine and electric power.
What are the pros of a full hybrid car?
They’re great for town and city driving – which is why so many Ubers and taxis are hybrids
They’re more economical and fuel-efficient than non-hybrid cars
You don’t need to faff about with plugging it in to charge
What are the cons of a full hybrid car?
They’re not as economical on longer motorway journeys
They have a higher purchase price than non-hybrid cars
Battery replacement isn’t cheap
Should I buy a hybrid car?
If you’re someone who tends to do more city/town driving and general short trips, then we would recommend opting for any of the hybrids above.
However, if you’re someone who does longer journeys on the motorway or across the country, we’d say a hybrid may not be for you. If you really wanted to invest in hybrid technology, however, we’d recommend a mild hybrid.
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