Why A Plug-In Hybrid Could Be The Smartest Choice For Your Next Car

Many consumers are unaware of the differences between a conventional hybrid and a plug-in hybrid, commonly called a PHEV (plug-in hybrid electric vehicle). In short, PHEVs provide the best of a traditional combustion-engined vehicle and a fully electric car. Equipped with an electric motor and sizeable battery pack, they can travel reasonable distances on electric power alone and even be charged like an EV. However, when charging isn’t possible, they can rely on the combustion engine for longer-distance travel. That sounds great, but what are the actual benefits?

PHEVs offer significantly lower fuel consumption and reduced emissions, benefiting your budget and the environment. When running on electric power, they produce zero tailpipe emissions, making them ideal for cleaner travel through suburbs and congested cities while cutting down your overall carbon footprint. Even if sustainability isn’t your main concern, the savings at the pump make a compelling case.

Take the Volvo XC60 range, for example. According to the manufacturer, the mild hybrid (MHEV) has a claimed fuel consumption of 7.6 L/100 km, whereas the PHEV Recharge returns 1.6 L/100 km. Moreover, the plug-in hybrid is notably more potent than its MHEV counterpart, with 340 kW and 709 N.m of torque (compared to 183 kW and 350 N.m). 

Then there’s the flexibility that PHEVs offer. J.D Power, the respected American consumer intelligence firm, reports that in all of its EV studies, five of the top 10 reasons respondents give for not purchasing an EV are driving range and charging. PHEVs are the perfect bridging solution to electric vehicles for those who are not comfortable going fully electric. For short trips, the driver can rely on the electric drivetrain, saving fuel and enjoying the refinement of an EV. Should the need for a longer journey pop up – a road trip or holiday, for example – the petrol engine acts as a backup, doing away with range anxiety and negating the need to find a charging station on a long trip. 

“Plug-in hybrids play a key role in easing the transition to electric mobility, offering a practical solution for drivers looking to reduce fuel consumption and emissions without compromising on performance or convenience,” commented Felipe Yagi, Head of Marketing and Communications at Volvo Car South Africa. 

According to GridCars, the number of public charging stations in South Africa is increasing, with an estimated 350 chargers nationwide. However, this number is set to expand in the coming years, with Zero Carbon Charge (CHARGE) intending to introduce 120 solar-powered charging stations on major highways across the country. This will allow PHEV owners to reduce their fuel bills further when travelling long distances. 

A PHEV offers the best of both worlds—drivers who recharge regularly can cut fuel costs, as electricity remains cheaper than petrol or diesel. Plus, running on electric power eases wear on the engine, while regenerative braking reduces strain on the brakes, potentially lowering maintenance costs over time.

The performance of a PHEV is also positive, with the electric motor and petrol engine working together to deliver strong acceleration. The aforementioned XC60 Recharge, for example, can sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.8 seconds. That means the electrified four-cylinder engine provides six- or eight-cylinder performance but boasts superior fuel efficiency than a traditional hybrid or diesel vehicle. Similarly, Lexus offers compelling PHEV options like the NX 450h, combining the brand’s renowned quality and luxury with strong performance and electric range (up to 66 km), making it another compelling choice for PHEV customers.