
PHEVs will typically run on electricity until the battery is depleted. Use the Alternative Fueling Station Locator to find publicly accessible electric vehicle charging stations across the nation. The plug-in hybrid car represents a further evolution of the hybrid and is a combination of a hybrid and electric car. A plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) is a type of electric vehicle (EV) that uses a rechargeable battery to power an electric motor and another fuel, such as gasoline or diesel, to power an internal combustion engine or similar propulsion system. Of Energy’s Alternative Fuels Data Center. Learn about NREL's transportation and mobility research.įor more information about plug-in hybrid electric vehicles, visit the U.S. While the car is in motion and slowing down. Normally lost during braking is captured and stored in the battery. The Mild Hybrid POWER offers an all-round improvement in efficiency thanks to the smart regeneration system.

The battery can be charged by plugging into an electric power source, through regenerativeīraking, and by the internal combustion engine. An onboardĬomputer decides when to use which fuel according to which mode allows the vehicle Tank to provide a driving range similar to that of a conventional vehicle. For longer trips, a PHEV can draw liquid fuel from its onboard

The larger battery pack allows the vehicle to operate predominantly on electricityĭuring short trips. When the battery is fully discharged, the BMW TwinPower Turbo engine automatically takes over.The battery pack in a PHEV is generally larger than in a standard hybrid electric vehicle. In this way, for example, it is possible to use Battery Control Mode during a drive on the highway to protect or even increase the electric power reserves so that a subsequent urban route can be covered with electric driving and without any local emissions.Įven if you don’t have time to catch a charge, your PHEV will still get you where you need to go. This mode maintains the charge of the high-voltage battery constantly at the desired level or increases it to the preset value, by having the electric motor function as a generator. In addition, charging can also take place during the journey with the function known as Battery Control Mode. Using the Volvo Cars app, you can monitor average fuel consumption, battery charge levels and average use of electricity compared with fuel. You can also choose from multiple driving modes to fine tune your ride. Regenerative braking allows the plug-in hybrid to regain part of its energy. All our plug-in hybrid models deliver a powerful, responsive drive with smooth, quiet acceleration. Without charging, all-electric driving will be limited, and power reserves for the eBoost function will be much lower. For optimized efficiency, BMW recommends regular charging overnight.īMW plug-in hybrids can also charge while driving. Plug-in hybrid electric cars combine two propulsion modes in one vehiclea battery-powered electric motor that is plugged in and recharged, and a gasoline. Here are some other models to consider if you’re in the market for a plug-in hybrid. Mild hybrid technology optimizes efficiency and performance while increasing overall comfort for the driver.Ĭharging the battery of your plug-in hybrid vehicle is highly recommended to maximize efficiency and power.
#Plug in hybrid cars full#
While MHEVs cannot be driven on full electric power, the electric motor assists the combustion engine in certain situations – as a starter for seamless Auto Start/Stops, while accelerating from a standstill, or when you need extra eBoost acceleration as you drive.
#Plug in hybrid cars driver#
The larger battery size enables plug-in hybrids to operate in all-electric mode without engaging the combustion engine within a certain range and speed. The batteries in plug-in hybrids can be charged using a standard 120V household outlet, or a more powerful 240V outlet found at a public charging station or in the available BMW i Wallbox. In addition, the driver also has the option of using the combustion engine in tandem with the electric motor or independently.Ī hybrid vehicle, by contrast, cannot be changed from an external power source – they rely on energy generated from gasoline or regenerative braking. This limited power supply is not designed to support all-electric driving, and the smaller battery delivers fewer of the efficiency benefits of a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle.Ī mild hybrid electric vehicle (MHEV) is powered by a combustion engine supported by a 48V electric motor integrated into the drivetrain. A plug-in hybrid electric vehicle carries a larger battery than hybrid vehicles that cannot be plugged in.
