Understanding Hybrid Cars vs Plug-in Hybrid Cars: Efficiency, Cost, and Future Trends

When it comes to electric vehicles (EVs), two primary types of hybrid cars often come to mind: hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs) and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs). While battery electric vehicles (BEVs) have been the focus of discussions about the future of transportation, it's essential to understand the differences between HEVs and PHEVs. This article explores the distinctions, efficiency, operational costs, and future prospects of these vehicles.

What Are Hybrid Electric Vehicles (HEVs) and Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs)?

Both HEVs and PHEVs are driven by electric motors fed by an internal combustion engine (ICE) and an onboard generator. However, the key differences lie in their battery capabilities and modes of operation.

Parts of a hybrid car, including an ICE, generator, and electric motors, operate together to provide power to the wheels. The efficiency of an EV does not solely depend on the battery; it also depends on the efficiency of the electric drive motors. These motors are highly efficient, regardless of the source of the electricity.

Structure and Function

Hybrid Electric Vehicles (HEVs): An HEV contains a gasoline engine that operates a generator, which in turn charges the battery. The vehicle primarily runs on electric power, supplemented by the engine when necessary. HEVs can only recharge the battery using the onboard generator and do not have the option to plug in for charging.

Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs): PHEVs function similarly to HEVs but with a larger battery that can be charged both through the onboard generator and an external charger. This larger battery allows PHEVs to operate in all-electric mode for a limited range and to recharge using an external power source when needed. PHEVs can run on their batteries alone, with the engine/generator providing additional support when the battery is not sufficient.

Efficiency and Environmental Impact

Efficiency and environmental impact are crucial factors when considering the advantages of HEVs and PHEVs. Both types of vehicles aim to reduce CO2 emissions and provide better overall efficiency.

Both HEVs and PHEVs offer comparable CO2 emissions over their lifetimes. However, the choice between the two can influence the daily driving experience and charging needs.

Operational Costs: Hybrid EVs vs Plug-in Hybrid EVs vs Battery EVs

Comparing the operational costs of different types of electric vehicles can help consumers make informed decisions when it comes to purchasing and maintaining their vehicles.

The cost to operate a vehicle includes both the purchase price and the operating expenses such as fuel and charging.

Cost Analysis

Hybrid Electric Vehicles (HEVs): A simple example is the hybrid Ford Edge. With a purchase cost of 19 cents a mile and a fuel cost of approximately 12.5 cents a mile, a hybrid like the Ford Edge can be expected to have an operational cost of around 31.5 cents per mile.

Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs): For a PHEV, the cost can vary. A Chevrolet Bolt, which is a PHEV, would incur a purchase cost of 21.2 cents a mile plus a fuel cost of 8.5 cents a mile, totaling around 28.7 cents a mile.

Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs): A Tesla Y EV, for example, would cost 30.35 cents a mile, considering the cost of charging with a 36,000-watt rooftop solar system and a charge cost of 7 cents a mile. A Ford Edge ICE, as mentioned, would cost 31.5 cents a mile.

The key differentiator is the initial purchase cost of a BEV, which is often higher than that of a HEV or PHEV. However, over the long term, the operating costs (especially in terms of fuel and maintenance) are significantly lower for BEVs.

Future Trends

The trend towards electric vehicles is clear, with the gradual phasing out of internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles. Governments worldwide are implementing policies and incentives to promote the adoption of electric vehicles, including hybrids, plug-ins, and battery-powered cars.

While the original purpose of hybrid vehicles was to improve fuel efficiency and lower emissions, and to allow automakers to transition into the electric vehicle market, their dual nature means that they are not the ideal solution. They are the "worst of both worlds," combining high costs, heavy batteries, and the need for gasoline.

As battery technology advances and costs decrease, pure battery electric vehicles (BEVs) are becoming more viable and attractive. However, the transition from hybrid to pure electric vehicles will be gradual, with plugins serving as a bridge in the meantime.

Concluding, while both HEVs and PHEVs are efficient and environmentally friendly, they will likely be replaced by pure BEVs in the long run. The market's shift towards electric vehicles will continue to drive demand for more advanced and cost-effective technologies.

As a general rule for most people, never pass up an opportunity to pass up buying a hybrid. This statement highlights the current alternatives and the future forecast. While there may be occasional exceptions, such as restored Volts/Amperas with good batteries, the trend favors battery electric vehicles for their lower costs and greater efficiency over time.

When will BEVs fully replace hybrid vehicles? The exact timeline is uncertain, but it is clear that the shift towards pure electric vehicles is on the horizon. Hybrid vehicles will be one of the early evolutions of the auto industry's move towards sustainability and emission reduction, but their role will diminish as technology advances.