Plug-in hybrids are in the spotlight. Object of aid for the purchase, the governments have tightened the requirements for its acquisition, while the manufacturers increase the autonomy up to 100 kilometers, a strategy that does not suppose a real benefit and that we will tell you why.
The latest generation of plug-in hybrids hitting the new car market is equipped with a powerful battery to deliver a maximum autonomy of 100 kilometers in fully electric mode. Although in reality this figure is more in the orbit of the Premium, since the generalists are at the 50-kilometer equator.
Figures that already represent an important advantage, but It is not the most beneficial for customers, but for brands. PHEVs are the “cheapest” way for manufacturers when it comes to complying with the demanding emission standards that are becoming increasingly tougher and require extra technology and money to meet the limits set in combustion models. , so they are reduced at the fleet level.
Fast charging is the biggest drag on today’s plug-in hybrids
Recently, the governments of some countries have decided toughen the requirements when buying a plug-in hybrid, especially affecting SUVs that are heavier, prioritizing a minimum autonomy. The problem is that it is a “whiting that bites its tail”, so brands act accordingly to prevent certain models from being left out of subsidies, and losing sales: as easy as increase battery capacity and therefore autonomy.
But for customers there is no real benefit, as the vast majority of owners do not make daily trips of 100 kilometers. Not even a weekend, only on specific occasions of great trips. The studies carried out point to daily trips of an average of 75 kilometers, concluding that this figure is where it really is an advantage for the plug-in hybrid, as a single charge can cover this figure. The problem arises when on a long trip, the battery power runs out at 100 kilometers, even less, since you have to take into account the orography of the terrain, the pressure of the accelerator pedal and the load of the car, passengers and Baggage.
It is necessary to recharge the battery so that the savings are real and advantageous for customers because, otherwise, the combustion engine will take over the propulsion with the extra weight of the system and also making a minimum recharge of the battery that will not allow for the movement of the wheels and consuming more fuel. AND today there is no fast charge for plug-in hybrids, which take a couple of hours to reach 80% of full capacity at a 22 kW fast charge point. An electric, in a charging point of equal power, needs only 30 minutes, a more reasonable stop. This is the great reason why the plug-in hybrid with this autonomy is not beneficial.