Many electric car drivers have range anxiety. They are concerned about running out of charge and getting stranded or else having to make inconvenient stops to recharge their electric vehicle (EV) batteries. For this reason, demand for plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) is high. Read on to learn about using a PHEV charger at home and on the go.
What is a PHEV?
A PHEV is a hybrid vehicle that combines an internal combustion engine with a rechargeable battery. PHEVs can be charged using an external power source, offering a limited all-electric range before switching to gasoline. This dual capability increases fuel efficiency and reduces greenhouse emissions, making PHEVs an excellent option for drivers transitioning to electric mobility.
How do PHEVs charge?
Hybrid cars typically charge through regenerative braking and the internal combustion engine. Additionally, some hybrid models are plug-in hybrids, allowing users to charge their batteries by plugging into an external power source, such as an electrical outlet or a charging station, providing an extended electric-only driving range. PHEV charging at home is often the most convenient, as owners can charge their vehicles overnight using a standard wall outlet or a more efficient Level 2 charger.
How long do PHEV chargers take?
Charging a PHEV depends on factors like battery capacity, the EV charger, and the existing battery charge. Level 1 Charging (120V) is the slowest, taking 8 to 12 hours for a full charge. Level 2 (240V) PHEV chargers at public EV charging stations or homes ranges from 1.5 to 3 hours. Level 3 PHEV chargers (DC Fast Chargers) offers rapid charging in minutes if compatible with the vehicle.
How long does charging a fully discharged PHEV using a level 1 charger take?
Charging time depends on the size of the PHEV battery, typically ranging from about 13.6 kWh (e.g., Toyota Prius Prime) to 20 kWh (e.g., Mitsubishi Outlander). A level 1 EV charger provides roughly 1.2 kW to a PHEV battery. Experts advise maintaining PHEV batteries between 20% and 80% charge. Following this recommendation, it would take approximately 6.7 to 10 hours to charge a PHEV battery using a level 1 charger.
What chargers are compatible with a PHEV?
PHEVs are compatible with Level 1 chargers using standard outlets, and most come with the necessary hardware. They can also use Level 2 chargers, including PHEV chargers commonly found at public stations or in-home installations. Some PHEVs may also support DC Fast Chargers (DCFC), which offer the most rapid charging.
Can I charge my PHEV with a fast charger?
Most PHEVs are not compatible with DC fast chargers, also known as level 3 chargers, which deliver high-voltage direct current (DC) for rapid charging. Instead, PHEVs are typically designed for level 1 or level 2 chargers, which match their smaller battery capacities.
However, some models, such as the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV, are equipped with fast-charging capabilities, making them compatible with select PHEV chargers that support DC fast charging. Always check your vehicle's specifications and charging infrastructure for compatibility.
Are there fast charging hybrids?
Several PHEV models offer fast charging capabilities, making them the fastest-charging PHEVs. Some of the PHEVs that are equipped to utilize DC fast chargers, per the automaker's websites, include:
Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV: This model features a CHAdeMO port, making this PHEV compatible with fast chargers.
Volvo XC40 Recharge T5: The PHEV version of the Volvo XC40 Recharge offers PHEV fast charger capabilities with the CCS charging standard.
MINI Cooper SE Countryman ALL4: This PHEV from MINI can use fast chargers, making it one of the fastest-charging PHEVs available.
DC fast charging capabilities in PHEVs may vary based on specific trim levels or regional availability. Always check with the manufacturer or dealer for the exact specs for your location.
How do I know if my PHEV has fast charger capabilities?
The fastest-charging PHEVs have connectors for using DC fast chargers. In North America, one common type of DCFC plug is the Combined Charging System (CCS). Another type of DCFC plug is the CHAdeMO connector, commonly used by Japanese carmakers, including the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV. Determine if your PHEV has a fast charging port or refer to manufacturer information to determine if it has fast charging capabilities.
How much does it cost to charge a PHEV?
The cost to charge a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle varies based on electricity rates, the battery charge level, and the battery capacity. The average cost per kWh of electricity in the U.S. as of June 2024 is $0.133, but some EV charging stations may charge a higher rate. For example, if it takes 6 kWh to fully charge a PHEV at the cost of $0.20 per kWh, the cost would be $1.20.
Electricity rates and charging costs can vary widely by location and utility provider. Also, the cost of charging may vary for Level 2 and DC fast charging methods, and charging a PHEV with a fast charger is often more expensive.
Can I use public charging stations for my PHEV?
Yes, you can use public charging stations for your plug-in hybrid. Public charging networks, like ChargePoint and EVgo, offer Level 2 PHEV chargers compatible with most plug-in hybrids. Ensure your PHEV has the appropriate EV charging connector and, if necessary, an adapter. While most PHEVs do not support Level 3 fast chargers, many can utilize Level 2 PHEV chargers for convenient and faster charging away from home.
Where can I find a PHEV charger?
You can charge your plug-in hybrid at various locations, including home charging stations, workplace EV chargers, and public EV charging networks. Popular charging networks like EVgo, ChargePoint, and Electrify America offer widespread access to public EV charging stations, ensuring convenient PHEV charger options on the go.Â
Do I need a special PHEV charger for my home?
In most cases, you do not need a special PHEV charger to charge your PHEV at home. Most plug-in hybrids come with a Level 1 charging cable, which can be plugged into a standard household electrical outlet. This basic charging setup is convenient for overnight charging.
However, you may install a Level 2 PHEV charger for faster charging at home. Level 2 PHEV chargers operate at 240V and are more powerful than standard household outlets. While not absolutely necessary, a Level 2 PHEV charger can significantly reduce charging time compared to Level 1.
How big are PHEV batteries?
The battery pack capacity of plug-in hybrid varies, typically ranging from around 8 kWh to 20 kWh. However, some premium models, such as the Polestar 1 (with a 34 kWh battery) and the Porsche Cayenne E-Hybrid (with a 25.9 kWh battery), have a larger capacity battery pack.
The PHEV battery capacity and the efficiency of the vehicle determine the all-electric range, with larger batteries typically providing more electric-only driving distance before the internal combustion engine is engaged. However, larger PHEV batteries mean long charging times if the battery is largely discharged.
What happens if I don’t charge my PHEV?
If you don’t charge your PHEV, it will rely entirely on its internal combustion engine, functioning like a traditional hybrid vehicle. While this allows uninterrupted driving, it reduces the advantages of lower emissions and improved fuel efficiency provided by electric-only operation. Using a PHEV charger regularly ensures you maximize the benefits of the vehicle’s dual power systems and maintain optimal efficiency.
What is the all-electric range of a PHEV?
The all-electric range of a PHEV depends on the model and battery capacity. Most PHEVs provide electric-only ranges between 10 and 60 miles on a full charge, suitable for short trips and daily commutes while minimizing gasoline use and emissions. High-end PHEVs like the Porsche Cayenne E-Hybrid and Polestar I PHEV offer extended ranges of up to 83 miles and 77 miles, respectively, enhancing their electric driving capabilities.
Here is the pure electric range of some of the most popular plug-in hybrids on the U.S. market under ideal driving conditions:
2024 PHEV Model | Hybrid electric range |
Mitsubishi Outlander | 38 miles |
Kia Sorento | 32 miles |
Hyundai Tucson | 33 miles |
Toyota Prius Prime | 44 miles |
Ford Escape | 37 miles |
Jeep Wrangler | 22 miles |
Volvo S60 | 40 miles |
Meeting the demand for EV charging station installations
Understanding how PHEVs charge is critical for EV charging station installers to better serve their clients. With skyrocketing plug-in hybrid electric vehicle sales, contractors have many opportunities to install electric car chargers. If you want to become a professional EV charging station installer, read our guide on training and licensing programs.
GreenLancer specializes in commercial and multifamily EV charging station plan sets, PE stamps, and engineering reviews with speed and precision. Our network includes licensed engineers in all 50 states. If you are working on EV charging station projects, complete the form below to learn more about using the GreenLancer design and engineering platform.