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 and how to charge a plug-in hybrid.
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 to charge a plug-in hybrid
PHEVs charge through regenerative braking, the internal combustion engine, and external power sources. If you're wondering how to charge a plug-in hybrid, the easiest way is using a PHEV charger at home.
While a standard wall outlet works, a Level 2 charger significantly reduces charging time. So, how long does it take to charge a plug-in hybrid? That depends on the charger—Level 2 can fully charge most PHEVs in just a few hours, while a standard outlet takes much longer.
How long do PHEV chargers take?
Charging times vary based on battery size, charger type, and existing charge level:
Level 1 (120V): The slowest option, taking 8-12 hours for a full charge from a standard wall outlet.
Level 2 (240V): Found at home or public EV charging stations, typically charges in 1.5-3 hours.
Level 3 (DC Fast Charger): While not available for most PHEVs, compatible models can charge in minutes at fast-charging stations.
How long does it take to charge a plug-in hybrid with a level 1 charger?
Charging times for a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle depend on several factors, including the size of the battery and the type of PHEV charger being used. When using a Level 1 charger, which is the standard charging option that plugs into a 120-volt household outlet, the process can take several hours. Key points to consider include:
Battery Size: PHEV battery capacities typically range from:
13.6 kWh – Example: Toyota Prius Prime
20 kWh – Example: Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV
Level 1 Charging Speed:
Delivers approximately 1.2 kW of power to the vehicle’s battery.
This is the slowest charging option but is widely accessible as it uses a standard household outlet.
Recommended Charging Range:
Experts recommend keeping PHEV batteries charged between 20% and 80% to prolong battery life.
Charging from 20% to 80% requires less time compared to fully charging from 0% to 100%.
Estimated Charging Time Using Level 1 Charger:
Toyota Prius Prime – Charging from 20% to 80%: Approximately 6.7 hours.
Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV – Charging from 20% to 80%: Approximately 10 hours.
What chargers are compatible with a PHEV?
PHEVs are compatible with different types of chargers, depending on the charging speed and convenience needed. Most PHEVs come with a Level 1 charger that plugs into a standard household outlet, making it the simplest way to charge a plug-in hybrid.
Level 2 chargers are another common option, providing faster charging at home or public stations. These PHEV chargers require a 240-volt outlet and can reduce charging times significantly. Some PHEVs also support DC Fast Chargers (DCFC), which offer the quickest charging, though this capability is less common in plug-in hybrids compared to fully electric vehicles.
Can you fast charge a plug in hybrid?
Most PHEVs are not compatible with PHEV fast chargers like DC fast chargers (Level 3), which provide high-voltage direct current for rapid charging. Instead, PHEVs are typically designed to be charged with Level 1 or Level 2 chargers, which are better suited for their smaller battery capacities.
However, some models, such as the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV, come equipped with fast-charging capabilities, allowing them to be compatible with select PHEV chargers that support DC fast charging. Always check the vehicle’s specifications and available 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 the 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 a 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 a 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.
Do I need a special PHEV charger for my home?
In most cases, you do not need a special PHEV charger to charge a 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 a 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:
2025 Plug-in Hybrid Model | Hybrid electric range |
Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV | 38 miles |
Kia Sorento PHEV | 30 miles |
Hyundai Tucson PHEV | 33 miles |
Toyota Prius Prime PHEV | 44 miles |
Ford Escape | 37 miles |
Jeep Wrangler | 21 miles |
Volvo S60 | 40 miles |
Chrysler Pacifica PHEV | 32 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 PHEV charger projects, complete the form below to learn more about using the GreenLancer design and engineering platform.
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