What is a plug-in hybrid car?
A plug-in hybrid electric vehicle, or PHEV, is a vehicle that uses two motors: a battery-powered electric motor and an internal combustion engine (ICE) that runs on fuel, such as gasoline.
Explore Progressive Answers' auto editorial guidelines to find out why you can trust the car insurance information you find here.
How do plug-in hybrids work?
PHEVs combine a combustion engine with an electric motor, allowing them to run on battery power, gas, or a combination of both. Plug-in hybrid vehicles have a larger electric battery and a different recharging system than traditional hybrid vehicles.
Depending on the model, plug-in hybrid vehicles can drive 15 to 60 miles on an electric-only range, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. When the battery in a PHEV runs out, the combustion engine takes over and allows you to continue driving as long as the car has conventional fuel. When a PHEV runs out of charge, it will continue driving like a conventional car, using regular or unleaded gasoline to power the ICE.
Learn more about the difference between PHEVs and hybrid cars.
Do plug-in hybrids charge while driving?
Yes, it's possible to charge PHEVs while driving using these methods:
Regenerative braking
When the vehicle slows or brakes, the electric motor acts as a generator converting the kinetic energy of braking to electrical energy to recharge the battery.
ICE-powered generator
In some PHEVs, the engine also serves as a generator to charge the battery. If the battery runs low while the engine is running, it can generate electricity to power the electric motor or add charge to the battery. Using the ICE to charge the battery isn't the most efficient method, but it can serve to extend the battery range and improve fuel efficiency.
While a PHEV can recharge while moving, the most efficient way to charge up is by plugging the vehicle into a wall charger or charging station, according to the U.S. Department of Energy.
How long does it take to charge a plug-in hybrid?
A PHEV may take one to six hours to fully recharge, depending on the vehicle and the type of charger used. The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) has established the EV Charging Minimum Standards Rule, providing the following charging time standards for PHEVs based on the charger type:
- Level 1 chargers can take between 5 and 6 hours to charge a PHEV
- Level 2 chargers can charge a PHEV in 1 to 2 hours
- Direct current fast charging (DCFC): Most PHEVs currently on the market don't work with fast chargers, per the U.S. DOT.
Learn about the EV revolution and how to manage battery life.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of plug-in hybrid cars?
Advantages of PHEVs
- Low running costs, low emissions, and possible tax incentives of an electric vehicle
- You can commute short-range and run daily errands without ever using the gas engine
- You won't have to worry about getting stranded without a charge on long trips due to the built-in ICE
Disadvantages of PHEVs
- When running exclusively on the ICE, a PHEV's heavy battery can diminish mileage compared to a non-hybrid vehicle
- PHEVs usually cost more upfront than a traditional hybrid or a gas-only vehicle
- EVs can be complicated to maintain, and the ICE will still require the regular maintenance that a conventional gas vehicle would
Does a plug-in hybrid car cost more to insure?
Insurance for plug-in hybrid cars may cost more than a conventional gas-powered vehicle or a fully hybrid vehicle. This is largely because PHEVs are more expensive, and their more complex equipment is more costly to repair or replace. The larger batteries of a PHEV also contribute to their higher price when compared to a full hybrid.
Example:Based on rates from Quadrant Information Services, Forbes reports that the average annual premium for a hybrid Honda CRV is $1,831, while insurance for the gas-powered version costs about $1,574.
Keep in mind that the price of your vehicle is only one of the factors that affect your insurance cost. Your rate is also determined by your age, location, driving record, vehicle usage, your specific make and model, and more. You may be able to lower the cost of car insurance for a plug-in hybrid car by maintaining a clean driving record and qualifying for car insurance discounts.
Get a car insurance quote to protect your PHEV
Call a rep
Talk with a licensed representative who can guide you through the process.
Call 1-866-749-7436
Quote car insurance online or give us a call
Learn more about car insurance policies.
