PHEVs earn automakers credits toward meeting zero-emissions vehicle requirements in states that have so-called ZEV (Zero Emissions Vehicle) programs.
The increased all-electric capability reduces fossil fuel use and results in lower emissions and improved fuel efficiency versus a conventional hybrid, which helps satisfy regulators. Toyota‘s RAV4 Prime gets very nearly the same mileage as its regular hybrid sister, but offers much more in terms of fully-electric range and the ability to drive at highway speeds on electric power alone. That means more power, better fuel efficiency and the ability to travel in all-electric mode at highway speeds for a useful distance. To have any value to the consumer, a PHEV has to deliver more than a conventional hybrid. That bigger motor and battery add cost extra, though. When that charge is depleted, the PHEV operates as a regular hybrid using engine power and regenerative braking to keep electrons flowing to the battery pack. The battery can be recharged from the commercial power grid by plugging into a 120- or 240-volt charging system, just like a fully-electric vehicle. The simplest explanation of the plug-in hybrid is that it is a hybrid vehicle with a bigger electric motor and larger, rechargeable battery.
It is a way for automakers to assuage consumer unease over EVs’ limited range while temporarily appeasing government regulators’ appetite for low emissions vehicles without the cost and range penalties of an ell-electric vehicle. The modern PHEV was devised as a stepping stone between conventional hybrids and the all-electric car.
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