Do Plug-in Hybrid Vehicles Need to Be Charged on Long Trips?
2 Answers
Plug-in hybrid vehicles need to be charged on long trips. Here is the relevant introduction: Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs): A plug-in hybrid electric vehicle is a type of new energy vehicle that bridges the gap between pure electric vehicles and fuel-powered vehicles. It features both the traditional car components—such as the engine, transmission, drivetrain, fuel system, and fuel tank—and the battery, electric motor, and control circuitry of a pure electric vehicle, with a larger battery capacity and a charging port. Prospects: In recent years, China's policies on subsidies, incentives, and support for new energy vehicles have encouraged automakers to enter this field. Many industry insiders believe that the reason plug-in hybrids have overshadowed pure electric vehicles, which were once the 'flagship' of the sector, is related to the current developmental challenges faced by pure electric vehicles.
I've driven my plug-in hybrid vehicle on several cross-province long-distance trips. Actually, there's no need to specifically look for charging stations to charge it, because it's essentially still a hybrid vehicle with coordinated operation of fuel and electricity. When driving on highways, the system automatically switches between fuel and electric modes. When the battery runs low, the engine will charge it. However, charging definitely saves more on fuel costs. It's recommended to start with a full charge and top up along the way when convenient, such as charging for half an hour during meal breaks to extend the range by several dozen kilometers. Driving with a completely depleted battery is also fine; the fuel consumption will be higher than in the city but still at least 20% more economical than a conventional fuel vehicle. Remember to check the battery health in advance and avoid letting the battery overheat in summer.
