Do Plug-in Hybrid Vehicles Need to Be Charged on Long Trips?

[EvelynAnn]

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.

[VonCamille]

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.

[RuthAnn]

Last month, I drove a plug-in hybrid car from Beijing to Shanghai, covering a total distance of 1,600 kilometers. Starting with a full charge, I managed to drive 85 kilometers on pure electric range before the engine kicked in. For the rest of the journey, I mainly relied on hybrid mode. The actual experience showed that there was no need to specifically wait for charging stations. During rest stops at service areas, I would conveniently charge for 20 minutes, accumulating an additional 10 kWh of electricity, which extended the range by over 60 kilometers. The calculated comprehensive fuel consumption was 5.2L per 100 kilometers, saving one-third compared to similar-class gasoline vehicles. The key advantage was the absence of range anxiety. On highways, the engine maintained a stable RPM, which actually made it more fuel-efficient than city driving. The only suggestion is to use navigation whenever possible, as the system automatically allocates energy consumption strategies based on road conditions.

[DiLukas]

As a four-year plug-in hybrid owner who has taken dozens of long-distance trips, the brilliance of a plug-in hybrid lies in its freedom from range anxiety. On highways, the engine's direct drive is more efficient and can even recharge the battery. I typically set the battery preservation mode to retain 30% charge, switching to pure electric mode in traffic jams to save fuel. Actual tests show a full tank and full charge can cover 900+ kilometers, much more convenient than forced charging. If charging stations at service areas are available without queues, I charge briefly before continuing. Remember, keeping the car in sport mode allows the engine to engage earlier for charging.