Do Plug-in Hybrids Belong to the New Energy Category?
2 Answers
Plug-in hybrids belong to the new energy category. Plug-in hybrid vehicles are currently a transitional model between gasoline-powered cars and pure electric vehicles, with the purpose of allowing more people to understand and use new energy vehicles. Due to the range limitations of pure electric vehicles, plug-in hybrid models have emerged to compensate and further promote the construction of charging infrastructure. Below is an introduction to the types of plug-in hybrid electric vehicles: 1. Series Plug-in Hybrid: Also known as range-extended electric vehicles. The engine does not directly drive the car; instead, it first drives a generator to produce electricity, which then powers the motor to drive the car. The energy transfer chain is long, resulting in relatively low overall efficiency. 2. Parallel Plug-in Hybrid: In this type, both the engine and the motor can drive the car. It offers multiple power transmission modes, better dynamic performance, a simple structure, and is widely used, making it the mainstream technical route. 3. Power-Split Plug-in Hybrid: Also known as series-parallel hybrids. It generally requires two motors (one generator and one motor) and a set of planetary gears for power distribution.
From my daily experience driving a plug-in hybrid, it is indeed classified as a new energy vehicle. I bought a PHEV last year, which can run about 60 kilometers in pure electric mode. For city commuting, I hardly use gasoline, and charging is cheaper than refueling. There’s also policy support, such as tax exemptions and easier license plate registration, as many regions explicitly include plug-in hybrids in new energy subsidy programs. However, it’s not fully electric—the gasoline component still produces emissions. On long trips, the hybrid system saves fuel, and overall carbon emissions are much lower than traditional cars. As an owner, I find this type of car highly convenient, with minimal battery maintenance hassle, though its environmental impact is limited. Many places are now promoting charging station infrastructure to further support it.
