What is the Difference Between Plug-in Hybrid and Hybrid?
2 Answers
The differences between plug-in hybrid and hybrid are as follows: 1. Charging Method: The power battery is charged by an external power source. Ordinary hybrid vehicles cannot use an external power source to charge the power battery. Plug-in hybrid vehicles belong to the category of new energy vehicles, while ordinary hybrid vehicles do not. 2. License Plate Registration: Can hybrid vehicles get green license plates? Hybrid vehicles can. 3. Different Nature: The main power source of a hybrid electric vehicle is the internal combustion engine. Hybrid vehicles primarily rely on the electric motor during the starting phase, and the engine only intervenes when a certain speed is reached. Compared to vehicles of the same size, the fuel cost is lower.
I've driven a hybrid car for several years and recently switched to a plug-in hybrid, noticing quite a noticeable difference. Hybrids mainly rely on the engine and braking energy recovery to charge the battery, with pure electric mode only capable of running about three to five kilometers—basically, the engine kicks in shortly after every start. The most significant feature of a plug-in hybrid is its ability to charge via an external power source, such as a home charging station or public charger. When fully charged, it can run purely on electricity for forty to fifty kilometers, which is more than enough for daily commutes, offering zero emissions and cost savings. However, without a stable charging point, like when traveling and unable to find a charger, you have to switch to hybrid mode and rely on gasoline. Overall, plug-in hybrids are more environmentally friendly and cost-effective, ideal for urban living with access to charging facilities, while regular hybrids are simpler and more convenient, eliminating the hassle of charging.