PHEV (plug-in hybrid electric vehicle)
Plug-in hybrid electric vehicle
A plug-in hybrid has both a gas engine and a battery you charge from a socket, giving a limited electric-only range before the engine takes over.
A plug-in hybrid (PHEV) sits between a hybrid (HEV) and a BEV. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, its battery can be charged from a wall outlet or charging equipment, by the engine, or through regenerative braking. The car typically runs on electric power until the battery is nearly depleted, then automatically switches to the gas engine.
A PHEV does not have to be plugged in. Fueleconomy.gov notes that it can run on gasoline alone but will not achieve its maximum range or fuel economy without charging, and the EPA fuel economy label shows a separate figure for gasoline operation once the battery is emptied.
When comparing PHEVs, check the electric-only range on a named cycle, the battery's usable capacity, and the fuel consumption with an empty battery. On CarPairly, PHEVs are listed under the Gas branch because they still burn fuel.