Yes, certain plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) models can offer better fuel efficiency than traditional hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs) in city traffic, especially if the PHEV is regularly charged and driven within its electric-only range.
How PHEVs and HEVs Differ in City Fuel Efficiency
- HEVs have a small battery (~1 kWh) that is charged through regenerative braking and the gasoline engine. Their electric motor assists the gas engine, especially in stop-and-go city driving, resulting in unusually high city fuel economy. However, their overall fuel efficiency depends entirely on gasoline once the battery’s small capacity is depleted.
- PHEVs feature a much larger battery—about 10 to 20 times bigger than that of an HEV—enabling them to drive solely on electric power for 20 to 50 miles before the gasoline engine is needed. When driven within this electric range and regularly charged, PHEVs consume significantly less gas than HEVs because they rely more on electricity in city traffic.
Fuel Efficiency Advantages of PHEVs Over HEVs in City Traffic
- PHEVs can run in all-electric mode for most short city trips, which eliminates gasoline consumption during those drives. This results in lower fuel consumption and operating costs compared to HEVs, which cannot drive on electricity alone for extended distances.
- When the battery is depleted, PHEVs’ fuel economy approaches that of HEVs, so frequent charging is essential to maximize the efficiency advantage.
- For example, typical HEVs like the Toyota Corolla Hybrid consume roughly 4.5–5.0 L/100 km combined city/highway. Meanwhile, PHEVs have two efficiency ratings: electric consumption can be as low as 2.0–2.5 Le/100 km when running on battery power alone, much lower than pure gasoline consumption in HEVs.
Summary
| Vehicle Type | Battery Size | Electric-only Range | Fuel Efficiency in City Traffic | Key Condition for Efficiency Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HEV (Hybrid) | Small (~1 kWh) | None or very limited | High city MPG due to electric assist | N/A |
| PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid) | Larger (10-20x HEV) | ~20–50 miles | Much lower fuel consumption when charged | Regular charging and driving within EV range |
In conclusion, PHEVs can outperform HEVs in city fuel efficiency if driven mostly within their electric driving range and frequently charged. Without frequent charging or longer trips that deplete the battery, their fuel efficiency aligns more closely with HEVs.
Original article by NenPower, If reposted, please credit the source: https://nenpower.com/blog/are-there-any-phev-models-that-offer-better-fuel-efficiency-than-hevs-in-city-traffic/
