Certain plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) are recognized for notably better acceleration performance in EV mode, though this is generally less common compared to their hybrid mode or full gasoline operation.
General Observations on PHEV EV Mode Acceleration
- PHEVs tend to have slower acceleration in pure EV mode compared to hybrid mode or conventional gas engines because their electric motors and battery setups are typically less powerful than full EV powertrains. For instance, tests have shown several PHEVs taking about twice as long to reach 60 mph in EV mode versus hybrid mode.
- The Mercedes-Benz GLE450e PHEV, despite strong total output (381 hp combining electric motor and gas engine), took 14.4 seconds to hit 60 mph in EV-only mode, much slower than its 5.3-second hybrid mode time and far behind fully electric Mercedes EQ models.
PHEVs Known for Stronger EV Mode Acceleration
- Porsche Panamera Plug-In Hybrid: Porsche’s plug-in Panamera lineup stands out for delivering sports car-level acceleration even in PHEV form. It offers an EV range of 35-40 miles and achieves 0-60 mph times as quick as 2.8 seconds on the top-end Turbo S E-Hybrid variant, which is exceptionally fast for any plug-in hybrid.
- Toyota RAV4 Prime: The RAV4 Prime delivers approximately 5.5 seconds for 0-60 mph acceleration and has around 42 miles of EV range. Its setup includes an additional electric motor on the rear axle, enabling all-wheel drive and a generally brisk EV mode acceleration.
- Toyota Prius Prime: While not known for explosive acceleration, the Prius Prime is efficient and delivers a balanced driving experience, including a respectable EV mode range of 45 miles. However, its EV mode acceleration is noticeably sluggish compared to hybrid mode, taking 9.3 seconds or more to reach 60 mph in pure electric.
Summary
| PHEV Model | 0-60 mph EV Mode Time | EV Mode Range (miles) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Porsche Panamera E-Hybrid | As quick as 2.8 sec | 35-40 | Sports car-level EV acceleration |
| Toyota RAV4 Prime | ~5.5 sec | 42 | AWD, sporty for a PHEV SUV |
| Toyota Prius Prime | ~9.3 sec | 45 | Great EV range, slower acceleration |
| Mercedes-Benz GLE450e | 14.4 sec | 23.3 kWh battery | Very slow EV-only acceleration |
In conclusion, for the best EV mode acceleration among PHEVs, the Porsche Panamera PHEV lineup is the standout choice, combining high horsepower electric motors with substantial EV range and sporty performance. The Toyota RAV4 Prime also offers notably quick EV acceleration for its segment. Most other PHEVs, including luxury SUVs like the Mercedes GLE450e, tend to have slower EV mode acceleration due to limited electric motor power and battery capacity.
Original article by NenPower, If reposted, please credit the source: https://nenpower.com/blog/are-there-any-specific-phevs-known-for-better-ev-mode-acceleration/
