Plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) generally exhibit better acceleration when operating in hybrid mode compared to electric vehicle (EV) mode. This is due to several factors:
- Combined Power Output: In hybrid mode, PHEVs utilize both the internal combustion engine and the electric motor to propel the vehicle. This combination results in a higher total power output compared to EV mode, where only the electric motor is used. For example, the Mercedes-Benz GLE450e achieves a total output of 381 horsepower and 479 pound-feet of torque in hybrid mode, significantly more than what the electric motor can deliver alone.
- Weight and Efficiency: PHEVs are heavier due to their larger batteries, but the additional weight is offset by the combined power of both the engine and electric motor in hybrid mode. This leads to faster acceleration times compared to EV mode, where the electric motor alone might struggle to efficiently accelerate the heavier vehicle.
- Performance in EV Mode: When operating solely on electric power, PHEVs often experience slower acceleration. For instance, the Prius Prime takes about twice as long to reach 60 mph in EV mode compared to its hybrid mode. Similarly, the Mercedes-Benz GLE450e’s acceleration from 0 to 60 mph is significantly slower in EV mode, taking 14.4 seconds versus 5.3 seconds in hybrid mode.
Overall, the hybrid mode benefits from the combined efficiency and power of both the gasoline engine and the electric motor, leading to better acceleration compared to EV mode.
Original article by NenPower, If reposted, please credit the source: https://nenpower.com/blog/do-phevs-have-better-acceleration-in-hybrid-mode-compared-to-ev-mode/
