The charging frequency of plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) has a significant impact on their overall emissions, primarily by influencing the proportion of miles driven in electric mode versus gasoline mode.
- When PHEVs are charged more frequently, such as every drive day, they can offset a larger share of carbon emissions compared to equivalent conventional vehicles. For example, a 50-mile all-electric range (AER) PHEV that is charged once per drive day can reduce carbon emissions by about 37%, whereas charging only every other day (0.5 frequency) still achieves a 31% offset.
- Real-world data shows that PHEVs are not charged daily by many users; for instance, in Germany, private PHEV users charge on average three out of four driving days. This partial charging frequency reduces the potential emission benefits compared to ideal daily charging.
- The availability and speed of charging also affect emissions. PHEVs charged more frequently with faster Level 2 chargers at home or workplaces enable a higher share of electric driving, which leads to lower emissions overall. More frequent charging reduces the gasoline miles driven, directly cutting tailpipe emissions.
- However, increased charging also increases emissions from electricity generation, such as SO2 and CO2 from power plants, depending on the grid mix. Despite this, the net effect tends to be a reduction in total emissions because electric mode driving emits less than gasoline driving. Additionally, flexible charging patterns can improve grid efficiency and reduce some emissions like NOx during certain seasons.
In summary, higher charging frequency improves the environmental benefits of PHEVs by maximizing electric miles and minimizing gasoline use, leading to greater carbon emission reductions. Conversely, less frequent charging diminishes these benefits but often still provides a substantial emissions advantage compared to conventional vehicles. The net emissions also depend on the carbon intensity of electricity used for charging and charging infrastructure availability.
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