Understanding the Difference Between an EV and PHEV Vehicle
Understanding the Difference Between an EV and PHEV Vehicle
Posted on June 13, 2023
With the rise in popularity of electrified vehicles, the automotive market has seen an influx of different powertrain technologies, each offering unique benefits. Understanding the differences between these technologies, specifically fully electric vehicles (EVs) and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs), can help consumers make informed decisions about the type of vehicle that best fits their needs. In this article, we delve deeper into the operational nuances of EVs and PHEVs and discuss Hyundai's offerings in these segments.
Electric Vehicles (EVs)
Electric vehicles are powered solely by electricity stored in a large battery pack. They produce zero tailpipe emissions, making them an environmentally-friendly choice. The performance of EVs is often impressive, with rapid acceleration and smooth, quiet operation. Charging an EV involves plugging it into an external power source, and the range of the vehicle is determined by the capacity of its battery. Hyundai's electric lineup, including models like the Ioniq 5 and Kona Electric, boasts impressive ranges, advanced technology features, and stylish designs.
Hyundai Electric Vehicles
| Model | MSRP | Electric Range |
|---|---|---|
| Hyundai IONIQ 5 Preferred AWD Long Range | $54,999 | 422km |
| Hyundai IONIQ 5 Preferred RWD Long Range | $52,999 | 488km |
| Hyundai IONIQ 5 Preferred RWD Short Range | $48,999 | 354km |
| Hyundai IONIQ 6 | $54,999 | 581km |
| Hyundai Kona EV | $44,399–$49,499 | 415km |
Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs)
Plug-in hybrid electric vehicles are something of a bridge between traditional hybrid vehicles and fully electric vehicles. PHEVs contain both an internal combustion engine and a larger battery pack which can be charged from an external source, much like an EV. This allows for shorter trips to be made solely on electric power, while longer journeys can utilize the combustion engine.
When the battery is depleted, the vehicle continues to operate as a traditional hybrid, with the engine providing power and recharging the battery. This makes PHEVs particularly flexible, as they can operate efficiently for both short commutes and longer journeys. Hyundai offers several PHEV models, including the Tucson and Santa Fe Plug-in Hybrids.
Hyundai PHEV Models
| Model | MSRP | Electric Range | Full Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV | $49,699 | 53km | 655km |
| Hyundai Tucson PHEV | $44,549 | 53km | 679km |
Choosing Between EV and PHEV
The decision between an EV and a PHEV depends largely on your lifestyle, driving habits, and personal preferences. If your daily commute is short, and you have access to a charging infrastructure, an EV might be a perfect fit for you. These vehicles tend to have lower running costs, as electricity is often cheaper than gasoline, and they require less maintenance.
On the other hand, if you frequently embark on longer journeys and don't have consistent access to a charging infrastructure, a PHEV might be a more practical choice. With a PHEV, you can drive short distances on electric power and switch to the internal combustion engine for longer trips, providing the flexibility of both powertrains.
Whether you're leaning towards the zero-emission operation of an EV or the combined efficiency and flexibility of a PHEV, Hyundai offers a diverse range of vehicles that cater to a variety of needs and preferences. Understanding the difference between these powertrain technologies is a crucial step towards making an informed vehicle purchase.