Are Audi plug-in hybrids good?
Verdict. As with anything to feature the VW Group’s latest 1. PHEV powertrain, the Audi A3 TFSI e represents a significant improvement on its predecessor. The hybrid setup is smooth and well integrated, but it’s the electric running ability and potential for very low running costs that impress the most. Are plug-in or self-charging hybrids better? On paper, plug-in hybrids are more efficient than a self-charging hybrid, the bigger battery means a PHEV can cover more miles in 100% electric mode. However, this isn’t a disadvantage if you’re primarily using the car for city driving.A PHEV powertrain you’ll never plug in represents extra cost and added weight because of the bigger battery. A lighter and cheaper standard hybrid is the better way to go in this case, as the reduced weight of a hybrid typically results in better fuel economy than an equivalent PHEV running on gasoline.If you want to enjoy the benefits of a hybrid plus an extended electric-only driving range, the ability to charge your traction battery through compatible equipment at home, or at a charging station, and typically better performance than HEV counterparts of the same model, then a plug-in hybrid might be the right .Practical Advantages for Audi Drivers Audi’s mild hybrid technology won’t affect your daily driving routine. Unlike plug-in hybrids, there’s no need for external charging — the system operates exactly like a traditional gas vehicle while delivering better fuel economy, especially in stop-and-go traffic.A plug-in hybrid is a useful step towards running a fully electric car, so long as you can recharge at home. If you can’t, a regular hybrid makes more sense. Provided you do have a drive or garage, a plug-in hybrid combines exhaust-emissions-free short journeys with hassle-free long trips.
What is the downside of a plug-in hybrid?
Plug-in hybrids tend to be more expensive than hybrid vehicles. The added flexibility and convenience of using all-electric power for shorter drives while still being able to rely on the gasoline engine come with an added cost. Still, the money spent upfront may balance out with the lower fuel charges. Pros of driving a hybrid Because PHEV packs can take hours to recharge, a convenient home power source, usually in a garage, is often a necessity if you have a PHEV. Hybrids usually cost less to buy than PHEVs. Battery packs contain costly materials; the larger the pack, the more expensive the vehicle.In summary Deciding whether plug-in hybrid cars are worth it depends on your individual circumstances. Although PHEVs tend to make up for their typically higher purchase price by saving drivers money on fuel and maintenance over time, that isn’t universally true.Plug-In Hybrids Have Fewer Problems Than Before But having both electric and gasoline powertrains increases the chances of problems. This is partly why, even after improving reliability from last year, PHEVs typically have more issues than both standard hybrid and gas-only vehicles.Hybrids are usually most efficient in stop-and-go driving and offer a lower fuel economy bump at steady highway speeds. Because of their small battery pack, most hybrids have an electric range of only about 1-3 miles at low speeds. Plug-in hybrids have a much longer electric range.Worse Fuel Economy: Plug-in hybrids are heavier due to their larger batteries. Without charging, this extra weight leads to reduced fuel efficiency compared to regular hybrids​. Reduced Environmental Benefits: Operating without charging negates the EV mode, resulting in higher emissions and reliance on gasoline.
Why are plug-in hybrids not popular?
Partially due to the extra heft, PHEVs tend to get substantially worse fuel economy in hybrid mode than an equivalent hybrid does [see The Penalty of Not Plugging In below]. And if the outside temperature is too cold or the driver applies too much right pedal, PHEVs often force the gas engine to start. Higher Initial Cost One of the primary drawbacks of hybrid cars is their higher initial purchase price compared to conventional vehicles. While the long-term savings can mitigate this cost, the higher upfront expense can be a barrier for some buyers.If you look at the annual growth rate of PHEV sales over the last five years, they’ve been growing slightly faster than fully-electric cars, and much faster than petrol ones (which are actually shrinking). So plug-in hybrids are not out-of-the-race.Used hybrids have highly variable resale values that depend a lot on year, make, and model. The typical used hybrid costs more than a comparable gas-only vehicle, but the price spread is usually only a few thousand dollars.But it’s also clear that if you’ll rarely plug and will drive a high percentage of miles on gasoline, then a PHEV is NOT for you. Look into a regular hybrid if this sounds familiar. A PHEV powertrain you’ll never plug in represents extra cost and added weight because of the bigger battery.
Is it worth the extra money for a plug-in hybrid?
Yes, they are worth it. A PHEV can slash your gas usage for 50% to 90%. Get one that can cover your commute and charge it every night. It will accelerate the payback of your solar PV by replacing expensive gasoline with your solar electricity. In summary Deciding whether plug-in hybrid cars are worth it depends on your individual circumstances. Although PHEVs tend to make up for their typically higher purchase price by saving drivers money on fuel and maintenance over time, that isn’t universally true.