This video provides an overview of plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs), covering their features, benefits, and differences from traditional hybrids and fully electric vehicles. It explains the various modes of operation and the advantages of using PHEVs for different driving needs.
Plug-in hybrid vehicles have become popular because they give drivers the best of both worlds. A plug-in hybrid electric vehicle, or PHEV, is a gasoline and electric-powered vehicle. You can drive around town on electric-only power and also take long trips using gasoline power. Most Americans drive fewer than 25 miles per day. Depending on the make and model, a plug-in hybrid can travel between 25 and 60 miles on all-electric power on a single charge. When the battery is depleted, the car can automatically switch to gas power. The history of the modern plug-in hybrid can be traced to the University of California, Davis. In 1990, Professor Andy Frank had his students create operating prototypes that would reinvent the modern plug-in hybrid. Their work influenced the California Air Resources Board to include PHEVs in the Zero Emissions Vehicle Mandate incentives. In 2004, they got funding from General Motors to hybridize GM's EV1 prototype. Those graduating students became highly sought-after engineers and managers for Ford, Nissan, GM, and other automakers. Meanwhile, Toyota, Nissan, and other automakers started their own PHEV programs. Most early PHEVs, beginning in 2003, were conversions of already existing hybrid models such as the Toyota Prius. Larger battery packs were added, along with an electric charging port for electric-only travel. Now, with more PHEVs on the road, there are more drivers reducing fuel consumption and greenhouse gas emissions. Thanks for watching. Be sure to subscribe to our YouTube channel to get recommendations for other useful content on green cars and how they can work best for you.