Plug-In-Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV)

What are the key technical differences between a BEV and a PHEV? 

Although both BEV and PHEV can be driven on electric the PHEV also has a traditional set up, with either a diesel or petrol engine potentially driving the vehicle. The idea behind a PHEV is that it is a more efficient and cleaner vehicle and it sits in between full electric and full petrol or diesel. PHEVs generally have a much smaller battery size than the equivalent BEV and this therefore gives the vehicle a much shorter range when being driven on electric, on average about 30 – 40 miles in total. 

This can be used all at once or used alongside the petrol or diesel engine. Therefore if you had say a 25 mile commute you could choose to complete this on electric or if you commute was into a low emission zone you would potentially be exempt from charges associated with traditional petrol and diesel vehicles. Once the battery charge on a PHEV is fully depleted the car will run just on petrol or diesel.

How do I charge my PHEV and do I get financial support for a homecharge point?

Charging a PHEV is the same as charging a BEV, although due to the smaller battery size the charge will take less time than a BEV. PHEVs no longer qualify for the Electric Vehicle Homecharge Scheme that is available for BEVs.
Although you can still select an installer using the same channels as given for BEVs, i.e. through the Electric Vehicle Chargepoint Grant – Authorised Installers. But you would pay the full cost with no grant.

How does the maintenance of a PHEV differ from a BEV?

Due to a PHEV still having an internal combustion engine the car will need more traditional servicing, such as oil and filter changes, spark plug changes for petrol engines and fuel filters for diesel. The electric side of the car will need to be checked on a regular service interval too, as per a BEV.