Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles
A plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) combines the propulsion capabilities of a traditional combustion engine with an electric motor. The PHEV uses essentially the same technology as an HEV but uses much larger high-voltage batteries to power the electric motor and has a longer all-electric range. But, unlike the batteries in the HEV, which are recharged by only the internal combustion engine, and other technologies, the batteries in PHEVs can also be recharged by using an external power source, such as a home electrical outlet.
PHEVs are often described by their all-electric range, which is the distance the vehicle can travel with minimal usage of the internal combustion engine for assistance. A PHEV might be referred to, for instance, as a PHEV 30, meaning the vehicle could travel 30 miles on all-electric mode.
PHEVs are gaining in popularity because of their ability to travel nominal distances, such as around town, or to work, using little to no petroleum based fuel in their all-electric range. PHEVs can also be less expensive to operate than conventional vehicles because buying electricity to recharge the vehicle is substantially cheaper than petroleum fuels.
While not available on the market now, several companies have PHEV designs in the works. These vehicles are designed to be "plugged in" at a residence to recharge the batteries while not in use.
Today, researchers are developing strategies for PHEVs to charge at home. There is uncertainty about the long-term effect large numbers of PHEVs will have on the electric utility grid. Therefore, major utility partners across the country have been invited to join the U.S. DRIVE Partnership to help address these issues before large-scale PHEV market introduction.