What Is A Plug In Hybrid? | Kia Eco Cars | Kia Motors UK

How does a plug-in hybrid car work?
A plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) works in a similar way to a self-charging hybrid– there is a petrol engine combined with an electric motor and a battery. In a plug-in hybrid, the battery is much larger than in a self-charging hybrid. This means the car is able to travel around 30 miles on battery power alone – more than enough for the UK average daily commute – but it can also call on the petrol engine for longer trips.
Like a self-charging hybrid, the battery can be charged whilst driving, but for the full benefit, you will need to plug in. Charging a PHEV should take less than three hours. Put this all together and you can enjoy miles of low-cost, all-electric driving while still having a petrol engine for those rare long distance trips. Perfect.

What are the benefits of a plug-in hybrid?
There are plenty of benefits to owning a plug-in hybrid car, here are some of our favourites
Flexibility
Zero emissions driving

Cheap to run
Vehicle eligibility and grant figure correct as at June 2020. UK sales only (excludes Channels Islands and Isle of Man). Grant scheme may be withdrawn and eligibility/amounts may change at any time without prior notice.
Charge at home
Vehicle eligibility and grant figure correct as at June 2020. UK sales only (excludes Channels Islands and Isle of Man). Grant scheme may be withdrawn and eligibility/amounts may change at any time without prior notice.

Relaxing drive

What’s it like to drive a PHEV?
Relaxing and rather fun, actually. When running on battery power, PHEVs are very responsive, because unlike combustion engines, electric motors produce maximum torque at any rpm. Acceleration is instant.
Most charging in the UK is done at home, but If you want to top up on the go, there are more than 7,000 public charging locations in the UK. Or, you can simply let the petrol engine take over when you run out of charge.
All you have to worry about is driving as you normally would, while reaping the benefits of improved fuel economy and lower emissions.
Kia’s plug-in hybrid cars
If you like the idea of a PHEV, why not check out the Niro PHEV?
Everything you need to know about charging your Kia
Whether you’re charging from home, at work or in public, charging is easier and more convenient than you think.
Explore MoreStyle and substance. The Kia Niro PHEV
Still Wondering?

What is a battery electric car?
A battery electric vehicle is better for the environment than a petrol or diesel car, cheaper to run, and simple to own. Like the sound of that? Our simple guide can tell you more.

What is a hybrid or self-charging hybrid car?
Hybrid cars can offer you improved fuel economy and lower emissions, without the need to change how you use your vehicle. No plugging in required.

What is a mild hybrid car?
Mild Hybrids allow your engine to switch off more frequently, which improves fuel economy and reduces emissions.

How does charging work?
Don’t worry, charging may seem like a whole new world, but in reality it’s very simple.

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