Plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) have an entire gas-powered system, an electrical drivetrain, and a battery. It can use one or the other, or both. This system is much different than a "hybrid" vehicle.
Plug-in hybrids typically use larger battery packs than comparable conventional hybrids, however, and thus require more resources. Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) has suggested that utilities could purchase used batteries for backup and load leveling purposes.
Plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) are an excellent choice for buyers who want to spend less time at the gas pump and enjoy the efficiency of an EV without going all-in on the technology. That said, there are several things you'll want to consider, and don't treat it like a regular electric vehicle.
Another thing to keep in mind is the brakes. Hybrids and PHEVs have regenerative braking, where the electric motors spin in reverse to slow the vehicle down without using the brakes. The vehicle's momentum creates energy, and your car converts that to battery power.
While it's not as common, some plug-in hybrids can use the DC fast charging networks around town, which can fully top off the smaller battery in around 25 minutes. Just know it'll be a slow charge for most while your fancy car sits in the garage with a regular plug. 4. No Range Anxiety
You can't plug in a regular hybrid to recharge the battery. The car does it for you, but that also means its primary power source is still gasoline, even if they're more efficient than a regular car. Related: Is Charging an EV Cheaper Than Filling a Car With Gas?