Self Charging VS Plug-in hybrid differences. Which one is right for you?

You are looking for a greener and more efficient car, you might be considering a hybrid vehicle. Hybrid cars are partially electrified vehicles that have the benefit of a petrol or diesel engine to rely on if they lose electric charge. This means they are cleaner than normal petrol or diesel cars, yet with more range than a 100% electric vehicle.

But, which type of hybrid car is better for you – self-charging (HEV) or plug-in (PHEV)? In this blog post, we will explore the key differences and benefits of each option, using the new UK Honda CR-V that is coming out later in 2023 as an example.

The new Honda CR-V self-charging hybrid will have a 2.0-litre petrol engine and two electric motors, one for propulsion and one for generating electricity. It will also have an intelligent Multi-Mode Drive (i-MMD) system that automatically switches between three driving modes: EV Drive, Hybrid Drive and Engine Drive. Find out more >

What is a self-charging hybrid?

A self-charging hybrid is one you can’t plug in to charge the batteries separately. Instead, on-board systems top up the batteries as you drive, via energy recovery during braking and the combustion engine itself. More self charing hybrid info >

What is a plug-in hybrid?

A plug-in hybrid is more complex. It has a bigger battery than a self-charging hybrid and can cover around 30 miles in full electric mode without the need for a charge or to switch to petrol/diesel mode. The battery can be recharged using a home charge point or by taking advantage of the expanding public charging network. The new CR-V plug-in hybrid will provide up to 50 miles of full electric drive, once depleted it will drive just on petrol engine as normal.

What are the pros and cons of each option?

There are many factors to consider when choosing between a self-charging hybrid and a plug-in hybrid, such as your driving habits, budget, environmental impact and personal preference. Here are some of the main pros and cons of each option:

Self-charging hybrid pros and cons

Pros:

Familiarity: A self-charging hybrid is very similar to a conventional car in terms of driving experience and maintenance. You don’t have to worry about plugging in or finding a charging point.
Efficiency: The electric motor helps to improve fuel economy and reduce emissions, especially in stop-start city traffic. The new Honda CR-V e:HEV self-charing hybrid delivers a fuel efficiency of 4.8litres per 62 miles.
Simplicity: A self-charging hybrid has fewer components than a plug-in hybrid, which means less weight, less cost and less potential for problems.

Cons:

Limited electric range: A self-charging hybrid can only run on electric power for short distances, usually less than two miles. This means you won’t be able to enjoy the full benefits of zero-emission driving or save as much on fuel costs as with a plug-in hybrid.
Higher emissions: A self-charging hybrid still relies on a petrol or diesel engine as its primary means of propulsion, which means it will emit more CO2 and other pollutants than a plug-in hybrid or an electric car.

Plug-in hybrid pros and cons

Pros:

More electric range: A plug-in hybrid can cover more miles in full electric mode without the need for a charge or to switch to petrol/diesel mode. This means you can enjoy the benefits of zero-emission driving for longer distances and save more on fuel costs. The new Honda CR-V plug-in hybrid will have an estimated electric range of 50 miles (WLTP cycle).
Lower emissions: A plug-in hybrid emits less CO2 and other pollutants than a self-charging hybrid or a conventional car, especially if you charge it from renewable sources. The new Honda CR-V plug-in hybrid will have an estimated CO2 emissions of 18 g/km (WLTP cycle).
More incentives: A plug-in hybrid qualifies for some government grants and tax benefits that are available for electric cars, such as the Plug-in Car Grant, the Electric Vehicle Homecharge Scheme and the reduced Benefit in Kind tax for company car drivers.

Cons:

Complexity: A plug-in hybrid has more components than a self-charging hybrid, which means more weight, more cost and more potential for problems. It also requires more maintenance and servicing than a self-charging hybrid or an electric car.
Charging: A plug-in hybrid needs to be plugged in regularly to make the most of its electric range and efficiency. This means you need to have access to a home charge point or a public charging network, which may not be convenient or available everywhere.

Which one is right for you?

The choice between a self-charging hybrid and a plug-in hybrid depends on your personal needs and preferences. Here are some questions to help you decide:

How often do you drive and how far do you go? If you mainly drive short distances in urban areas, a self-charging hybrid may be sufficient for your needs. If you frequently drive longer distances or on motorways, a plug-in hybrid may be more suitable for you.
How easy is it for you to charge your car? If you have access to a home charge point or a public charging network, a plug-in hybrid may be more convenient and cost-effective for you. If you don’t have access to a charging point or don’t want to deal with the hassle of plugging in, a self-charging hybrid may be more practical for you.
How much do you care about the environment and saving money? If you are concerned about reducing your carbon footprint and saving money on fuel and tax, a plug-in hybrid may be the best option for you. If you are not too bothered about these factors, a self-charging hybrid may be enough for you.

Conclusion

Hybrid cars are a great way to enjoy the benefits of electrification without compromising on range or performance. Whether you choose a self-charging hybrid or a plug-in hybrid, you will be able to drive more efficiently and cleanly than with a conventional car.

The new Honda CR-V will offer both options, so you can choose the one that suits your lifestyle and budget. Both the self-charging hybrid and the plug-in hybrid will be available in late 2023 .

What are the differences between the self charging hybrid and the plug-in hybrid CR-V models?

The new CR-V comes with a new rugged design, luxurious interiors and intuitive technology. And for the very first time, it’s available in two models: the CR-V e:HEV full hybrid and the CR-V e:PHEV, plug-in hybrid.

There are a few exterior, driving & feature differences between both models, be sure to give our short video a watch which highlights the main differences.

To find out more about the new Honda CR-V hybrid models, click the link below or contact us today.

Explore New CR-V

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