Only 26% of plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) sold across the top 20 models in the UK can use chargers with power of 50kW or more, according to recent analysis by ChargeUK. This raises concerns that many PHEVs are essentially "petrol cars pulling around a heavy battery."

Overview of PHEVs

The cars, which can operate on electric batteries as well as combustion engines, have been marketed by manufacturers as a solution for long-distance travel while still reducing emissions. However, the analysis reveals that 75% of the top-selling PHEVs, including models like the Jaecoo 7, Ford Kuga, and Hyundai Tucson, are unable to utilize rapid chargers.

These rapid chargers can significantly recharge a car battery in 20 to 30 minutes, making them ideal for quick stops at motorway service stations. In contrast, vehicles that cannot use these chargers are limited to much slower charging speeds, which could result in drivers facing waits of several hours to recharge mid-trip.

Industry Insights

Shane Brennan, the chief executive of ChargeUK, commented:

“

"A plug-in hybrid electric vehicle that is never plugged in is a costly petrol car pulling around a heavy battery. PHEV drivers unable to charge on the public charging network quickly fall into patterns of being petrol reliant."

Brennan also cautioned against the government being misled into believing that increasing PHEV sales is a meaningful step towards electrification, calling it a "spectacular own goal."

Environmental Concerns

Repeated studies have indicated that PHEVs emit significantly more pollution than official figures suggest. Despite this, the UK government allowed manufacturers to sell more PHEVs last year to meet their electric vehicle (EV) targets. In 2022, PHEVs were the fastest-growing type of car sold in the UK, with 227,000 registered, marking an increase of nearly 35% from the previous year. An additional 180,000 have been sold in the current year.