1. Battery Capacity: The main difference between a normal hybrid and a PHEV lies in the size and capacity of the battery. PHEVs have larger batteries compared to normal hybrids, allowing them to store more electrical energy.
2. Charging: Normal hybrids charge their batteries solely through regenerative braking and the combustion engine. PHEVs, on the other hand, can be plugged into an external power source to charge their batteries, offering the ability to operate for a certain distance purely on electric power before switching to the gasoline engine.
3. Electric Range: Normal hybrids can operate in both electric and gasoline modes, but their electric range is typically limited to a few miles due to their smaller battery capacity. In contrast, PHEVs can travel several miles solely on electric power before the gasoline engine kicks in. The exact electric range varies depending on the specific PHEV model.
4. Fuel Efficiency: Both normal hybrids and PHEVs offer better fuel efficiency compared to conventional gasoline-only vehicles. However, due to the larger battery capacity and the ability to travel on pure electric power for a longer distance, PHEVs generally provide superior fuel efficiency compared to normal hybrids.
5. Charging Requirements: Normal hybrids do not require external charging, as their batteries recharge automatically through regenerative braking and the combustion engine. PHEVs, on the other hand, need to be plugged in to an external power source regularly to maintain their electric range.
In summary, the main difference between a normal hybrid and a plug-in hybrid lies in the larger battery capacity of PHEVs and their ability to be plugged in for external charging. This enables PHEVs to travel longer distances purely on electric power and enhances their fuel efficiency compared to normal hybrids.
