Are you considering switching to more environmentally friendly mobility, but the idea of all-electric still seems premature? A hybrid car is an excellent alternative. It combines a traditional internal combustion engine and an electric motor, offering flexibility and peace of mind for your daily commutes.
But concretely, how do you charge a hybrid car?
What is a hybrid car? How does it work?
In short, a hybrid car contains two engines: an internal combustion engine and an electric motor. The combination of these two engines reduces fuel consumption by using electricity during the most energy-intensive driving phases: acceleration, starting, and moments when the car must constantly stop and restart, such as in traffic jams.
This allows for significant savings at the pump. However, there are three levels of hybridization, each offering a different degree of fuel economy.
| Type of hybrid car | Self-recharging electric car | Savings compared to a fossil fuel car |
|---|---|---|
| Mild Hybrid | Yes | Approximately 10% |
| Standard Hybrid | Yes | Approximately 40% |
| Plug-in Hybrid | No | Approximately 75% |
Two types of hybrids: plug-in, non-plug-in
There are two types of hybrid cars: the plug-in hybrid car (or PHEV, for "Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle") and the electric car that recharges while driving. As their names suggest, one needs to be charged while the other is autonomous.
As for which is more suitable between hybrid and plug-in hybrid, it depends on your needs and desires. Here's how they work:
Simple Hybrid: how does a hybrid car recharge while driving?
The simple hybrid (or non-rechargeable hybrid car) works without needing to plug into an electrical outlet. It can travel a few kilometers in electric mode to assist the internal combustion engine. Like plug-in hybrids, it has two engines, but its electric motor is only used as a supplement, and its battery generally does not exceed 2 kWh.
The battery recharges automatically by gathering kinetic energy generated during braking deceleration. Thus, there is no need to recharge the battery.
Some examples of non-plug-in hybrid models
Here are some examples of non-plug-in hybrid car models by release year:
- Toyota Corolla Hybrid (2018)
- Renault Clio E-Tech Hybrid (2020)
- Honda Jazz e:HEV (2020)
- Nissan Qashqai e-Power (2022)
- Suzuki Vitara Full Hybrid (2023)
Plug-in Hybrid: how does a plug-in hybrid (or PHEV) work?
What is a plug-in hybrid? This one works not only by recharging automatically through kinetic energy but also via external charging, like 100% electric cars. The plug-in hybrid car has a much more powerful battery offering a much greater range than a simple hybrid.
As for how to charge an electric car, various options are available to you:
- A reinforced socket using a traditional domestic system,
- A wall-mounted charging station installed at home,
- A public charging station
Some examples of plug-in hybrid models
Here are some examples of plug-in hybrid car models by release year:
- Peugeot 3008 Hybrid4 (2019)
- Ford Kuga PHEV (2020)
- Toyota Prius 5 (2023)
- Opel Astra PHEV (2023)
- BMW 5 Series G60 PHEV (2024)
What are the solutions for charging your plug-in hybrid car?
As we saw earlier, it is possible to charge a plug-in hybrid PHEV in three different ways. Here's how to charge a hybrid car depending on the different types of connections, whether individual or public:
On a reinforced power outlet
Here is the most economical option, both in the short and long term, for charging a plug-in hybrid car: the reinforced wall socket. It is a casing installed around a classic wall socket. It works with a traditional Type E power cord, while offering much more safety than a classic domestic socket, which could overheat under a heavy load.
The reinforced socket can be suitable for small batteries, which can be charged quickly. However, it will be insufficient to fully charge an electric vehicle for long journeys.
On a home wallbox
The home wall-mounted charging station is the most used solution by plug-in hybrid car drivers because it offers the best balance between practicality and charging cost. Its installation, which is relatively complex, must be carried out by a certified technician, unlike a reinforced socket.
Please note that AMP IT offers a reinforced socket installation service as well as solutions to finance this installation. The installation process is thus made simpler and more affordable for tenants.
The wallbox, which uses its own electrical current, provides charging power of up to 22 kW, allowing a vehicle to be charged for long journeys. It is compatible with both hybrid vehicles and 100% electric cars.
On a public charging station
Public charging stations are very convenient as they are now found in most car parks, garages and other motorway rest areas. They allow you to quickly charge a hybrid or 100% electric vehicle, in an emergency or when you do not have access to your wall socket.
Public AC (alternating current) charging stations can reach 22 kW, a power that will always be compatible with hybrid cars. If the car does not support the load, the speed will be reduced, but it will still be possible to charge.
DC (direct current) charging stations can charge up to 350 kW. In this case, PHEVs cannot be charged.
Comparison of times and costs for charging a hybrid car
As you might expect, the time and cost of charging a hybrid car vary considerably depending on whether you use a domestic socket or a public charging station. Pricing can be very different from one charging station to another, and in some cases, vary from single to triple.
Furthermore, know that the charging time largely depends on the vehicle model (a Toyota RAV4 takes twice as long to charge as a Peugeot 308). But we have compiled a general average, assuming you have subscribed to a peak/off-peak hours plan and that home charging is done during off-peak hours. Here's what that looks like:
| Type of charging | Average cost (0 to 100% charge) | Average charging time |
|---|---|---|
| At home (22 kW charger) | Between 1.50 and 5 CHF | Between 1h40 (2 kWh battery) and 3h (9 kWh battery) |
| At a public charging station (DC direct current) | >10 CHF | From 45 minutes to 1h30 |
Conclusions:
- ✅ Charging a hybrid car at a home charging station is much more economical, especially if done during off-peak hours.
- ✅ Charging at a public station, while much faster, should only be preferred in emergencies, as it is significantly more expensive and leads to faster battery wear.
Hybrid car: advantages and disadvantages
Even though it represents an interesting compromise between a fossil fuel vehicle and a 100% electric vehicle, the hybrid car is not perfect. Here are its advantages and disadvantages:
What are the advantages of a hybrid car?
- ✅ Hybrid car = increased autonomy: you can still use your hybrid car without recharging. Even if the electric battery is empty, you can continue driving thanks to the internal combustion engine.
- ✅ Reduced consumption: a hybrid vehicle consumes less fuel than a fossil fuel vehicle, which can represent significant savings in the long run.
- ✅ Fewer parts to maintain: some hybrid cars do not contain a starter, gearbox, or timing belt, which reduces maintenance costs.
What are the disadvantages of a hybrid car?
- It's still quite expensive: on average 20% more than a fossil fuel vehicle. If you don't plan to use your car regularly, you won't get a return on this investment.
- It's heavy: due to the two onboard engines, the vehicle is not lightweight.
- No use outside the city: the electric motor is mainly useful when it takes over from the internal combustion engine during constant starting and stopping phases, i.e., mainly in the city.
- Demanding equipment: hybrid systems have their own components, such as the high-voltage battery and electric motors, which may also require maintenance or replacement in the future.
Frequently asked questions about hybrid cars
Which is better, hybrid or plug-in hybrid?
The plug-in hybrid is more suitable for short daily trips because it can run on 100% electric power, provided it is charged regularly. The conventional hybrid, on the other hand, is simpler to manage.
How long can a hybrid car remain idle?
A hybrid car can remain idle for 1 to 2 months without too much risk, provided the battery remains well charged. However, it is recommended to start the vehicle every 2-3 weeks for 15-20 minutes and drive it a bit. Also, avoid leaving the car immobilized for too long in winter.
Does a hybrid car consume less than a petrol car?
Yes, in general, a hybrid car consumes less fuel than a conventional petrol car, especially in the city, thanks to electric assistance and regenerative braking. In urban driving, fuel savings can reach between 30-50% depending on the model and driving style.