What are Plug In Hybrids? Should You Buy One?

With an increasing focus on sustainability and a commitment to reducing carbon footprints, many drivers are looking for alternatives to traditional gasoline-powered vehicles. One of the most popular options is a plug-in hybrid.

Shop Hybrids
Benefits of Plug-in hybrids

What is a plug-in hybrid?

Plug in hybrid vehicles, or PHEVs, are designed to be powered both by gas and electricity. They have an internal combustion engine that runs on gas or diesel and they also have a battery. 

The battery power lasts between 20-50 miles, depending on which plug in hybrid SUV, car, or van you’re driving, and is ideal for shorter trips such as grocery shopping, school drop off and pick up, and short commutes. 

According to Best Places, 70.7% of commuters drive alone in their car, and 10.4% of commuters carpool. The average one-way commute in Richmond, VA is approximately 22 minutes, so you may be able to drive at least one way, if not both ways, on battery power alone!

Battery recharging doesn’t require a huge time commitment either. A PHEV plugs easily into a socket. According to the Department of Transportation, it takes a level 1 charger approximately 5-6 hours to charge a plug in hybrid. It takes a level 2 charger approximately 1-2 hours.

Because you have the benefit of both electric and gas power, you can begin your drive using the battery, and if you need to drive a longer distance, the gas engine will take over once the battery runs out. You'll never have to worry about getting stranded if the battery isn’t charged! 

Benefits of PHEV SUVs, Cars, and Vans

Experience these exclusive benefits of owning a plug-in hybrid.

2024 Jeep Grand Cherokee 4XE

Fuel Efficiency

Fuel efficiency is another great benefit of opting to drive a PHEV SUV, car, or van. According to the Department of Energy and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), plug in hybrids use approximately 30-60% less petroleum than traditional vehicles. Because you can drive shorter distances on battery power only, you aren’t using as much gas on a regular basis as traditional gas-powered vehicles. When driving longer distances, the vehicle can run on electricity first, so you save on gas during these trips as well. This means you can spend less time and money stopping to fill the gas tank.

DODGE HORNET R/T PLUS

Less Frequent Service

Plug in hybrids require less service than traditional gas vehicles because they don’t need oil changes, filter changes, and other basic maintenance as often, saving you time and money. And because PHEV SUVs, cars, and vans use regenerative braking - converting braking energy into electrical energy to recharge the battery - you can extend the lifespan of your brake pads and won’t need to change them as frequently.

Mazda CX-70

Savings Opportunities & Reduced Emissions

One of the biggest benefits of driving a plug in hybrid vehicle is that when you’re using battery power, the vehicle isn’t expelling any emissions, making these vehicles better for the environment.

With lower maintenance frequency and savings at the gas pump, plug in hybrids are a smart option for long-term savings. You may also be able to reduce the upfront and monthly costs with available tax incentives or credits. PHEV SUVs, cars, and vans are good for both the environment and your wallet!

Plug-In Hybrid vs Hybrid vs Electric

There are two other fuel-efficient vehicle options in addition to plug in hybrids: hybrids and electric. 

Hybrid cars don’t need to be plugged in as they rely on regenerative braking and the gas engine to charge the battery, but they are designed with a smaller battery than a plug in hybrid.

Electric vehicles run solely on battery power, so they need to be fully charged. They have driving ranges of a few hundred miles or more but there’s no backup power with an EV. If the battery does die, you can’t drive until it’s charged. 

PHEV SUVs, cars, and vans bridge the gap between these two, making them a smart choice for drivers who like the reliability of a gas engine and want the sustainability of battery power. 

Should You Get a Plug-In Hybrid?

Is a plug-in hybrid right for you? If you have a short commute or mostly drive around town, a PHEV car, SUV, or van is a great investment. You’ll save money both on gas and service, and you’ll be able to drive primarily on battery power. When you need to drive for longer, you’ll have peace of mind knowing that the gas engine will take over once the electricity has been used up. Whether driving long or short distances, taking advantage of the excellent fuel efficiency is appealing.


Because there’s such a wide variety of available plug in hybrids, there’s something for every driver. In our inventory, you’ll find a selection of cars, SUVs, and vans that provide the PHEV benefits you’re looking for plus the space, storage, and features you need.

Shop for Plug-In Hybrid SUVs, Cars, and Vans

Now is a great time to explore Whitten Brothers Automotive’s selection of plug in hybrids available for drivers from Richmond and Ashland to Charlottesville and Petersburg, VA. Whether you’re looking for a PHEV SUV, car, or van, our Sales Advocates are here to help. Explore our plug-in hybrid inventory online, then contact us to learn more, or visit one of our showrooms to take one on a test drive.

Jeep Grand Cherokee 4XE

Saved Vehicles

You don't have any saved vehicles!

Look for this Save icon

Once you've saved some vehicles, you can view them here at any time.

My Cars

Your cars are empty.
Save some vehicles to get started!
Whitten Brothers Automotive , .