Learn What a Plug-In Hybrid Electric HEV) Means
Learn What a Plug-In Hybrid Electric HEV) Means
Posted on June 2, 2025
If you’ve been hearing more about PHEVs lately, you're not alone. The Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV) is quickly gaining popularity across Canada and for good reason. A PHEV blends the benefits of a traditional gas-powered vehicle with the clean efficiency of an electric motor. It’s essentially a bridge between fully electric vehicles (EVs) and conventional hybrids, giving drivers more flexibility without sacrificing performance.
A Closer Look at PHEVs
Here’s how it works: a PHEV runs on both a gasoline engine and an electric motor. Unlike a standard hybrid, it features a larger rechargeable battery that you can plug in to charge—at home or at a public charging station. When the battery is charged, the vehicle can operate in all-electric mode for a certain distance, often enough to cover daily commutes or errands. Once that electric range is used up, the gas engine kicks in seamlessly, giving you peace of mind for longer trips without worrying about charging infrastructure.
The Benefits of Driving a PHEV
The biggest benefit of a PHEV is efficiency. For drivers who mostly take short trips, a PHEV allows you to drive almost entirely on electric power, significantly lowering your fuel costs and reducing your environmental footprint. Even if you forget to plug it in, you’re not stranded, your vehicle simply switches to using its gas engine like a traditional hybrid.
You also get the advantage of quieter operation when driving in electric mode and fewer emissions overall. For many Canadian drivers, especially those in urban settings like Halifax, a PHEV is a practical and environmentally responsible choice that doesn’t require the same lifestyle adjustments as a fully electric vehicle.
Another plus? Government incentives. PHEVs often qualify for federal and provincial rebates, making them more affordable than you might expect.
Are There Any Drawbacks?
While PHEVs offer the best of both worlds, there are a few things to keep in mind. Because they carry both an electric motor and a gas engine, they tend to weigh more than traditional vehicles, which can impact performance slightly. Some models also offer less electric-only range compared to full EVs, so drivers looking for longer battery-powered travel might need to plug in more frequently.
There’s also the charging requirement—though not mandatory, plugging in regularly ensures you get the full benefit of your PHEV’s electric range. If you don’t have a home charging solution or convenient access to public chargers, it may limit how much you rely on electric driving.
Best Lifestyles for a PHEV
PHEVs are an excellent fit for a wide range of drivers. If your daily drive is short, think commuting to work, running errands, or school drop-offs, you could go days or even weeks without using gas. Yet when it’s time for a weekend road trip or a visit to friends out of town, the gas engine takes over without a hitch.
They're ideal for families, commuters, or anyone who wants to start lowering their fuel consumption without making the leap to fully electric living.
Explore Mitsubishi’s Lineup of PHEVs
At Steele Mitsubishi in Halifax, NS, you’ll find a growing lineup of plug-in hybrid vehicles that balance capability, comfort, and low emissions. The Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV stands out as one of Canada’s top-selling plug-in hybrid SUVs, offering up to 61 kilometres of all-electric driving and a total combined range of up to 687 kilometres. With its spacious interior, standard Super All-Wheel Control (S-AWC) system, and smooth transition between power sources, it’s a smart pick for Nova Scotia’s varied driving conditions.
Visit Steele Mitsubishi to Learn More
Interested in learning more about how a PHEV fits into your life? Come visit Steele Mitsubishi in Halifax, NS, and speak with our team. We’re happy to answer your questions, walk you through current offers, and get you behind the wheel of a plug-in hybrid that suits your lifestyle. Whether you're new to electrified driving or ready to make the switch, we’re here to help you get started.