What is the Difference Between an EV and a PHEV?
As of late, there are more and more electric vehicle options available for purchase. However, there are distinct differences between plug-in hybrid electric vehicles and fully electric vehicles, known as PHEVs and EVs. Pohanka Lexus is receiving both of these options as a part of our inventory so we’ve prepared this article where we will outline what is the difference between an EV and a PHEV. If you have any questions or would like to schedule EV or PHEV maintenance, contact us.
EV
Electric vehicles are powered solely by a battery that you can charge at home or in various public locations. There are three charging levels. Level 1 charging1 is performed from the comfort of your home through any outlet. You acquire an average of four miles of range for every hour2 it is connected to your power source. Level 2 charging can also be achieved from home through the installation of a 240-volt power station. Most public locations offer Level 2 charging at their stations so you can juice up your battery while you’re shopping, studying, or visiting the gym. Finally, there is Level 3 charging, or DC fast charging. This option is exclusive to EVs and uses direct charge that gives you three miles of power per minute it is charged2. If this option, which is more environmentally friendly than gas engines, appeals to you, the available Lexus RZ is the luxury large SUV for you.
PHEV
The next options are plug-in hybrid electric vehicles. These models, such as the NXh+ or the RXh+, unites the benefits of an electric automobile and a gas-powered engine to prolong the trips you’d take. With PHEVs, you can only make use of Level 1 charging1 or Level 2 charging. DC fast charging injects power directly to the vehicle’s battery at an extremely fast rate. EVs are equipped with a stronger battery and a higher voltage to be able to withstand this injection of electricity, while a PHEV is not equipped to withstand this. With Lexus models, one battery in a long-range EV has the same amount of charge as six PHEVs. This option will limit the amount of time you spend both at the pump and connected to the wall charging. You can use the short range provided by charging your PHEV for limited trips in your near proximity and utilize the gas-engine-provided mileage for longer drives. To view our options of PHEVs and EVs available, visit our Inventory page online or stop by our sales lot.
Service Maintenance
Because PHEVs have gas engines, they require most well-known services that gas-powered models need such as oil changes, transmission fluid replacements, and oil filter changes. However, with the addition of the battery component, you also need battery maintenance to ensure it is properly cooling, holds the right amount of charge, and more. EVs need only battery maintenance and any exterior replacements like tire changes, rotations, wheel alignments, and brake repairs. All of these services can be performed within our service center, courtesy of our experienced Lexus maintenance technicians. Schedule EV and PHEV maintenance using our online form!
What PHEV and EV Options Does Lexus Offer?
- Lexus RZ fully electric
- Lexus NXh+ plug-in hybrid
- Lexus RXh+ plug-in hybrid
Dealership Information
1. Charging time may be longer using standard 120V outlet. Always plug in/charge vehicle in accordance with Owner's Manual.
2. Use for comparison purposes only. Actual range will vary significantly depending on charging and driving conditions, including outside temperature, speed, accessory use, how/where you drive, battery condition and other factors. See www.fueleconomy.gov and Owner's Manual for details.
