REEV vs PHEV vs Hybrid: What’s the Difference? A Simple Guide for Pakistan
The availability of electric vehicles (EVs) in Pakistan is growing by the month. Sellers throw around terms such as hybrid, PHEV and REEV. Each of them has a different meaning. Knowing your difference can save you from purchasing the right car.
Hybrid (HEV): A Petrol Car With a Helper
The hybrid includes a small battery and petrol engine. This battery self-charges during driving. You never plug it in. The electric motor assists the engine also and can drive the car for short distances. The Kia Sorento HEV and Kia’s new MG HS (Walking Stick) Hybrid+ drive in this manner.
Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV): Charge It or Fill It
A PHEV has a larger battery which is charged and has the ability to operate only on electricity for a single day’s journey. For some long journeys, the petrol engine is substituted, and it can also power the wheels. Some of the examples include Kia Sorento PHEV and Chery Tiggo 8 Super Hybrid. Chery offers up to 90 km of all-electric range for Tiggo 8.
Range-Extended EV (REEV): An EV With a Generator
A REEV is always powered by electric motors. It has a petrol motor but it does not power the wheels. It is only a generator with a low battery.
The XPeng L03 REEV costs Rs. 11.5 million ex-factory, with a claimed electric range of 250 km. The iCAUR V27 costs Rs. 12.499 million and 150 km of electric range. The Changan Nevo Hunter pickup has a price tag of Rs. 10.9 million.
Quick Comparison
| Hybrid (HEV) | Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV) | REEV | |
| Plug in? | No | Yes | Yes |
| What drives the wheels | Engine and motor | Engine and motor | Motors only |
| Electric-only range | Short stretches | Tens of km | 150 to 250 km claimed |
Which one do you fit?
- If you would like to avoid charging, pick a hybrid car.
- When you can, choose a PHEV if you want petrol as a back-up option.
- If you prefer the EV-like driving experience, but have thin trip times, opt for a REEV model.
What to Check Before You Buy?
Different brands state different test cycles; e.g. NEDC / CLTC. Real-world range is usually lower.
- The plug-in: If you charge the REEV or PHEV frequently it will save the most fuel. According to Pakwheels, plugging in frequently improves efficiency.
- Complexity: A REEV is equipped with an engine, fuel system and a large battery. Mechanically, it’s just more complicated than a pure EV.
- New energy vehicle sales tax rate is almost doubled by taxes in Chery, IMF is against a low tax rate. Always check final rates prior to booking.
Conclusion
The three labels may sound much alike, however they cater to a different consumer. Hybrids don’t require a charger. A PHEV incentivizes home charging. When the engine is used as the backup, the battery is used to assist with the REEV. Match the features of the car to the way you drive.
