The plug-in hybrid conundrum

Plug-in.

Ignorance keeps the plug-in hybrid on the sideline. Let me explain.

I had a very interesting, as well as frustrating, conversation with two acquaintances yesterday. One, up to “here” with the price of gas, just traded for a hybrid. The other already drives a hybrid, which came to light later in the conversation.

I asked if the new purchase was a plug-in. The answer was no, it is a hybrid! Needless to say, it took a great deal of explanation to get to an understanding that there actually is such a thing as a hybrid vehicle, complete with a gas engine that can also be plugged in!

Here’s how he framed it: “You mean there are four possibilities:

1. a gas powered car (I opted to ignore diesel);
2. a car with a battery and a gas engine,
3. a car with a battery that can be plugged in and a gas engine, and
4. an all electric car?”

Well of course the answer is yes, but the question is, why is this still such a mystery?

Plug-in history

Plug-in technology was first introduced in 2008 in China, and the 2010 Chevy Volt was technically the first U.S plug-in, but the most common plug-in type was first brought to market in a Toyota Prius in 2012. Fourteen years, and still the technology remains a mystery.

And I believe I know why.

The resistance

I sold cars for a short period, and for a Toyota dealer, and recall that the company offered a truly great deal on the plug-in model. Why? Because they weren’t selling!

And I recall one customer on the phone who wanted a Prius. I offered the plug-in deal and he was adamant that he did not want something that had to be plugged in. He would not listen to the explanation that plugging-in was not required!

I think that there were two issues in this case. It “felt” like this customer was being forced into a hybrid — maybe by a spouse — he didn’t really want, and taking the step to plug-in was just a step too far.

In truth, I now understand that there is an entrenched belief that a plug-in car must be plugged in! In truth, a plug-in hybrid will operate like any other hybrid once the battery’s energy is sufficiently low.

Confusion

This needs to be communicated!

And it doesn’t help that Genesis calls its line of electric vehicles (EVs) “electrified”. This just confuses things. Hybrids are electrified, EVs are electric!

But beyond this, I have come to believe that, despite the simplicity, the idea of plugging in is a bridge too far for much of the public. Even if they did understand that its not required, they want to drive the car, park the car, and leave it at that.

Despite the fact that their driving needs may allow them to never, ever touch a wheel at a gas station, it’s what they’re used to.

We are all, after all, creatures of habit, at least to some extent.

——————————————————————-

The material on these pages is provided for information sharing purposes only and should not be used in lieu of an OEM service manual or factory authorized service procedure. We are not in the auto repair business, nor do we publish automotive service manuals. Nothing we include on these pages and posts has been reviewed, approved or authorized by any vehicle manufacturer.

Remember — only proper service and repair procedures will ensure the safe and reliable operation of your car. In addition, proper safety procedures and precautions, such as the use of safety goggles, the right tools and the equipment should be followed at all times to eliminate the possibility of personal injury or improper service which could damage the vehicle or compromise its safety.

Technology is always changing and what is current and accurate today may be literally out-of-date and inaccurate tomorrow. And when it comes to the current state of flux in the auto industry, nothing is more true.

Privacy Policy