Plug-in hybrid electric vehicles have an electric motor AND a gas-powered engine. They will typically operate exclusively, or almost exclusively, on electricity until the battery is nearly depleted, before switching to the gas-powered engine. The electric battery range will vary from vehicle to vehicle and depend on how you drive.

Plug-in hybrid EVs tend to cost less to purchase than all-electric vehicles, but come with more operating expenses. You’ll still have to buy some gas and will require typical gas engine maintenance such as oil changes.

Charging Options: Plug-in hybrid electric vehicles can be charged using Level 1 and 2 chargers. Certain models can be charged at Level 3 chargers. Check your owner’s manual before using a Level 3.

Hybrid vehicles have a small electric motor AND a gas-powered engine, and do not plug-in for charging. Hybrid vehicles use gas as their main power source, and generate electricity for the electric motor through regenerative braking. There are minimal fuel savings for hybrid vehicles when compared to all-electric or plug-in hybrid electric vehicles. The information on this site does not pertain to hybrid vehicles.

Provides charging through a 240 volt plug and requires installation of charging equipment by a qualified electrician. Level 2 chargers typically deliver up to 30 km of range per hour of charging. A full charge can take approximately 2 hours for a plug-in hybrid and approximately 9 hours for an all-electric vehicle, depending on the vehicle model and range. Level 2 charging is used in homes, workplaces and public places like shopping malls.

Vehicle Options: All-electric and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles can use Level 2 chargers. All-electric owners typically install a Level 2 charger at home.

Delivers charging through a 480 volt plug and requires specialized, high-powered charging equipment. Level 3 chargers typically deliver 80-100 km of range in 15 minutes or 160-200 km in 30 minutes. These chargers deliver enough power to charge most EVs to 80% in less than an hour. Level 3 charging is used in public charging stations often found along highways and in other high traffic areas.

Vehicle Options: Level 3 chargers can be used by most all-electric and select plug-in hybrid electric vehicles.