What is the difference between a hybrid and a plug-in hybrid?

A hybrid takes all its energy from fuel; its small battery is filled by the engine and by braking. A plug-in hybrid also charges from the grid, so everyday distances can run on electricity.

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eMobility and EV basics · Stop 01What makes a car electric?Hybrid, plug-in hybrid, battery electric, fuel cell: what each one carries on board, and how often each was registered in the EU in 2025.

Electric on a tailgate can mean very different things. The difference is not the motor, it is where the energy comes from.

From “One word, several technologies”, stop 01

Terms

  1. Plug-in hybridA hybrid with a socket and a larger battery, so everyday distances can run on grid electricity and longer trips on fuel.
  1. What is the difference between LFP and NMC batteries?NMC stores more energy per kilogram. LFP contains no cobalt and costs less: in 2025, LFP packs were on average more than 40% cheaper per kWh.
  2. What is the difference between kW and kWh?kWh is an amount of energy, for example what the battery holds. kW is a rate, how fast energy flows; time equals energy divided by power.
  3. Why does range drop on the motorway?Air drag grows with the square of speed, and the power needed with its cube. Above about 100 km/h, it dominates consumption.
  4. Why do electric cars lose range in winter?Heating the cabin takes energy, and a cold battery works less efficiently. In a Norwegian winter test, 23 cars lost 21.7% on average against their WLTP range.