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Plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) have carved out a unique space in the automotive world, offering a blend of electric and gasoline power. For many drivers, especially in the current landscape of evolving EV infrastructure, the Best Phevs might represent the smartest choice. My personal journey with a Jeep Wrangler 4xe, a plug-in hybrid model, has illuminated both the compelling advantages and the existing challenges of PHEVs, providing valuable insights for anyone considering this type of vehicle. Initially drawn to the Wrangler 4xe because of the federal EV tax credit, I soon discovered that the motivations for choosing a PHEV extend far beyond financial incentives.
The Jeep Wrangler 4xe’s popularity speaks volumes about the appeal of PHEVs. In 2022, it became the best-selling plug-in hybrid in the U.S., surpassing numerous more conventional and economical cars. This success, with the 4xe constituting nearly a quarter of all Wrangler sales, isn’t merely a fluke. It reflects a broader trend: drivers are increasingly recognizing the practical benefits that the best PHEVs offer. After driving my Wrangler 4xe for over 6,000 miles in a year, I’ve gained a firsthand understanding of the realities of PHEV ownership, from the quirks of urban EV charging to the unexpected perks and the broader implications for the future of electric vehicles.
Understanding PHEV Nuances: Range and Expectations
It’s crucial to acknowledge that not all plug-in hybrids are created equal. The term “plug-in hybrid” itself doesn’t automatically equate to exceptional electric range or outstanding combined fuel economy. The Jeep Wrangler 4xe serves as a prime illustration of this point. Entering into PHEV ownership with open eyes is essential. Driving a substantial vehicle like the Wrangler, with its considerable weight and less-than-aerodynamic design, using a modest 17kWh battery was never going to result in extensive electric driving range. Yet, the reality can still be somewhat sobering when you observe the battery percentage declining rapidly even on short trips around town. In EV mode, the Wrangler 4xe typically delivers just over 20 miles of range. My overall fuel efficiency over 6,000 miles averages around 23 mpg. While this is arguably better than purely gasoline-powered Wrangler models, the improvement isn’t dramatic.
However, even with these limitations, the value of a PHEV becomes apparent in daily use. For short commutes within a city like NYC, driving solely on battery power provides a noticeably more peaceful and refined experience compared to constantly engaging the gasoline engine. The Wrangler, known for its ruggedness, isn’t particularly renowned for sound insulation, making EV mode a welcome respite. Furthermore, operating in electric mode, even for limited distances, contributes to reducing urban pollution, however incrementally. Even when the gasoline engine is active, the hybrid system enhances efficiency by allowing the engine to shut off more frequently than in traditional start/stop systems. It deactivates during coasting and even for brief periods when starting from a standstill.
Beyond efficiency considerations, the hybrid powertrain in the Wrangler 4xe delivers a significant performance boost compared to other Wrangler variants. With 375 horsepower and 470 lb.-ft of torque, the PHEV powertrain provides ample power for navigating hilly terrain, overtaking on highways, and accelerating quickly onto busy city roads. Contrary to some misconceptions, the electric motor’s power remains accessible even when the battery charge indicator reads zero, ensuring consistent performance.
While PHEVs might not be the ultimate solution for maximum efficiency, they bring tangible benefits to the driving experience.
Despite criticisms regarding “compliance hybrids,” manufacturers like Jeep are continuing to invest in PHEV technology. Since my Wrangler 4xe purchase, Jeep has introduced more accessible trims like the Willy’s 4xe and expanded the PHEV lineup with models like the Grand Cherokee 4xe, utilizing the same powertrain and similar efficiency profiles. While fully electric Jeep models are anticipated in the coming years, PHEVs are expected to remain a significant part of their offerings. It’s easy to be cynical about PHEVs with limited electric range and moderate fuel economy, questioning their impact on transitioning away from fossil fuels. However, they play a crucial role in familiarizing the public with the concept of plugging in vehicles – a significant step, particularly among traditional gasoline vehicle enthusiasts.
The Unexpected Perk: Prime Parking with PHEVs
An often-overlooked advantage of PHEV ownership is the access to preferential parking spots. While the limited electric range of the Wrangler 4xe might not always justify seeking out charging stations solely for charging purposes, the availability of EV charging spots in prime parking locations is a definite perk. Airports frequently designate EV charging spaces near terminal elevators. Retailers like Ikea often position EV parking closer to store entrances, a significant convenience in large parking lots. Many ski resorts offer prime parking for EVs, often adjacent to paid premium parking areas, but free for electric vehicles. Even cities like NYC, with their curbside charging initiatives, indirectly offer a better chance of securing street parking for PHEVs in certain neighborhoods.
While not the primary reason to own a PHEV, the convenience of premium parking is an undeniable benefit.
While taking advantage of these prime EV charging spots, it’s impossible to ignore the potential impact on drivers of fully electric vehicles who genuinely rely on charging infrastructure to extend their range. There’s a slight sense of guilt in occupying a charging spot when a Rivian or Tesla might have a more pressing need for battery replenishment. However, in the current system, parking etiquette often follows a “first come, first served” principle. As a PHEV owner with a charging connector, there’s a valid claim to these spaces. Furthermore, PHEVs certainly have more right to these spots than gasoline cars that frequently obstruct EV chargers, a particularly acute problem in densely populated areas like NYC.
The Frustrating Reality: Public EV Charging Infrastructure
Despite the increasing installation of EV chargers in urban environments over the past year, significant challenges persist in public EV charging infrastructure. Issues such as broken chargers, non-operational stations, chargers blocked by non-electric vehicles, and overcrowded charging locations remain prevalent. A unified, user-friendly system for locating available, functional public chargers is still lacking. The diverse range of payment systems – per hour, per kWh, or hybrid models – and the often-variable pricing structures, which can sometimes exceed the cost of gasoline, add to the complexity and frustration.
NYC, despite being the most densely populated city in the U.S. and grappling with vehicle emissions, exemplifies the inadequacy of current charging infrastructure. The city’s support for EVs appears disproportionately low given its environmental concerns. Private garages often impose substantial monthly fees for EV charging, sometimes 20% higher than standard parking rates, and even then, the number of chargers is limited relative to the parking capacity.
The public EV charging infrastructure in NYC, and many other cities, remains woefully inadequate.
For those who don’t have access to private garage parking, public charging options in NYC are strikingly limited. There are a mere 35 public curbside charging stations across all five boroughs, primarily concentrated in just three, offering a slow 6.2kW charge at a cost of $1 to $2.50 per hour. Furthermore, there are only six public DC Fast charging stations in the entire city. In stark contrast, Manhattan alone still has 18 gas stations. For a city of 9 million residents, this minimal investment in public EV charging is concerning and stands as a major deterrent for widespread EV adoption.
PHEV as a Stepping Stone: Why Full EV Isn’t Always the Answer Now
My experience owning a PHEV has ultimately tempered my enthusiasm for transitioning to a full electric vehicle in the immediate future. Like many tech-forward individuals, I initially considered an EV. However, opting for a PHEV first has proven to be a valuable learning experience, revealing both the advantages and disadvantages of EV-adjacent living without the complete reliance on EV infrastructure. Having the ability to plug in and charging regularly has highlighted the practical challenges of EV ownership, particularly in a city like NYC and given my driving habits.
My driving patterns involve either short trips within the city or long drives out of it, often 200 to 250 miles in a single stretch. While modern EVs theoretically possess sufficient range for these distances, the crucial factor is charging. In the regions I frequently travel to, finding readily available and reliable Level 3 or DC Fast chargers within a reasonable distance (under 50 miles) is often a challenge. While the expansion of the Tesla Supercharger network to non-Tesla vehicles is a positive development, it doesn’t entirely resolve the broader charging infrastructure gaps.
This charging uncertainty is compounded by the difficulty of consistently starting long journeys with a 100% battery charge, particularly in a time-efficient and cost-effective manner. The prospect of adding charging anxiety to travel plans is unappealing. And this is from someone comfortable with technology and planning – for the average driver, these challenges would likely be even more daunting.
Choosing a PHEV was insightful, revealing the current limitations of full EV ownership for my needs.
Looking ahead, I would definitely consider purchasing another PHEV. In fact, a PHEV might be my exclusive choice for my next vehicle. I appreciate the electric-only driving capability, the added power, and the absence of range anxiety and charging dependence. The best PHEVs currently available offer over 40 miles of electric range, and this is expected to improve further by the time I’m ready for a new car. I have greater confidence in the continued advancement of PHEV technology compared to the rapid expansion and improvement of EV charging infrastructure in the U.S. within the next few years. While this perspective might be disappointing for staunch EV advocates, it reflects the current realities and a pragmatic approach to vehicle ownership.
