What happened
Plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) emit significantly more CO₂ than advertised, with gasoline engines often engaging even in "electric mode." Flawed regulations and industry lobbying mask these issues. While some users benefit, PHEVs are an inefficient compromise, delaying a true transition to full EVs....
Plug-in hybrids (PHEVs) continue to fall short of their low-emission promise, emitting significantly more CO₂ in real-world driving than official ratings suggest, according to a new report by Transport & Environment (T&E). The study analyzed data from over 800,000 vehicles across Europe and found that PHEVs sold in 2023 released almost five times more carbon dioxide than advertised.
While manufacturers claim a 75% reduction in CO₂ compared to petrol cars, real-world results show only a 19% cut. T&E highlighted that many PHEVs engage their combustion engine during so-called electric trips. On average, the engine kicks in for nearly one-third of electric-mode driving, mainly because the electric motors aren’t powerful enough to drive the car alone.
Emissions vary based on the power ratio: PHEVs with strong electric motors (0.9 ratio) emit around 45 gCO₂/km, while weaker ones (0.5 ratio) emit over 100 gCO₂/km. Longer electric ranges also don’t guarantee better emissions. Models rated for over 75 km of electric driving showed higher emissions than mid-range ones.
Heavier weight and more powerful engines led to average CO₂ outputs of 202 g/km in charge-sustaining mode, about 25% higher than those with shorter ranges. T&E’s report also noted that fuel use during “electric” driving adds up. Based on typical usage, drivers spend an extra €250 (PKR 82,000) per year on fuel even when driving in electric mode.
The study concludes that most PHEVs remain a transitional solution with more promise than performance. Without stronger electric motors, lower vehicle weight, and better incentives for actual electric use, their environmental benefits will remain overstated.
Source coverage
This report summarizes findings from a study conducted by Transport & Environment (T&E), as published by ProPakistani on October 30, 2025. The study critically examines the real-world environmental performance of Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs), analyzing data from over 800,000 vehicles across Europe, with...
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Deeper analysis
Full source content
Plug-in hybrids (PHEVs) continue to fall short of their low-emission promise, emitting significantly more CO₂ in real-world driving than official ratings suggest, according to a new report by Transport & Environment (T&E). The study analyzed data from over 800,000 vehicles across Europe and found that PHEVs sold in 2023 released almost five times more carbon dioxide than advertised.
While manufacturers claim a 75% reduction in CO₂ compared to petrol cars, real-world results show only a 19% cut. T&E highlighted that many PHEVs engage their combustion engine during so-called electric trips. On average, the engine kicks in for nearly one-third of electric-mode driving, mainly because the electric motors aren’t powerful enough to drive the car alone.
Emissions vary based on the power ratio: PHEVs with strong electric motors (0.9 ratio) emit around 45 gCO₂/km, while weaker ones (0.5 ratio) emit over 100 gCO₂/km. Longer electric ranges also don’t guarantee better emissions. Models rated for over 75 km of electric driving showed higher emissions than mid-range ones.
Heavier weight and more powerful engines led to average CO₂ outputs of 202 g/km in charge-sustaining mode, about 25% higher than those with shorter ranges. T&E’s report also noted that fuel use during “electric” driving adds up. Based on typical usage, drivers spend an extra €250 (PKR 82,000) per year on fuel even when driving in electric mode.
The study concludes that most PHEVs remain a transitional solution with more promise than performance. Without stronger electric motors, lower vehicle weight, and better incentives for actual electric use, their environmental benefits will remain overstated.
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