Automakers are constantly evolving their technology to meet customer expectations. One example is plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEV). It is considered by automakers and car enthusiasts to be superior to its hybrid counterpart and a cut below an EV. With a larger electric battery and a different charging system, PHEVs have greater electric range than hybrids.
New and advanced technology has allowed some PHEVs to perform better than others, with a single model offering an electric range of over 60 miles. So what are the details surrounding this PHEV, and what could be an alternative that comes close to 60 miles?
So how do plug-in hybrid vehicles (PHEVs) work?
A plug-in hybrid is an electric vehicle that uses a combination of an electric motor and a gasoline-powered internal combustion engine (ICE). It can run on electricity and automatically switch to gasoline when the battery runs out. Simply put, PHEVs can use battery power, gasoline, or a combination of the two to operate, thus ranking among the most fuel efficient.
It also charges differently than a typical hybrid does. Standard hybrids automatically regenerate battery power, while PHEVs have the ability to plug in to charge their batteries faster, like an EV.
The 60 Mile PHEV: Karma GS-6/ Revero GT
According to Car and Driver, Karma GS-6 has a PHEV with an electric range of up to 61 miles running on battery power alone. It is a safe and capable model with many standard features, not to mention its stylish appearance. A host of safety features are standard on this vehicle, including stability control, a pre-collision system, 4-wheel ABS, and tire pressure monitoring. Its base 1.5-liter three-cylinder generates 536 hp and 650 lb-ft of torque, giving you a classic touring experience.
The Karma GS-6 features height-adjustable, leather, ventilated passenger and driver seats for improved driver and passenger comfort. The Revero GT, which also has a plug-in hybrid powertrain, offers more performance than the GS-6. The all-wheel-drive Revero GT has over 1100 hp and similar safety features to the Karma GS-6. Convenience is also on the automaker’s mind with keyless start, electric power steering, cruise control and a rear view camera.