More and more municipalities are joining new initiatives to reach the air quality standards recommended by the health authorities. There are plans to create more low-emission zones, increasingly rationalise the use of combustion vehicles, and promote sustainable and energy-efficient mobility.
Electromobility grants are another initiative that aims to encourage the purchase of electric vehicles in order to promote eco-mobility and focus the automobile market on working towards a more environmentally friendly model.
New models of electric cars (100% electric, hybrids and plug-in hybrids) come onto the market every year, and plug-in hybrids are gradually gaining market share due to their price and the fact that they have greater range than conventional hybrids.
What do we mean by plug-in hybrid cars?
Plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) have both a combustion engine and a 100% electric motor that can work either together, or separately. Thus, some hybrid models, depending on their battery capacity and power, can cover up to 110 km in all-electric mode. Moreover, they have greater range than 100% electric cars thanks to their dual propulsion system (electric motor and combustion engine).
PHEV batteries have more capacity than those of conventional hybrids, so in addition to being charged by regenerative braking, the charge needs to be completed by connection to a mains power supply.
What are the benefits of a plug-in hybrid vehicle?
Below, we explain the main advantages of driving a plug-in hybrid vehicle:
1. Low emissions of toxic gases and lower consumption, as plug-in hybrids prioritise the electric motor over the combustion engine when driving. They are ideal for urban journeys, because as they have a greater range in all-electric mode, the combustion engine is not needed.
2. Tax and traffic advantages, as they have the DGT (Directorate-General for Traffic - equivalent to the DVLA in the UK) O badge, and purchase grants of up to €5,500 and free registration may be applicable as they are low emission vehicles. They are also permitted to drive in VAO lanes (lanes for high occupancy vehicles) without a minimum number of occupants.
3. Ease of charging at charging points on the plug-in network, with quick-charge connectors on streets and normal charging at BSM network car parks, which have different electric charging bay subscription options.
4. A more relaxed, quieter drive, reducing the stress that can be caused by noise pollution.
Opting to drive this type of vehicle means contributing to a more sustainable form of mobility, a reduction in environmental impact, and a general improvement in people's daily lives.