New Report Reveals Plug-in Hybrids Emit Nearly as Much Pollution as Petrol Cars
A recent report highlights concerning emissions data regarding plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs). According to a study conducted by the advocacy group Transport and Environment, PHEVs are emitting nearly five times the pollution that official tests suggest. While car manufacturers market these vehicles as a more environmentally friendly option, the reality presents a stark contrast.
PHEV Emissions Reality
The research indicates that PHEVs emit only 19% less carbon dioxide (CO2) compared to conventional petrol and diesel vehicles. This finding emerges from an analysis of onboard fuel consumption data from 800,000 vehicles registered across Europe between 2021 and 2023.
- 2023 Emission Levels: Real-world emissions from PHEVs were found to be 4.9 times greater than laboratory test figures.
- Previous Years: Emissions in 2021 were 3.5 times higher than expected.
Flawed Utility Factor Estimates
A significant factor contributing to this discrepancy is the overestimation of the “utility factor.” This ratio measures the distance traveled on electric power versus overall travel distance. The study revealed that only 27% of driving was conducted in electric mode, while official estimates suggested 84%.
While the European Commission plans to adjust the utility factor to provide more accurate data, researchers assert this gap will not be fully closed. Even when operating in electric mode, PHEVs still produce emissions above official predictions. Electric motors, it seems, do not have sufficient strength to function independently, resulting in reliance on fossil fuels for nearly one-third of the distance traveled in electric mode.
Expert Insights and Industry Response
Patrick Plötz from the Fraunhofer Institute for Systems and Innovation Research emphasized that the report offers vital insights. He stated, “The gap between official and real-world PHEV fuel consumption and CO2 emissions is much larger than for gasoline or diesel cars.” This underscores the need for cautious policy adjustments concerning PHEVs.
PHEVs have garnered renewed attention in political discussions as the automotive industry pushes for relaxed CO2 targets. A planned ban on new combustion engine cars by 2035 faces opposition, particularly from Germany’s influential car industry. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has advocated for maintaining a balanced approach to these regulations.
Financial Implications for Drivers and Manufacturers
The report indicates that the underestimation of PHEV emissions has allowed four major automobile manufacturers to evade over €5 billion in fines between 2021 and 2023. This financial leniency arises from easier compliance with the EU’s fleet-average CO2 targets.
Moreover, drivers of PHEVs may be incurring around €500 more annually in operational costs than suggested by laboratory tests. This financial burden, coupled with rising emissions, presents significant challenges for both consumers and the environment.
