MHEV v Plug-in Hybrid

[The Surveyor]

I'm after some basic guidance on the status of MHEV's. Are these classed at an electric hybrid in the same way that plug-in hybrids and EV's are for city centre access etc, or are they viewed as just a slightly more efficient ICE car?

Thanks

[sjg]

Better to think of it as enhanced stop-start - it can shut down the engine on coasting or braking before you come to a stop. When you accelerate again it can give a mild boost but no ability to even creep along in traffic without starting the engine (like a Prius can).

It gives a few g reduction on CO2 rating and it's cheap and simple for manufacturers to package, hence they're all at it. No exemptions for things like the London Congestion Charge, although from later this year that will only be for full battery EVs or hydrogen fuel cell cars anyway.

A proper hybrid (like the Toyotas) is better, a PHEV is even better still if you can charge daily at home.

[The Surveyor]

Thanks for that, just what I wanting to confirm.

Cheers