Can you run a Hyundai IONIC plug-in without plugging in?

[FreeLitres]

I'm still having trouble choosing a company car now that the Prius CO2 figure has increased above 75g carbon. (Above 75g, I believe I have to pay tax in the cash alternative ~ almost double the tax?!)

I am now considering the Hyundai IONIQ plug-in hybrid.

I feel this car is better suited to short commutes where there are charging points at home and/or work.

I have a long weekly commute of about 160 miles plus I have to travel to customers anywhere in the UK approx once a week.

Would a plug-in hybrid work properly if it is hardly ever plugged in? Without bing charged, what kind of mpg am I likely to achieve at 70mph on the motorway?

Do you get any benefits of the Hybrid system if it rarely gets plugged in?

I'm being pushed for my choice on my next car and I think Hybrids might be the answer, but I really dont understand them!

[kambites]

Yes it'll work OK, and you'll still get the benefits of regenerative braking and the atkinson cycle engine.

Reviews seem to be implying around 60mpg on long motorway runs without pre-charging. Obviously for short trips if you're charging it regularly you'll use no fuel at all.

ETA: There is a plug-in Prius too, which is well under 75g/km.

Edited by kambites on Saturday 17th February 11:51

[FreeLitres]

Without charging, would this car work exactly like a normal Hybrid?

[kambites]

Basically, although plugins tend to have bigger batteries than conventional hybrids which gives more scope for optimisation.