In recent years, the automotive industry has been heavily promoting plug-in hybrid vehicles (PHEVs) as a bridge to the future of clean transport. They are presented as an ecological compromise that combines the advantages of electric mobility with the convenience of gasoline engines. Unfortunately, according to a new analysis by T&E (the Association for the Research on Clean Transport and Energy in Europe), this “green” reputation may be just an illusion.
The T&E report reveals a disturbing reality: carbon dioxide emissions from plug-in hybrids are almost five times higher than officially declared. While manufacturers announce average emissions of around 28 grams per kilometer, the study found that in real-world conditions, the vehicles emit an average of 139 grams per kilometer. This figure puts them on par with conventional mid-range petrol cars, completely undermining their “green” image.
The large-scale study behind these conclusions is based on data from more than 127,000 plug-in hybrids registered in 2023. Using sensors that measure real-world fuel consumption under normal driving conditions, the European Environment Agency has collected information that reveals a serious discrepancy between laboratory tests and the practical use of these cars.
The problem lies in the way plug-in hybrids are used. Ideally, if the battery is charged regularly and the electric motor is used mainly, emissions would be low. Unfortunately, in the real world, many owners do not charge their cars as often or drive longer distances, relying on the petrol engine. This is leading to a sharp increase in emissions and undermining the environmental impact they are supposed to achieve.
In response to these revelations, the European Union is already taking action. By introducing “utility factors“, the EU is trying to adjust official figures and bring them closer to reality. These factors, which will be gradually applied in 2025 and 2027, will force car manufacturers to rethink their strategies. They will be faced with the dilemma of either reducing sales of plug-in hybrids or accelerating the transition to fully electric vehicles in order to meet the set CO2 reduction targets.
According to Lucien Mathieu, Director “Automotive Industry“ at T&E, “plug-in hybrids are still worse for the climate than car manufacturers claim.“ He is adamant that the gap between theory and practice has only widened. This is a clear signal to the European Commission to remain firm in its decisions and stick to the already agreed coefficients to ensure that the industry takes responsibility for its environmental impact.
Ultimately, the T&E study raises a serious question for the automotive industry and consumers. How "green" are the cars we buy? As governments and consumers seek solutions to tackle climate change, it is important to base decisions on accurate and honest data, not on marketing that creates pure illusions.