Every Plug-in Hybrid EV (PHEV) Available in Australia (2024)

As of January 2024 there are 47 different PHEV models available in Australia.

Did you know BEVs outsold PHEVs by 8 to 1 in 2023?

PHEV Database

A plug-in hybrid electric (PHEV) car uses energy from a battery to power electric motor(s) and petrol to power an internal combustion engine (ICE).

The electric motor can drive the car independently in most situations for emissions-free driving, though it often works with the engine to save fuel, improve performance, and enable longer range.

PHEV batteries can be charged from a standard power socket, EV charger (often AC only) or regenerative braking. Once the battery is depleted the car will automatically switch to the ICE engine.

Day-to-day short commutes

The average electric-only range of today's PHEVs is 57 km. This is enough to comfortably cover the average daily distance driven in Australia – 37 km. In fact, all but one PHEV model on the list are able to cover this distance.

The battery and electric motors in a PHEV provide the benefits of electric cars (cheap energy, quiet driving and strong performance) for most regular daily commutes.

The ICE engine provides additional range and alleviates range anxiety. It also gives owners the option of taking longer trips without the inconvenience of extended charging times.

Less efficient than its ICE and BEV equivalents

Because a PHEV contains both engine and electric, it is more heavier and inefficient than its equivalents when operating in pure electric or engine-only mode respectively.

As per the example below, the efficiency of the Kia Niro PHEV is lower than the BEV version; however, it is still able to deliver the aforementioned benefits.

Convenient access to charging

Buyers of PHEV are typically looking to cover their day-to-day commute using the electric range. The smaller battery of a PHEV means you are likely to deplete the capacity regularly.

To ensure regular use of the all-electric range, you will ideally need convenient access to a charging outlet (home or workplace) as you'll need to be recharging regularly.

Federal Government PHEV Incentives

PHEVs fall under the definition of zero or low emission vehicles and are therefore eligible for the FBT exemption.

State Government PHEV Incentives

The Northern Territory government is the only state/territory government to provide financial incentives for PHEV purchases. You can read more about them in our ultimate EV incentives guide.