Understanding the Different Types of Electrified Vehicles: MHEV, HEV, PHEV, and EV

As the UK pushes toward a greener and more sustainable automotive future, more drivers are making the switch to electrified vehicles. But with so many acronyms—MHEV, HEV, PHEV, EV—it can be confusing to understand what each one means and which is right for you.

This guide breaks down the key types of electrified vehicles, how they work, their pros and cons, and which driving styles they suit best.

🔌 What Are Electrified Vehicles?

Electrified vehicles are any cars that use some form of electric power in combination with (or instead of) a traditional petrol or diesel engine. They’re designed to reduce emissions, improve fuel efficiency, and in many cases, save you money on running costs and tax.

There are several types—each offering a different level of electric support. Let’s look at them in detail.

⚡ MHEV – Mild Hybrid Electric Vehicle

🔋 How It Works:

MHEVs use a small battery and an electric motor to assist the engine during acceleration and when coasting. However, they cannot run on electric power alone.

✅ Pros:

• Slightly better fuel economy than standard petrol/diesel

• No need to plug in

• Often more affordable than full hybrids

⚠️ Cons:

• Doesn’t offer electric-only driving

• Emissions and fuel use still relatively high compared to other electrified types

👤 Best For:

Drivers who want to improve efficiency without changing their driving habits or worrying about charging.

🔋 HEV – Hybrid Electric Vehicle (Full Hybrid)

🔋 How It Works:

HEVs combine a combustion engine with an electric motor and battery. The car can drive short distances on electric power, but it charges itself through regenerative braking and the engine.

✅ Pros:

• Better fuel economy, especially in town

• Seamless transition between petrol and electric

• No charging required

⚠️ Cons:

• Limited electric-only range (usually 1–2 miles)

• Less efficient on long motorway drives

👤 Best For:

Urban drivers or those who want a fuel-efficient vehicle with no charging hassle.

🔌 PHEV – Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle

🔋 How It Works:

PHEVs feature a much larger battery than HEVs and can be plugged in to charge. They can typically travel 15–40 miles on electric power alone, before switching to hybrid mode using petrol/diesel.

✅ Pros:

• Ideal for short daily commutes using only electric

• Lower emissions and running costs

• Access to low-emission zones

• Excellent company car tax rates (BIK)

⚠️ Cons:

• Needs regular charging to be cost-effective

• Heavier due to the larger battery

👤 Best For:

Commuters with access to home or workplace charging and company car users looking to reduce tax bills.

⚡ EV – Electric Vehicle (Battery Electric Vehicle / BEV)

🔋 How It Works:

EVs run entirely on electricity, with no petrol or diesel engine. They use large battery packs and are charged via home chargers or public charging networks.

✅ Pros:

• Zero tailpipe emissions

• Cheapest to run (low electricity cost per mile)

• Smooth, quiet drive

• Exempt from road tax and congestion charges (in many areas)

⚠️ Cons:

• Range depends on battery size (typically 150–300 miles)

• Charging infrastructure still improving

• Long charging times (though fast chargers help)

👤 Best For:

Drivers with reliable access to charging who want to make a full switch to electric and benefit from the lowest running costs.

💧 FCEV – Fuel Cell Electric Vehicle (Bonus: Hydrogen Cars)

🔋 How It Works:

These vehicles generate electricity through a chemical reaction between hydrogen and oxygen. They emit only water vapour.

✅ Pros:

• Fast refuelling

• Long range

⚠️ Cons:

• Very limited hydrogen refuelling infrastructure

• Expensive to buy and lease

👤 Best For:

Early adopters or fleet users in areas with hydrogen stations.

🔍 Which Electrified Vehicle Is Right for You?

Here’s a quick comparison:

🚗 Final Thoughts: Leasing is a Smart Way to Try Electric

Whether you’re curious about hybrids or ready to go fully electric, leasing is a low-risk way to try before you buy. With shorter terms, lower monthly payments, and no long-term commitment, it’s perfect for exploring what works best for your lifestyle.

At Broker4Cars, we offer personal and business lease deals on MHEVs, HEVs, PHEVs, and EVs from top UK brands — all with flexible terms and free UK delivery.

👉 Ready to find your perfect electrified car lease?

Browse Our Latest Hybrid & Electric Leasing Deals

Author Gary Bain  Founder of broker4cars.co.uk