What is a PHEV?
Your local guide to smart, flexible driving in the hills and beyond
Your local guide to smart, flexible driving in the hills and beyond
At Kalamunda Toyota, we know that choosing your next vehicle isn’t just about the specs—it’s about finding what works for your life. And if you're looking for better fuel efficiency without going fully electric, a Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV) might be the perfect fit.
Here’s a simple breakdown of what PHEVs are, how they work, and why they could be ideal for hills driving, long commutes, and everything in between.
What is a PHEV?
A PHEV is a vehicle that combines a petrol engine with a battery-powered electric motor. Unlike a traditional hybrid, a PHEV can be plugged in to charge, giving you a longer electric-only range before the petrol engine kicks in.
Get the best of both worlds
Short tripe battery power alone
Long drives with the back-up of petrol power
How does it work?
Plug in at home or at a charging station to charge the battery
Drive on electric power for shorter trips (think school runs or local errands)
For longer journeys, the petrol engine takes over—or works with the electric motor for better performance and efficiency
You don’t have to worry about “range anxiety.” If the battery runs low, the petrol engine keeps you going without interruption.
Why choose a PHEV in the Perth Hills?
Living in Kalamunda and surrounding areas means you often need a car that can handle both short local trips and longer drives into the city—or out to the coast. A PHEV gives you:
Electric range for your daily routine
Electric range for your daily routine
Smooth, quiet driving with low emissions
And with more charging infrastructure popping up around Perth, it's becoming easier than ever to drive electric—without going all-in.
What Toyota PHEVs are available?
Toyota is bringing its first-ever plug-in hybrid to Australia soon, starting with the RAV4 PHEV GR Sport—offering:
(*WLTP figure. Range may vary depending on driving conditions.)
Is a PHEV right for you?
Here at Kalamunda Toyota, we’re happy to help you weigh up your options. Whether you’re considering a hybrid, plug-in hybrid, or full electric vehicle down the track, we’ll explain it in everyday terms—no jargon, no pressure.
Your local hybrid experts. Proudly hills born and bred.
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