1. Mild Hybrid (MHEV)
Best for: People who want slightly better MPG without changing their habits.
These cars cannot drive on electricity alone. A small battery helps the petrol engine accelerate and powers the stop-start system. You never plug them in; you just fill up with petrol as normal.
2. Full Hybrid (HEV)
Best for: City drivers with no driveway.
Examples: Toyota Prius, Honda Civic e:HEV.
These have a larger battery and can drive short distances (usually under 1 mile) on electric power alone, mostly in stop-start traffic. The engine charges the battery while you drive. No plug required.
3. Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV)
Best for: Commuters with a driveway.
Examples: Mitsubishi Outlander, BMW 330e.
These have a much larger battery that you must plug in to get the benefits. They can usually do 20–40 miles on pure electric, switching to petrol for longer journeys. Ideally, you charge overnight and drive to work on cheap electricity.
4. Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV)
Best for: Lowest running costs and future-proofing.
Examples: Tesla Model 3, Nissan Leaf, MG4.
No engine. No exhaust. No petrol. You rely 100% on the battery. Range anxiety is less of an issue now, with most modern BEVs managing 200–300 miles on a charge.