Just when you thought you were finally starting to understand the options available: gas, hybrid, and battery, it’s time to remind you that the world of electric vehicles is ever changing.

The plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) is a modified version of the hybrid electric vehicle (HEV). The concept is generally understood to refer to vehicles that can be recharged off of a standard household plug. A standard HEV carries a small amount of electrical charge, enough of a charge to travel short distances, but not enough for sustained, longer-distance travel on electrical power alone. In the process of being converted into a PHEV, more battery capacity is added, increasing the potential charge that can be held as well as the overall potential range of the vehicle. Due to the more extensive use of batteries in PHEVs than in HEVs, it is thought that the lifespan of the batteries will be less.

Currently, while most major automakers have announced plans to release PHEVs, they are only available in the form of existing hybrids which have been converted. There are a number of small companies that can perform this conversion. However, if you have the mechanical skill to do it on your own, you have the option of purchasing a conversion kit.

At the present time, electricity is still cheaper and less polluting than gasoline (based on how electricity is generated across the country), so a vehicle that can go “gas optional” as needed can certainly be a benefit to both the environment and your wallet!