Most top-selling UK plug-in hybrids lack rapid-charging capability

ChargeUK’s latest study reveals that only 26% of the 20 best-selling plug-in hybrid electric vehicles in the United Kingdom can connect to rapid chargers delivering 50 kW or higher, while the rest are limited to much slower charging rates. This restriction means drivers of most models may face charging times of several hours, prompting greater reliance on the internal-combustion engine. The top-selling hybrids include the Jaecoo 7, Ford Kuga and Hyundai Tucson, none of which can use ultra-rapid chargers above 150 kW.

Despite repeated findings that PHEVs emit more CO₂ than official estimates suggest, the government continued to count them toward EV sales targets, with 227,000 registrations last year and 180,000 so far this year. Industry lobbying, including a threat from Nissan to withhold a £170 million Sunderland plant investment, may influence upcoming consultations on the zero-emission vehicle mandate. By contrast, every leading pure-electric model can use rapid chargers, and many can also access ultra-rapid stations.