EPA Plug-in Hybrid Label Explained (MPGe, Gas MPG, Range)
- Use MPGe and kWh metrics for electric-mode efficiency.
- Use MPG metrics for gasoline-mode efficiency.
- Translate everything into cost per mile using your $/kWh and $/gal.
What We Know (Sourced)
EPA provides official plug-in hybrid label documentation, including an interactive plug-in hybrid vehicle label and a text version that explains each part of the sticker.
EPA also provides general documentation on how fuel economy labels work and why they exist as standardized comparison tools.
EPA's testing overview explains that plug-in vehicle efficiency metrics like MPGe are based on standardized procedures intended for comparisons, and real-world results vary with conditions like speed, temperature, and accessory use.
Why PHEV Labels Look Different
A gasoline-only label focuses on MPG and annual fuel cost. An EV label focuses on MPGe, kWh usage, and range. A plug-in hybrid label needs to communicate both fuel types — because a PHEV can consume gasoline and electricity depending on how (and how often) you charge.
How to Read the Key PHEV Metrics
Use the label as a structured checklist:
- Electric-mode efficiency: MPGe and/or kWh metrics.
- Gasoline-mode efficiency: MPG metrics.
- Range information: how far the vehicle can travel on electricity before switching to gasoline (and total range, if displayed).
If you want the underlying definitions first, start with these:
How to Compare a PHEV to a Gas Car or EV
For comparisons, the cleanest common denominator is cost per mile:
- Estimate electric-mode cost per mile using kWh per mile and your effective $/kWh.
- Estimate gasoline-mode cost per mile using MPG and your $/gal.
- Estimate how often you will be in electric mode vs gasoline mode based on your charging pattern and typical daily miles.
Related guides:
Want an annual cost comparison?
Compare annual energy costs with your miles, $/gal, and $/kWh.
Try the Gas vs Electric CalculatorWhat's Next
- Decide your charging reality: home charging, workplace charging, or mostly public.
- Use your daily mileage: a PHEV behaves differently for a 10-mile commute vs a 60-mile commute.
- Plan for winter: cold weather can reduce EV range and increase energy use. Related: EV range in cold weather.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I treat a PHEV like an EV or like a gas car?
It depends on how often you charge. If you charge consistently, electric-mode efficiency matters more. If you rarely charge, the gasoline-side MPG will dominate your real-world cost and fuel use.
Does the PHEV label include charging losses?
EPA notes in its plug-in vehicle testing overview that MPGe values include charging losses to represent energy from the outlet. See: charging losses and MPGe.
Can I compare a PHEV and EV using MPGe alone?
MPGe helps with cross-fuel comparisons, but cost-per-mile is often clearer for budgeting because it uses your electricity rate and fuel price directly.