MAZDA CX-80

Is it practical to run a PHEV using public chargers?

- KRIS CULMER

An electric car is now the default for company car drivers, but the next best option in terms of tax liability is a plugin hybrid – and it's a major part of the reason for the ongoing PHEV renaissance.

The logic behind the bandings is, of course, rewarding lower CO2 emissions – but unlike with an EV, the carbon footprint of a PHEV is entirely dependent on how you use it. And if you 'can't make an EV work for you', it will be because you regularly do long journeys without time to stop and charge or you can't access charging at home or at work. I am one such person. So in an effort to lower my fuel bills and keep my conscience clean, I've tried plugging my CX-80 PHEV into a street-side public charger.