German ADAC Automotive Association: Most Plug-in Hybrid Vehicles Still Retain Over 80% Battery Capacity After 190,000 km

According to the latest research data from the German ADAC Automotive Association, most plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) retain over 80% of their original battery capacity after 193,000 km, a performance comparable to the expected lifespan of conventional gasoline vehicles, demonstrating the reliability of hybrid batteries in long-term use. Combining the latest policies from the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology and the configurations of mainstream models in the market, this article will provide a comprehensive analysis of the technical characteristics and purchasing recommendations for PHEVs.

1. ADAC Real-World Testing: PHEV Battery Durability Exceeds Expectations

Research from the German ADAC Automotive Association shows that PHEV batteries perform excellently in long-term use:

Stable Degradation Curve

Most PHEV batteries retain over 80% of their original capacity after 193,000 km, consistent with the overall lifespan of the vehicle.

Significant Brand Differences

Mercedes: Exceptionally stable battery degradation, warranty policy is 8 years/160,000 km (5th generation battery)

Mitsubishi: Initial degradation is faster, but... Stable performance over time, 6-year/100,000 km warranty

BMW: The more pure electric driving, the faster the degradation; 6-year/100,000 km warranty (3rd-4th generation)

Volvo/Volkswagen: Slow degradation rate, minimal impact from pure electric driving; 8-year/160,000 km warranty

Real-world test data:

50,000 km: ≥92%

100,000 km: ≥88%

150,000 km: ≥84%

200,000 km: ≥80%

2. New policy from China's Ministry of Industry and Information Technology: Increased technical threshold for plug-in hybrids

The latest policy released by the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology regarding 2... The "Announcement on Technical Requirements for New Energy Vehicles Subject to Vehicle Purchase Tax Reduction and Exemption (2026-2027)" sets higher requirements for plug-in hybrid electric vehicles:

Raised Range Standards

Pure electric range must meet the "conditional equivalent all-electric range" of no less than 100 kilometers.

This is a significant increase compared to the previously common requirement of 50-60 kilometers.

Stricter Energy Consumption Requirements

Fuel consumption in battery hold mode must be less than 70% (curb weight less than 2510 kg) or 75% (not less than 25 kg) of the limit for traditional gasoline vehicles. 10kg)

The energy consumption limit under the power consumption mode is relaxed to 140% (less than 2510kg) or 145% (not less than 2510kg)

Market Impact

Some existing plug-in hybrid models, such as the BYD Qin series, Geely Galaxy L7/L6, and Chery Fengyun A8, may face a decline in competitiveness in their lower-end versions.

Automakers need to equip plug-in hybrid models with battery packs that have higher energy density and larger capacity.

3. Recommendations and Configuration Analysis of Mainstream Plug-in Hybrid Models

Economy Cars (RMB 100,000-200,000)

Model	Suggested Retail Price	Pure electric range (CLTC)	Overall range	Core configuration
ROEWE M7 DMH	Starting from RMB 85,800	160km	2050km	Doubao AI large model, L2 assisted driving, lifetime warranty on the three main electric components.
BYD Qin L DM-i	99,800-139,800 RMB	120km	2100km	Fifth-generation DM technology, DiPilot 100 advanced intelligent driving system
Honda Accord e:PHEV	RMB 225,800 - 258,800	-	2000km+	Fourth-generation i-MMD technology, HUD head-up display

Popular SUV Models

Model	Suggested Retail Price	pure electric range	Highlights
BYD Song PLUS DM-i	RMB 152,800 - 205,800	51-110km	DM-i Super Hybrid Technology, supports fast charging
Haval H6 New Energy	-	55km	Level 2 assisted driving, intelligent voice interaction system
LYNK&CO 08 EM-P	RMB 235,800 - 299,800	245km	EM-P Super Range Extender Electric Vehicle, Harman Kardon Audio System

4. Recommendations for Plug-in Hybrid Battery Use and Maintenance

Factors Affecting Battery Degradation:

Low-charge discharge (SOC consistently below 20% will accelerate degradation)

High-temperature environment (Park in the shade during summer)

Abuse of forced EV mode (Forced use when battery level is below 15%)

Tips for Extending Battery Life

Switch to HEV mode while driving at high speeds, setting SOC to 70%

In winter, prioritize using hybrid mode to warm up the battery before switching to pure electric mode

Keep 20% charge as a safety buffer during daily use

Warranty Policy Comparison

BYD: Lifetime battery warranty for first owner (annual mileage ≤ 30,000 km)

NIO: Battery swapping eliminates degradation anxiety

General Solution: Annual mileage ≤ 4 Choose an 8-year or 160,000-kilometer warranty.

5. Purchase Recommendations and Future Trends

Target Audience:

Frequent urban commuters with convenient charging options.

Consumers with long-distance travel needs but who want to reduce fuel consumption.

Car buyers who value policy incentives (such as purchase tax reductions).

Technological Development Direction:

Battery energy density continues to improve.

Pure electric range is concentrating on the 150-200 km range.

Intelligent management systems optimize battery life.

Market Forecast:

Short-range plug-in hybrid models (less than 100 km) will gradually exit the market after 2026.

The proportion of plug-in hybrid models in passenger vehicles is expected to further increase.

With advancements in battery technology and clear policy guidance, plug-in hybrid models are becoming a practical choice for more and more consumers. ADAC's test data provides strong evidence of the long-term reliability of plug-in hybrid batteries, while new regulations from China's Ministry of Industry and Information Technology will drive the industry towards higher technical standards. Consumers should consider their own usage scenarios and charging conditions when purchasing a plug-in hybrid model.