23:59 12-11-2025

ADAC finds big gaps in PHEV battery health across brands

The German auto club ADAC examined battery health in 28,000 plug-in hybrids and found a striking spread between brands. At the front of the pack, Mercedes-Benz models retain around 90% of their capacity even after 200,000 km. BMWs also hold up well, though frequent use of electric mode tends to accelerate wear.

Volvo and Volkswagen sit in the middle, showing moderate aging and keeping more than 85% capacity at similar mileage. At the other end, Mitsubishi and Ford plug-in hybrids suffer the steepest decline: degradation can reach 30% by 200,000 km, and the slide in capacity starts even at relatively low mileages. For buyers, that gap underscores that a PHEV isn’t a uniform proposition—the badge can significantly shape the long-term experience.

ADAC experts advise checking battery condition before purchasing a used car, especially a hybrid. And for those planning to spend most of their time in electric mode, they suggest considering city EVs as the more rational choice. In practice, that guidance dovetails with how many of these cars are used: when daily driving is largely urban, going fully electric can feel like the path of least resistance.