Plug-in hybrid electric vehicles pollute significantly more than companies claim, according to new research, with BMW, Peugeot and Renault models emitting up to three times more than advertised.
Research by Graz University of Technology found the BMW 3 Series emitted three times the levels of CO2 than the manufacturer claimed, while the Renault Megane and Peugeot 308 polluted 70% and 20% more respectively.
Each car was tested over a 55km journey and started on a full battery, campaign group Transport & Environment (T&E), which commissioned the report, said.
In an urban setting, Peugeot and BMW’s cars did not travel the distance advertised for one charge.
“Plug-in hybrids are sold as the perfect combination of a battery for all your local needs and an engine for long distances. But real-world testing shows this is a myth,” said Anna Krajinska, T&E emission manager.
The group called on governments to end subsidies for plug-in hybrids, also suggesting more stringent taxes based on actual emissions should be placed on their use.
“Plug-in hybrid electric vehicles should not be treated as zero emission,” Krajinska added.
BMW responded: “On-the-road driving presents infinite variability of multiple criteria and so it is not surprising that there are some differences to the WLTP (global test standard) figures,” adding plug-in hybrids played an “important role” in its transition to EVs.
Public grants for plug-in cars were ended in the UK in June last year, after the government suggested it had “successfully kickstarted” an EV revolution by supporting the sale of half a million cars.
It subsequently turned attention to charging infrastructure and subsidies for vans, taxis and motorcycles, although concerns have been raised that the UK is far behind efforts to meet a targeted 300,000 charge points by 2030.