Plug-in hybrids to display new fuel economy label

The government unveiled Tuesday a new label for plug-in hybrid electric cars, which displays fuel economy for both modes of operation ― electricity and gasoline.

“The move is aimed to clear up customers’ confusion about the fuel economy of incoming new types of vehicles,” said Kim Sang-mo from the Industry Ministry.

A plug-in hybrid electric vehicle can switch to a gasoline-powered operation from the electric mode when it comes to long-distance driving.

PHEV’s dual-mode offers better fuel economy than that of traditional hybrid EV cars, but previously there had been no way for PHEVs to inform their owners about improvements in fuel economy, classified as hybrid under the Korean law.

Imported cars, some of which had already debuted their PHEV model in the local market, welcomed the new labelling system.

“We are pleased to put the new label on the newly-launched i8,” a BMW official said.

BMW announced the fuel economy of its first PHEV, launched on March 26, is 13.9 km per liter, which is measured based on the evaluation standards for a hybrid car.

“The figure is much lower than a maximum of 47.6 kilometers per liter, which was recorded in Germany,” the BMW official said.

Hyundai Motor and Porsche are also expected to take advantage of the new labelling system when they market their PHEV. Porsche launched its plug-in hybrid sport utility vehicle Cayenne last month, while Hyundai will debut its first Sonata PHEV in the first half of this year.

The government will soon discuss whether to offer the subsidy for PHEVs as well.

“Related ministries started talks to make a guideline for financial support to PHEVs, which is forecast to be applied from next year,” said Park Yeon-jae from the Ministry of Environment.

By Seo Jee-yeon  (jyseo@heraldcorp.com)