Does a plug-in hybrid combine an ICE and an EV? Can it run on the ICE for long journeys and as an EV for local driving? Which cars are available in this segment?
Yes, a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) is exactly that - a combination of an internal combustion engine (ICE) and an electric motor with a battery that can be charged from an external source. The idea is that you can use the electric-only mode for short local trips, and then the car seamlessly switches to the petrol engine for longer journeys, so you never have to worry about range.
In India, however, the options are quite limited. You have the Mercedes S 450e at the top end as the only plug-in hybrid available at the moment. However, JSW MG is launching the MG Hector Tomahawk later this week, a plug-in hybrid, and next year you will get a Jetour T2-based SUV from JSW, also a plug-in hybrid. Other than these, there are no PHEV options for now.

MG Hector Tomahawk
Explore cars mentioned
@autocar.india Thanks 👍
More posts on similar cars
Has E20 fuel affected your mileage?
Curated collections
Is ADAS worth paying extra for in a car?
Popular discussions right now
Upcoming launch buzz
Community discussions on upcoming launches

BMW
iX facelift

Audi
A6 e-tron

Audi
Q6 e-tron

Audi
e-tron GT facelift

Vinfast
VF5

Denza
D9

Denza
Z9 GT

Toyota
Innova HyCross facelift

Mini
Cooper Electric

Volkswagen
Virtus facelift
Posted on: 15 Aug 2026
Need expert advice?
Ask the Autocar community and experts.







