Sensitivity of plug-in hybrid electric vehicle economics to drive patterns, electric range, energy management, and charge strategies

Plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) offer the potential to reduce oil imports, greenhouse gases, and fuel costs, but high upfront costs discourage many potential purchasers. Making an economic comparison with conventional alternatives is complicated in part by sensitivity to drive patterns, vehicle range, available energy management, and charge strategies that affect battery wear and gasoline consumption. Identifying justifiable battery...