On November 10, 2025, a collaborative study conducted by the German automobile association ADAC and the Austrian battery data firm AVILOO disclosed that, after covering a distance of 193,000 kilometers, the battery capacities of the majority of plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) still remain above 80%. Notably, among these vehicles, premium brands like Mercedes-Benz, BMW, and Volvo exhibited superior battery performance compared to brands such as Volkswagen, Ford, and Mitsubishi. Specifically, Mercedes-Benz models demonstrated remarkably stable battery performance, maintaining their capacity even after traveling 200,000 kilometers. In contrast, Mitsubishi PHEVs experienced more pronounced battery degradation at relatively lower mileages. The study emphasized that, under normal driving conditions, batteries in high-end models generally exhibit longer lifespans. However, this observation should not be misconstrued as an indication that low-priced models are inherently unreliable. To optimize battery health and reduce the frequency of charging, ADAC suggests that drivers who predominantly undertake short trips using only electric power should consider opting for pure electric vehicles.
