This is a huge myth that people still don’t understand. Most modern hybrids don’t need to be plugged in. Some cars, called Plug-in hybrids, can be plugged in, but don’t need to be charged in order to run.
In the Toyota Prius plug-in hybrid and Honda Accord plug-in hybrid, the system has a bigger, better battery, which allows for a longer distance of all-electric driving. In this mode, the car acts like a modern electric vehicle, like the Nissan Leaf. When the battery drops to a low enough level, the gas engine turns on, and assists the electric. In this situation the car acts like a normal hybrid vehicle. Through regenerative braking the car can recharge its battery.
These cars are an option for drivers who want an electric vehicle, but don’t want to be limited by a battery’s range.
Almost all modern hybrids, from the Prius to the Fusion Hybrid, use both gas and electric motors, and don’t ever need to be plugged in.
