Powertrains explained
HEV, PHEV, and REEV: what is the difference?
Choosing between hybrid and electric? At Grimbergen Motors we help you compare the options. Below we explain HEV, PHEV and REEV, with the matching models from our catalogue. Prices are catalogue from-prices (incl. VAT).
HEV: the self-charging hybrid
A HEV (Hybrid Electric Vehicle) has both a petrol engine and an electric motor. You never need to plug in: the battery charges while driving and braking.
Who is it for?
- Ideal for city driving and traffic jams
- No charging station needed
- Drive and refuel like a conventional car
HEV models in our catalogue
- Forthing T5 HEV (from €33,490 incl. VAT) — 5-seater SUV, 1.5T + electric motor (±177–240 hp system output).
- Forthing U-Tour HEV (from €36,490 incl. VAT) — 7-seater MPV, 1.5L turbo + electric motor (self-charging full hybrid).
- BAIC BJ30 Hybrid (from €37,990 incl. VAT) — Rugged 4WD SUV with ATS, 1.5T (DHT) 4WD (engine power 116 kW / 235 Nm).
- Forthing V9 HEV (from €50,990 incl. VAT) — Luxury 7-seater MPV, 1.5L turbo 4-cylinder + DHT (263 hp combined).
PHEV: the plug-in hybrid
A PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle) has a larger battery you charge externally via a charger or wall socket. You can drive on electricity for daily trips, with a petrol engine as backup for longer journeys.
Who is it for?
- You have charging at home or work
- You drive short distances daily (commuting)
- You want electric driving without range anxiety
PHEV models in our catalogue
- Forthing U-Tour PHEV (from €38,490 incl. VAT) — 7-seater MPV, plug-in hybrid with up to ±100 km electric range (WLTP).
- Forthing V9 PHEV (from €55,990 incl. VAT) — Luxury 7-seater MPV, plug-in hybrid with up to 200 km electric range (CLTC).
REEV: the range extender
A REEV (Range Extended Electric Vehicle) drives 100% on electricity, but is not a plain BEV with only a bigger battery. It has a fuel tank and a petrol engine that is never mechanically linked to the wheels — it only acts as a generator to recharge the battery.
Do you still need fuel? Yes. For short trips within the electric range you will rarely use petrol. On long trips without chargers you fill up: the generator then extends your range. EV feel, petrol convenience.
Who is it for?
- You want the quiet driving feel of an EV
- You regularly make long trips without charging stress
- You want electric driving without needing a fixed charger
REEV models in our catalogue
- Forthing T5 REEV (from €37,490 incl. VAT) — 5-seater SUV. ±200 km electric (NEDC), up to ±937–971 km total range. 1.5L generator + electric motor (120 kW / ≈161 hp).
- Forthing S7 REEV (from €37,490 incl. VAT) — Sedan. 235 km electric (28.4 kWh, CLTC), up to 1,250 km total range.
Quick overview: the differences
| Feature | HEV (self-charging) | PHEV (plug-in) | REEV (range extender) |
|---|---|---|---|
| External charging | Not needed | Required | Optional (no fixed charger required) |
| How does the car drive? | Hybrid (petrol + electric) | Hybrid / electric | Always 100% electric |
| Role of the petrol engine | Helps drive the wheels | Helps drive the wheels | Acts only as a generator |
| Do you need fuel? | Yes, like a normal car | Yes, for long trips | Yes, but only for the generator |
