MPGe vs. MPG Comparison

Hybrid and fully-electric vehicles have rapidly grown in popularity for a wide variety of reasons. Some drivers are attracted to the smooth power delivery and responsive acceleration that simply cannot be matched by traditional gasoline vehicles. Others are drawn to their advanced technology and dynamic styling. Perhaps the most common reason for a driver to consider a hybrid or electric vehicle is their exceptional fuel efficiency. From the convenience of plugging in and charging up in the convenience of your own garage to saving substantial amounts of money with fewer trips to the gas station — the efficiency of a hybrid or electric vehicle is simply unmatched.

MPG vs MPGe

As you’re researching your hybrid or electric vehicle options, you’ve probably noticed how some vehicles have their fuel economy rated by “MPGe”. You may be asking yourself, what exactly does MPGe mean? Well, simply stated, MPGe stands for “Miles Per Gallon Equivalent”. Traditional MPG measures how many miles your vehicle is able to travel using one gallon of gasoline. Since hybrid and fully-electric vehicles don’t always need gasoline to operate, “MPGe” is more useful metric for comparing energy consumption for electric vehicles.

What is kWh/100 Miles?

In order to create the MPG equivalent, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) uses an established energy standard of 115,000 BTUs (British thermal units) per gallon of gasoline. Simplified, this means that if you ignited 1 U.S. gallon of unleaded gasoline, it would generate that much heat. To create that same amount of heat, 33.7 kilowatt-hours of electricity would be required. Thus, 1 gallon of gasoline generates the same ‘heat energy’ as 33.7 kilowatt-hours of electricity.

If an electric vehicle is able to travel 100 miles on 33.7 kWh of electricity (the energy equivalent of 1 gallon of gasoline), it would be rated with an MPG equivalency of 100 MPGe. Let’s say a different electric car can travel that same 100 miles while using 32 kWh, slightly less than the previous example. This second electric car would receive a rating of 105 MPGe since it’s more efficient. Just like traditional MPG ratings for a gasoline-powered vehicle, the EPA rates MPGe across city, highway, and combined fuel economy.

Mileage Range Rating for Electric Vehicles

Another key component listed on the EPA sticker is the range rating. This lists how far the vehicle is rated to drive on electric power alone – and for hybrid vehicles how far it can continue on gasoline power – given a fully charged battery. Keep in mind that the EPA bases its calculations on the premise that because of various charging options, the typical EV will have only 90 percent of a full charge. It’s best to use this number as a guide, rather than an absolute value.

It’s also important to note that much like the MPG of a gasoline vehicle, EV range can vary widely depending on how you drive. Cargo load, terrain, climate, and how much of a lead foot you have each play a role in determining your exact MPGe.

MPGe Comparison in Luxury Hybrid & Electric Vehicles

Here at Blue Grass MOTORSPORT, you can discover the latest eco-focused luxury vehicles available on the market. Searching for versatility? The adventurous Range Rover Sport PHEV and dynamic Porsche Cayenne E-Hybrid deliver uncompromised comfort. Great for those living active lifestyles, the Jaguar I-PACE, and the Audi e-tron each deliver groundbreaking technology to enhance every drive. Are you passionate about performance? The Porsche Taycan proves that exhilaration and race-bred handling are possible through electric innovation. If you’re ready to join the electric driving revolution, Blue Grass MOTORSPORT has options to suit every driving style.

Now that you’ve learned all about the difference between MPG and MPGe, Blue Grass MOTORSPORT wants to introduce you to the available hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and electric vehicles available at our dealerships. You’ll discover plenty of options to suit your driving needs and lifestyle.

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