A conventional hybrid replenishes its battery while driving and braking, and generally does not need to be plugged in. A plug-in hybrid has a larger battery that can be charged externally, so everyday access to charging becomes part of the ownership equation. Ask yourself: Can you charge at home or work? Are most trips short and predictable, or long? Do you want charging to become part of your routine? Check electric range, fuel use and performance for the exact version. Laboratory figures cannot fully represent real traffic and weather conditions.