Honda Prologue offers 240 miles for $29, while Honda Civic Hybrid achieves 530 miles for $37, erasing the electric vehicle cost advantage
The release of the Honda Prologue, an all-electric mid-size SUV, has sparked interest among environmentally-conscious consumers. However, a key concern for some early owners has been the cost of home-charging the vehicle, especially compared to fueling a hybrid.
Powerful Dual-Motor Setup and Range Variations
The Honda Prologue boasts a powerful dual-motor all-wheel-drive system, combining a permanent-magnet front motor and an induction rear motor to yield approximately 288 hp and 333 lb-ft of torque. The EPA-rated range for the Prologue varies between FWD and AWD models, with FWD versions delivering up to 296 miles per charge, while AWD trims offer roughly 273-281 miles per charge.
Home-Charging Costs and PG&E's Rate Structures
In California, where PG&E is a prominent utility company, high residential electricity rates, complex rate tiers, and surcharges can negatively impact the cost-effectiveness of charging electric vehicles at home. For some Prologue owners, home electricity costs around $0.176 per kWh, resulting in approximately $0.05 per mile, which can add up depending on driving habits and charging efficiency.
Even when charging during off-peak hours (e.g., 11 PM to 6 AM), the cost per kWh can remain high enough to make home charging relatively costly. One Reddit user reported paying $29 at home for 240 miles of range, equating to approximately $0.05 per mile. Another user, despite scheduling charging between 11 PM and 6 AM, still found costs to remain high.
Lack of Effective Solar Utilization and Hybrid Fuel Efficiency
Owners with solar panels but without home battery storage can't fully benefit from solar power during peak charging times. Excess solar power is exported back to the grid without offsetting charging costs, limiting savings. Additionally, hybrids like the Honda Civic Hybrid can achieve very high miles per gallon, reducing fuel cost per mile to below or comparable levels that make home EV charging seem more expensive in some scenarios.
Public Charging Issues
Some early owners have reported public charging issues, with drivers unable to initiate charging at functioning stations, described as a key usability concern. Commercial charging can cost $30 for 225 miles, functionally identical to gas pricing. PG&E charges double its off-peak rates from 4-9 PM, making charging during these hours particularly expensive.
Dual Charging Capabilities and Battery Placement
Despite these challenges, the Honda Prologue offers dual charging capabilities: up to 11.5 kW AC charging for home use and up to 155 kW DC fast charging. The Prologue's 85 kWh Ultium battery is located low in the chassis for balanced weight distribution.
In summary, California’s high and tiered residential electricity prices combined with EV charging patterns and limited solar battery integration can make home-charging a Honda Prologue more expensive per mile than fueling a hybrid vehicle. However, the dual charging capabilities and efficient powertrain of the Prologue offer potential for cost savings with strategic charging and the development of a more robust charging infrastructure.
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