How many miles does a Honda Clarity plug-in hybrid get?
The Honda Clarity Plug-In Hybrid can travel up to 47 miles on electric power alone before the gasoline engine kicks in, providing a total range of 340 miles. This makes the Clarity one of the most fuel-efficient plug-in hybrid vehicles on the market.
Detailed Overview of the Honda Clarity Plug-In Hybrid's Fuel Efficiency
The Honda Clarity Plug-In Hybrid is a midsize sedan that combines an electric motor and a gasoline engine to provide a balance of electric driving range and overall driving flexibility. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the Clarity Plug-In Hybrid has an all-electric range of 47 miles . This means the vehicle can be driven for up to 47 miles using only the electric motor, without consuming any gasoline.
Once the battery is depleted, the 1.5-liter gasoline engine kicks in to power the vehicle and recharge the battery. In this hybrid mode, the Clarity Plug-In Hybrid is rated by the EPA to achieve 42 miles per gallon (mpg) in the city and 47 mpg on the highway . This results in a total driving range of 340 miles, making the Clarity one of the most fuel-efficient plug-in hybrid vehicles available.
Factors Affecting the Clarity Plug-In Hybrid's Fuel Efficiency
Several factors can impact the real-world fuel efficiency of the Honda Clarity Plug-In Hybrid, including:
- Driving Conditions: Factors like terrain, weather, and traffic can affect the vehicle's energy consumption and range.
- Driving Style: More aggressive acceleration and higher speeds can reduce the Clarity's electric range and overall fuel efficiency.
- Battery Charge Level: The Clarity's electric range is maximized when the battery is fully charged. As the battery depletes, the gasoline engine will be used more, reducing overall efficiency.
- Temperature: Extreme hot or cold temperatures can impact the battery's performance and range.
By being mindful of these factors and driving the Clarity Plug-In Hybrid in a fuel-efficient manner, owners can maximize the vehicle's impressive electric range and overall fuel economy.
How many miles per gallon does a Honda Clarity Plug-In Hybrid get?
The plug-in manages 42 mpg combined on the EPA scale and 110 MPGe when you consider gas and electricity together. We easily beat the EPA's combined estimate, measuring 46 mpg on the highway in hybrid mode. For comparison, we've managed 49 mpg in a Prius Prime along this same route.
How much does it cost to replace the battery in a Honda Clarity PHEV?
A Honda Clarity plug-in hybrid battery replacement can cost anywhere from approximately $8,500 to over $12,000 at a dealership, depending on the service center and whether it's a full or remanufactured unit. Some independent shops may offer lower prices, sometimes as low as $8,500, though they might not use official OEM parts. Costs can also be lower if purchasing a used battery from a third-party source, but this is not a recommended option unless you have experience with this type of repair and are prepared for potential future issues.
This video explains how much it costs to replace a hybrid battery and how to extend the battery's life: 49sGreentec EV and Hybrid BatteriesYouTube · Jun 11, 2025
Cost breakdown
- Dealership: $8,500 - $12,000+
- Independent shops: Can be lower, but depends on parts and labor
- Used parts: Potentially cheaper, but often without a warranty and with high risk
Factors that affect cost
- Part type: OEM vs. aftermarket vs. used
- Installation location: Dealership vs. independent shop
- Part quality: New vs. refurbished vs. remanufactured
- Labor costs: Can vary significantly depending on your location
- Drivetrain: All-electric versions might have slightly different replacement costs
How to get an accurate estimate
- Contact a dealership: Get a quote from a Honda dealership in your area for an OEM battery replacement.
- Contact independent hybrid/EV specialists: Get a quote from a reputable independent shop that specializes in hybrids and EVs. These shops may have different options for parts and labor that can lower costs.
- Check online parts suppliers: Look up prices for replacement batteries from online retailers, but remember that this will not include installation costs.
Why did Honda discontinue the Clarity PHEV?
Honda stopped making the Clarity Plug-in Hybrid due to low sales demand, which was influenced by factors like the car's high price point, poor market reception, and Honda's shift in strategy towards a new generation of battery-electric vehicles (BEVs). Production officially ended in August 2021 as part of Honda's larger plan to transition its portfolio to focus on future BEVs and hybrid models, such as the Insight and CR-V Hybrid.
- Low demand: Sales for all Clarity models had been declining, with only a small number of units sold in the years leading up to the discontinuation.
- Strategic shift: Honda decided to end production to focus resources on its upcoming, next-generation line of electrified vehicles, including those developed in partnership with General Motors.
- Focus on BEVs: The discontinuation was part of a long-term goal to have 100% of its sales be either battery-electric or fuel-cell electric vehicles by 2040.
- Market reception: The Clarity's high price point and polarizing exterior design contributed to its poor market acceptance compared to other electrified options.
What is the lifespan of a plug-in hybrid battery?
Plug-in hybrid (PHEV) batteries typically last 8 to 15 years or 100,000 to 150,000 miles, though they can last longer depending on factors like climate, driving habits, and maintenance. Most manufacturers provide warranties that cover the battery for a minimum of 8 years or 100,000 miles.
This video explains the factors that affect the lifespan of a hybrid battery: 57sGreentec EV and Hybrid BatteriesYouTube · Apr 30, 2025
Expected lifespan
- Time: 8 to 15 years
- Mileage: 100,000 to 150,000 miles
- Manufacturer warranties: At least 8 years or 100,000 miles, but some, particularly for vehicles sold in California, may extend to 10 years or 150,000 miles.
Factors affecting battery life
- Climate: Extreme heat or cold can degrade a battery more quickly. Parking in a garage can help protect it from harsh temperatures.
- Driving habits: Aggressive driving, frequent hard acceleration, and stop-and-go traffic can shorten battery life. More consistent, less aggressive driving is better for the battery.
- Charging habits: Over-charging and exclusive use of rapid charging stations can negatively impact the battery. It is best to avoid overcharging and follow the manufacturer's charging guidelines.
- Maintenance: Consistent maintenance and following the manufacturer's service schedule are important for longevity.
