# EU PHEV real-world emissions discrepancies > Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/eu-phev-real-world-emissions-discrepancies > Updated: 2026-09-16T08:00:00.000Z. Sources: 11. Developments: 2. Research indicates a significant discrepancy between official laboratory testing and the real-world environmental impact of plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) in the European Union. A study by Transport & Environment (T&E) found that the gap between real-world carbon dioxide emissions and WLTP laboratory testing has widened annually since 2021, reaching a 500 per cent discrepancy in 2024. While official WLTP emissions averages for PHEVs decreased by 15 per cent between 2023 and 2024, actual real-world emissions increased by 5 per cent. Data from the Fraunhofer Institute, analyzing nearly one million European PHEVs, further highlights this gap, noting an average petrol consumption of just over 6 litres per 100 kilometres, which far exceeds the official average of 1.57 L/100 km. The research suggests that when not being charged, the heavy weight of the batteries causes PHEVs to consume 1–2 L/100 km more than standard hybrids. Experts attribute these discrepancies to user behavior and infrastructure limitations. Although companies may utilize PHEVs to meet green fleet targets, drivers often rely on petrol due to a lack of accessible charging infrastructure or the convenience of fuel cards. Without consistent charging, the environmental and economic benefits of the technology are largely lost. ## Timeline ### 2026-09-16: PHEV real-world emissions and fuel use exceed official laboratory ratings Real-world data shows PHEV emissions and fuel consumption are significantly higher than official laboratory ratings due to heavy battery weight and infrequent charging by users. 3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/phev-real-world-emissions-and-fuel-use-exceed-official-laboratory-ratings ### 2026-09-08: PHEV emissions in the EU are six times higher than laboratory tests suggest A study reveals EU plug-in hybrid emissions are up to six times higher in real-world driving than official laboratory tests suggest, with the gap widening annually. 9 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/phev-emissions-in-the-eu-are-six-times-higher-than-laboratory-tests-suggest --- Cite as: EU PHEV real-world emissions discrepancies. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/eu-phev-real-world-emissions-discrepancies