Plug-in Hybrid Vehicles 

Toyota’s Plug-in Hybrid Vehicle (PHV) represents the “best of both worlds”, combining the benefits of electric and hybrid technology to represent the next major step in our efforts to create the ultimate eco-car. This technology is currently being readied for market, undergoing verification tests in Europe, as well as in the US and Japan.

How does a PHV work?
A Plug-In Hybrid vehicle (PHV) is a full hybrid vehicle equipped with a battery that can be recharged by connecting a plug to an electric power source. A PHV functions as an emissions-free electric vehicle for short distances and as a conventional hybrid vehicle for longer trips.

It has the advantage that, when the battery runs empty, you don't have to worry about finding a plug to recharge. The vehicle will automatically switch to hybrid mode and take you anywhere, just as a conventional hybrid vehicle.