Alfa Romeo Electric Vehicles: Questions Canadian Drivers Ask

Electric driving can sound complicated at first. There are new terms, different charging choices and plenty of questions about range. Alfa Romeo makes the move easier with the Tonale Plug In Hybrid. It combines electric driving with a gasoline engine, so you can enjoy shorter trips on battery power without changing how you plan longer journeys. Here are clear answers to the questions Canadian drivers often ask.

Does Alfa Romeo Sell an Electric Vehicle in Canada?

Alfa Romeo Canada currently highlights the Tonale Plug In Hybrid as its main electrified model. It is not a fully electric vehicle. It is a plug in hybrid, often called a PHEV. This means an electric motor, a high voltage battery and a gasoline engine are used together. The vehicle can be plugged in, but gasoline is still carried for longer drives.

What Is the Difference Between a Hybrid and a Plug In Hybrid?

A regular hybrid does not need to be plugged in. Its smaller battery is charged through the engine and regenerative braking.
A plug in hybrid has a larger battery that can also be charged from an outside power source. This lets the vehicle travel farther using electricity before the gasoline engine is needed. The Tonale can choose electric power, gasoline power or a mix of both based on the selected drive mode and driving conditions.

How Far Can the Tonale Travel on Electricity?

The Alfa Romeo Tonale PHEV offers up to 53 kilometres of estimated electric range when the battery is fully charged. That may be enough for many daily commutes, school runs or local errands.
The vehicle can keep moving after its electric charge has been used because the gasoline engine takes over. Alfa Romeo lists an estimated total hybrid range of up to 515 kilometres with a full battery and a full tank. Actual range can change with speed, traffic, temperature, climate control use and driving habits.

Can It Still Be Driven Without Charging?

Yes. The Tonale PHEV can continue driving on gasoline if the battery does not have enough charge for electric operation. You will not be left at the side of the road simply because you forgot to plug it in.
Regular charging is still recommended. The greatest fuel savings are usually enjoyed when the battery is charged often and electric power is used for shorter trips. Some gasoline must also remain in the tank for the plug in hybrid system to work properly.

How Is the Tonale Charged at Home?

A Level 1 charging cable is included with the Tonale PHEV. It can be connected to a standard 120 volt household outlet. Alfa Romeo estimates that a full Level 1 charge takes about eight hours, which makes overnight charging simple.
An available Level 2 charger uses a 240 volt connection and can complete a full charge in about 2.5 hours. Professional installation is required. Charging times may vary with the power source, battery temperature and other conditions.

Can Charging Be Scheduled?

Charging can be planned through the vehicle's infotainment system or a compatible Alfa Connect mobile app. A preferred start time and charging level can be selected.
This can be helpful for Ontario drivers who want the vehicle to charge overnight or during a preferred electricity rate period. The vehicle can be plugged in when you arrive home, then begin charging automatically at the scheduled time.

Does Regenerative Braking Charge the Battery?

Yes. Regenerative braking captures some of the energy normally lost while slowing down. That energy is converted into electricity and stored in the battery.
The Tonale also offers an E Save mode. It can maintain a selected battery charge level or help restore charge up to a set point while driving. Plugging the vehicle in remains the most effective way to fully recharge the battery.

Is an Electrified Alfa Romeo Still Fun to Drive?

Electric assistance does not remove the performance expected from Alfa Romeo. The Tonale PHEV produces 285 horsepower and an estimated 350 lb ft of torque. It can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in about 6.2 seconds.
The DNA Drive Mode Selector lets the driver choose how the electric motor and gasoline engine respond. This gives the Tonale a more personal feel than a typical efficiency focused vehicle.

Will It Work During an Ottawa Winter?

The Tonale PHEV is designed to operate in a range of weather conditions. Its gasoline engine remains available when cold temperatures reduce electric efficiency or range.
Cold weather can lower battery range because energy is used to warm the cabin and battery. Snow, winter tires, speed and road conditions can also affect efficiency. The Tonale's combination of electric and gasoline power gives drivers added flexibility when temperatures fall.

What Battery Warranty Is Included?

Alfa Romeo states that its high voltage battery is protected by a transferable warranty for eight years or 160,000 kilometres, whichever comes first. The battery and hybrid system have been designed for long term vehicle use.
Warranty conditions and exclusions may apply, so full coverage details should be reviewed with the dealership before purchase.

Does a Plug In Hybrid Cost More to Maintain?

The Tonale PHEV follows a maintenance schedule that is similar to a gasoline vehicle. It still has an engine, fluids and other parts that require routine care. Alfa Romeo states that the plug in hybrid does not need to be serviced more often than a comparable gasoline model.

NEW INVENTORY

Bring Your Electric Questions to Alfa Romeo Ottawa

Visit Alfa Romeo Ottawa to explore the Tonale Plug In Hybrid in person. Sit inside, try the technology and learn how home charging could fit your daily routine. A test drive can help you decide whether electric commuting with gasoline flexibility feels right for you.