Hybrid and plug-in hybrid vehicles are becoming increasingly popular on UK roads. They promise better fuel economy, lower emissions, and tax benefits. But what happens when you want to boost performance? Can you remap a hybrid car? The short answer is: yes, but it’s more complex than traditional petrol or diesel remapping.
In this guide, Leicester Remaps explains hybrid remapping, what’s possible, the benefits, risks, and whether it’s worth considering for your PHEV.
Understanding Hybrid & Plug-in Hybrid Systems
What’s the Difference Between Hybrid and Plug-in Hybrid?
Standard Hybrid (HEV):
- Engine + electric motor work together
- Battery charges via regenerative braking
- Cannot be plugged in to charge
- Examples: Toyota Prius, Honda Civic Hybrid
Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV):
- Larger battery that can be charged from mains power
- Can run on electric power alone for 20-50 miles
- Engine kicks in for longer journeys or when battery depletes
- Examples: BMW X5 45e, Range Rover Sport PHEV, Audi Q5 TFSI e
Why Are Hybrids Different to Remap?
Hybrid systems are significantly more complex than traditional engines:
- Dual power sources – ECU must manage both engine and electric motor
- Battery management – Complex charging algorithms and discharge rates
- Regenerative braking – Captures energy during braking
- Multiple control units – Engine ECU, battery management system, hybrid control module
- Safety systems – High-voltage systems require specialist knowledge
Traditional remapping only adjusts the engine ECU. With hybrids, you’re dealing with an entire ecosystem of interconnected systems.
Can You Remap a Plug-in Hybrid?
Short answer: Yes, but with limitations.
What CAN be remapped:
- ✅ Engine performance (power, torque, throttle response)
- ✅ Fuel injection timing
- ✅ Turbo boost levels (if applicable)
- ✅ Engine efficiency
What CANNOT be remapped:
- ❌ Battery capacity
- ❌ Electric motor performance
- ❌ Charging algorithms
- ❌ Hybrid system logic
The Reality of Hybrid Remapping
When you remap a plug-in hybrid, you’re essentially remapping the petrol/diesel engine component only. The hybrid system itself remains largely unchanged.
Example: BMW X5 45e PHEV
- Engine: 3.0L turbocharged petrol (286 hp stock)
- Electric motor: 111 kW (150 hp)
- Total combined: 389 hp
A remap might increase engine output to 320-340 hp, but the electric motor remains the same. You gain performance on longer journeys or when the battery is depleted, but not during pure electric driving.
Performance Gains from Hybrid Remapping
Realistic Expectations
| Metric | Stock | Remapped | Gain |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine Power | 286 hp | 320-340 hp | +34-54 hp |
| Engine Torque | 450 Nm | 500-520 Nm | +50-70 Nm |
| 0-60 mph | 6.2 sec | 5.8-5.9 sec | -0.3-0.4 sec |
| Fuel Economy | 35-40 mpg | 32-36 mpg | -3-4 mpg |
Important note: These gains apply when the engine is running. During pure electric driving, performance remains unchanged.
When Do You Notice Performance Gains?
- ✅ Motorway driving – Engine running, noticeable improvement
- ✅ Towing – Better power delivery with load
- ✅ Acceleration – Slightly quicker 0-60
- ❌ Electric-only driving – No difference
- ❌ Short urban trips – Minimal benefit (mostly electric)
Fuel Economy & Efficiency
Will Remapping Improve MPG?
Short answer: Probably not.
A remap increases engine performance, which typically means:
- ✅ Better throttle response (can improve MPG if driven smoothly)
- ❌ More aggressive tuning (reduces MPG if driven hard)
- ❌ Higher boost levels (increases fuel consumption)
For PHEV owners specifically:
- Most driving is electric (short commutes, urban trips)
- Fuel consumption only matters when engine runs
- Remapping won’t improve electric-only efficiency
Verdict: If you drive your PHEV mostly on electric power, remapping offers minimal fuel economy benefit.
Costs of Hybrid Remapping in Leicester
Pricing
| Service | Cost | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Hybrid Remap | £349-£449 | 90-120 mins |
| Plug-in Hybrid Remap | £399-£499 | 120-150 mins |
| Hybrid Diagnostics | £79-£99 | 30-45 mins |
| Hybrid Backup/Restore | Included | N/A |
Why more expensive than petrol/diesel?
- Requires specialist diagnostic equipment
- Multiple ECUs to access and configure
- Higher risk of compatibility issues
- Longer session time for safety checks
What’s Included
- Full hybrid system diagnostics
- Engine ECU remapping only
- Hybrid system compatibility check
- Complete ECU backup (can restore to factory settings)
- 30-day support for any questions
- Lifetime software warranty
Risks & Considerations
Warranty Implications
Manufacturer warranty:
- ❌ Remapping will likely void your manufacturer warranty
- ❌ Hybrid system components especially at risk
- ✅ Our remap is fully reversible (can restore factory settings for warranty claims)
Insurance:
- ⚠️ Must declare remapping to your insurer
- ⚠️ May increase premium (typically 5-15%)
- ⚠️ Some insurers refuse modified hybrids
- ✅ Check with your insurer BEFORE remapping
Hybrid System Compatibility
Potential issues:
- Battery management system may behave differently
- Regenerative braking could be affected
- Hybrid mode switching might feel different
- Some warning lights may appear (usually false alarms)
Our approach:
- We run full compatibility diagnostics before remapping
- We monitor the hybrid system during tuning
- We test all modes (EV, hybrid, engine-only)
- We can reverse the remap if issues occur
Reliability Concerns
Will remapping damage my hybrid?
Short answer: No, if done correctly.
Hybrid systems are engineered to handle engine performance variations. However:
- ✅ Remapping increases engine stress
- ✅ Battery cycles may increase slightly
- ✅ Regenerative braking may work harder
- ⚠️ Long-term reliability impact unknown (hybrids are still relatively new)
Our recommendation:
- Maintain regular servicing
- Monitor battery health
- Use quality fuel (98 RON recommended)
- Avoid aggressive driving immediately after remap
Is Hybrid Remapping Worth It?
Best For:
- ✅ Drivers who regularly use engine power (motorway commutes)
- ✅ People towing with a PHEV
- ✅ Those wanting noticeable performance improvement
- ✅ Drivers with commercial/business vehicles
Not Recommended For:
- ❌ Drivers using PHEV mostly for electric commuting
- ❌ People concerned about warranty
- ❌ Those with strict insurance policies
- ❌ First-time remap customers
Real-World Scenario
Example: BMW X5 45e Owner
“I use my X5 for long motorway journeys to London. The hybrid system is great for fuel economy, but performance felt sluggish on the engine. After remapping, the engine feels much more responsive. I’ve gained about 50 hp and the acceleration is noticeably better. On my 200-mile journeys, I’m seeing about 3-4 mpg worse, but the performance gain is worth it for me.”
Hybrid Remapping vs Alternatives
Option 1: Remap Only (Recommended)
- Cost: £399-£499
- Benefit: +34-54 hp, better throttle response
- Downside: Limited gains on electric-only driving
- Reversible: Yes
Option 2: Hybrid Battery Upgrade
- Cost: £2,000-£5,000+
- Benefit: Larger electric range, more electric driving
- Downside: Very expensive, limited availability
- Reversible: No
Option 3: Do Nothing
- Cost: £0
- Benefit: Warranty intact, no risk
- Downside: No performance improvement
- Reversible: N/A
Verdict: Remapping offers the best value for money if you regularly use engine power.
FAQs: Hybrid Car Remapping
Can you remap a Toyota Prius?
Standard Prius hybrids can be remapped, but gains are minimal. The Prius is optimised for efficiency, not performance. A remap might add 5-10 hp, which is barely noticeable. Not recommended unless you’re a performance enthusiast.
Will remapping affect my PHEV’s electric range?
No. Remapping only affects the engine ECU, not the battery or electric motor. Your electric range will remain the same.
Can I remap my PHEV if it’s still under warranty?
Technically yes, but it will void your manufacturer warranty. We can reverse the remap if you need to claim warranty, but it’s not ideal. Check with your manufacturer first.
Is hybrid remapping legal in the UK?
Yes, hybrid remapping is legal for private vehicles. However, it must be declared to your insurer. For commercial vehicles, check with your fleet manager.
How long does a hybrid remap take?
Typically 120-150 minutes, including diagnostics, remapping, and testing. We’re fully mobile across Leicester, so we come to you.
What if I’m not happy with the remap?
We can fully reverse the remap and restore your factory settings. We keep a complete backup of your original ECU file.
Can I remap my PHEV if it has fault codes?
We recommend fixing any existing fault codes before remapping. Fault codes can interfere with the remapping process and may cause issues. We’ll diagnose any faults during the initial consultation.
Will remapping increase my fuel consumption?
Possibly. Remapping increases engine performance, which can increase fuel consumption if driven aggressively. However, if you drive smoothly, the improvement in throttle response might actually improve MPG slightly.
Why Choose Leicester Remaps for Hybrid Remapping?
Specialist Equipment
We have the diagnostic tools and expertise for hybrid systems. Not all tuners can safely remap hybrids—we can.
Safety First
We run full compatibility diagnostics before and after remapping. Your hybrid system is monitored throughout.
Fully Reversible
We keep a complete backup of your original ECU file. If you need to restore factory settings (warranty claim, insurance, resale), we can do it instantly.
Mobile Service
We come to you across Leicester, Loughborough, Hinckley, and 20-mile radius. No need to visit a workshop.
Honest Advice
We’ll tell you straight: if your PHEV isn’t suitable for remapping, we’ll say so. We don’t push unnecessary work.
Lifetime Warranty
All our remaps come with lifetime software warranty. If you have any issues, we’ll support you.
Book Your Hybrid Remapping Consultation
Thinking about remapping your PHEV? We offer a free consultation to discuss whether it’s right for your vehicle.
Call 07849475153 or request a callback to discuss your hybrid remapping options.
We’ll:
- Assess your vehicle’s suitability
- Explain realistic performance gains
- Discuss warranty and insurance implications
- Provide an accurate quote
- Answer any questions
Mobile service across Leicester, Loughborough, Hinckley, Market Harborough, and 20-mile radius.
Open Monday-Saturday, 8am-6pm. Emergency callouts available for breakdown situations.
Other Performance Services for Hybrids
Looking for other ways to improve your hybrid’s performance?
- Stage 1 Remap – Standard engine tuning for hybrids
- DPF Solutions – Diesel hybrid DPF issues
- EGR Solutions – Emissions system optimization
- Mobile ECU Remapping – All hybrid makes and models
Don’t see your vehicle? We remap all makes and models. Call 07849475153 for a quote.
