How Do Hybrid Cars Work?

Hybrid electric vehicles combine the power of a gasoline engine with the efficiency of electric motors, all powered by batteries. Hybrids use both gas and electricity to deliver improved fuel economy, reduced emissions, and a smoother driving experience by working together or independently.

Understanding the Operation of Hybrid Cars

Hybrid vehicles are equipped with both an internal combustion engine (ICE) and an electric motor. The ICE functions like a traditional gas-powered engine, while the electric motor is powered by a battery and can operate independently or in conjunction with the gas engine.

1. Internal combustion engine (ICE). Functions like a traditional gas engine found in regular cars.

2. Electric motor. Utilizes battery power to propel the car individually or support the gas engine.

The unique aspect of hybrids lies in how these two systems interact. Depending on the circumstances, the vehicle can run on the gas engine alone, the electric motor alone (with distance limitations), or a combination of both.

• Automatic switching between these modes optimizes efficiency based on driving conditions.

Crucial Components of Hybrids and Their Functions

To understand the mechanical workings of hybrid vehicles, let’s delve into the primary parts that keep them operational.

• Stores electricity for the electric motor.

• Recharges through regenerative braking or with assistance from the gas engine.

• No need for external plug-in charging like plug-in hybrids or EVs.

• Auxiliary battery starts the car and powers accessories.

• Utilizes power from the traction battery to propel the wheels.

• Some models feature motor generators for combined drive and electric regeneration functions.

• Generates electricity from wheel rotation during braking.

• Transfers energy back to the traction battery.

• Stored energy can power the vehicle during acceleration and delay gas engine restart.

• Some hybrids combine generator and drive functions in one unit.

Hybrids employ various methods to generate and utilize power, with three hybrid system types available:

• Parallel hybrids. Directly powers wheels using the gas engine and one or more electric motors.

• Series hybrids. Drives wheels solely with the electric motor, while the gas engine charges the battery.

• Series-parallel hybrids. Combines features of parallel and series systems using a power-split device to vary power sources.

• Similar to conventional vehicle engines.

• Electric motor support allows for a smaller, more efficient engine.

Activation of the Electric Motor in Hybrids

The electric motor in hybrids is typically most active in four scenarios:

• Low-speed driving. Electric motor usage is prominent in stop-and-go traffic and at lower speeds.

• Idling. Gas engine may shut off completely when the vehicle is stationary to conserve fuel.

• Gentle acceleration. Electric power propels the vehicle until a certain speed is reached.

• Deceleration or braking. Electric motor functions as a generator during braking, returning energy to the battery.

In situations requiring more power, such as highway driving or rapid acceleration, the gas engine takes over or assists the electric motor.

Functionality of a Hybrid’s Start/Stop System

Another key feature in many hybrids is the automatic start/stop system, which performs three main functions:

1. Shuts off the engine when the vehicle stops completely.

2. Instantly restarts the engine when the brake is released or the accelerator is pressed.

3. Saves fuel during idle periods, especially in traffic or at prolonged stoplights.

Advantages of Hybrid Design