About Hybrid Electric SUVs

Hybrid sport utility vehicles (SUVs) have a great advantage over their Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) only counterparts. Weight, poor aerodynamics and fuel consumption have been a great handicap on such large automobiles, making the hybrid model a great addition among SUV enthusiasts, a double source of energy under the same hood that not only has increased mileage but lowered emissions.

Function

A hybrid electric SUV integrates a conventional internal combustion engine with electric batteries or electric double-layer capacitors as part of a rechargeable energy storage system (RESS). The energy for these systems is delivered through a regenerative braking system or electrical generator which drives an electric motor. The braking system literally transforms its stopping action into energy for later use, usually during engine idle times.

Features

Most hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs) run their electric motors by shutting down the combustion engine during engine idle as in a stop light. At this time, the electric motor runs the air conditioner, water pump, steering pump and similar accessories operated by the engine, until the combustion engine is engaged to resume driving. This action not only saves fuel but cuts down on emissions.

History

Although HEVs hit the auto market in great numbers during the last part of the 1990s, important developments on the electric hybrid system dates back to 1901, with Ferdinand Porsche's Mixte series-hybrid engine. Subsequent electric models came in 1915 (with the Dual Power by Woods Motor Vehicle) and in 1931 (with a design by Erich Gaichen). But it is Victor Wouk who took the title of Godfather of the Hybrid because of his contributions to the improvement of the double-powered engine during the 1960s and 1970s. It was not until 2004 though, that the first hybrid electric SUV reach the market with the Ford Escape Hybrid.

Significance

The popularity of sport utility vehicles combined with the need for fuel economy and lower emissions have forced cooperation among the most important automakers around the world. In 2004, Ford and Toyota reached a mutual licensing agreement to share hybrid technologies, making the Ford Escape hybrid possible. A year later, Toyota introduced Highlander and Lexus RX 400h hybrids. Although previous partnerships existed between important automakers, that same year General Motors, Daimler, ChryslerLLC and BMW signed the Global Hybrid Cooperation pact.

Identification

Several hybrid SUV models are now available to the public, including the Mazda Tribute, Toyota Highlander, GMC Yukon, Chevrolet Tahoe, Mercury Mariner, Ford Escape, Lexus 400h and Saturn Vue Green Line.

Resources

• Hybrid SUVs are among the most popular vehicles.