Types of Hybrids

Hybrid cars are often grouped together in the same class; however, there are actually many different types of hybrid vehicles, each using a different type of technology to achieve higher fuel economy.

Full Hybrids

Full hybrids have a much stronger electric motor and battery; the extra boost allows the vehicle to drive solely on electric power, usually at low speeds.

Mild Hybrids

Mild hybrids have a less powerful electric motor and battery. The hybrid system provides a boost to the gasoline engine, allowing it to function at a lower capacity, which improves gas mileage.

Plug-in Hybrids

Plug-in hybrids can operate on electric power for a longer range than full hybrids. The hybrid battery can store more power through recharging, usually by an electrical outlet. The gasoline engine only operates when the battery level is low.

Series Hybrids

Series hybrids use power from the engine to generate power to charge the batteries or operate the electric motor. Series hybrids do not use the gasoline engine to directly power the vehicle at all, but only to charge the hybrid system.

Parallel Hybrids

Most hybrids in development are parallel hybrids. Parallel hybrids use the gasoline engine--in conjunction with the electric motor--to directly power the vehicle.

References

• Hybrids
• Types of Hybrids