How Does a Hybrid Car Work?

The Basic Concept

A hybrid is any vehicle that uses two or more sources of power for propulsion. In cars, this most often refers to a Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV), which relies on both an electric motor and an internal combustion engine. This is done in an effort to achieve greater fuel efficiency.

Petroleum Fuel Engine Assistance

This model of hybrid relies mainly on its internal combustion engine, with the electric motor being capable of only low speeds. Typically, this model will use the electric motor when idling, and then use it to accelerate up to about 20 or 25 mph. Then, the gasoline-powered engine will be automatically started and take over for providing propulsive power. The Toyota Prius is an example of this type of hybrid.

Electric Engine Assistance

This model of hybrid uses a lower power internal combustion engine, geared around maximum fuel efficiency. In order to achieve extra power for things like climbing hills or hard acceleration, the car has an electric motor which kicks in to provide the added power. Honda hybrids work on this principle.

Plug-In Hybrid Electic Vehicles (PHEV)

This Hybrid model is an attempt to circumvent the limits on a purely electric, battery-driven car. It relies entirely on its battery for motive power during the first several dozen miles of driving. When the battery is exhausted, the internal combustion engine on board is then used to either recharge the battery, or for a short trip to a recharging station.