How Do Hybrid Batteries Charge?

Regenerative Braking

Regenerative braking allows the hybrid to take energy from the car's inertia (the force that keeps the car in motion) that would otherwise be lost during braking and transfers that energy back into the batteries. When the brakes are applied, the energy generated is transferred through the car's drive train, into the engine and then subsequently into the batteries, allowing you to add charge to the battery every time the brakes are applied.

Recharging Through The Electric Engine

The hybrid car also utilizes the electric engine to recharge the batteries. Whenever the electric engine is in use (for instance, during idling), it delivers a constant charge to the batteries. Between these two methods, hybrids offer the convenience of a gas engine (no need to plug in for recharging) and the efficiency and cleanliness of an electric engine (the electric engine reduces emissions as well as enhancing fuel efficiency).