How Do Hybrid Cars Work?

What is a hybrid car, and how does it work? Hybrid vehicles are a mix of electric and gasoline vehicle technology, the result being vehicles that have many of the benefits of both. For a more in-depth exploration of how hybrid cars work on the streets of Union and South Plainfield, keep reading! If you have any questions at all, get in touch with us! How do hybrid cars work? Let us explain.

Parallel Hybrid vs. Series Hybrid Vehicles

A hybrid vehicle uses two sources of power, a traditional internal combustion engine and an electric battery that powers an electric motor. Depending on the model of hybrid, these two sources work together in different combinations depending on what the driver decides to get the most efficiency possible. Here are some more details about parallel and series hybrids:

Parallel Hybrid

Most hybrids on the market today are parallel hybrids. In these vehicles, both the electric motor and the gasoline engine are connected to the transmission, whether it’s an automatic, manual, or CVT system. They work by blending both power sources together.

Series Hybrid

Series hybrids also use an electric motor paired with a gasoline engine, but only the electric motor is paired with the transmission. In these vehicles, the electric motor is the sole source of power and the gasoline engine acts as a generator for the electric motor.

How Do Hybrid Cars Work Compared to Plug-In Electric Vehicles?

Electric motors are much more efficient than conventional engines, which is why hybrids are much more efficient. That said, as one might expect, a pure EV is the ultimate in terms of using power efficiently. Here’s the details:

• With their increased battery packs, plug-in hybrids can go further on electric power alone than standard hybrids.
• For short distances around South Plainfield, you can use a plug-in hybrid much like you’d drive an EV — relying on 100% electric power all day and recharging at night.
• If you’ll be heading out on a longer trip that exceeds the electric driving range, you can fill up on gasoline like you would with a conventional powertrain.
• Because they don’t rely solely on electricity, hybrid plug-in vehicles take between 1 and 4 hours to fully charge.

Discover Hybrid Power with VIP Honda

Whether you stay with a conventional engine powered vehicle, a hybrid, or a full EV, we’ve got options for you. New vehicles, used vehicles, and certified pre-owned vehicles are all available here near Kenilworth.