Everything you need to know about hybrid cars: their types, principle of operation, operating features

A hybrid car is a universal vehicle that combines the work of two types of engine: an internal combustion engine and an electric motor. Although this invention is far from new, it has only gained real popularity in the last few years. This is primarily due to the development and improvement of technology. Modern hybrid cars are in no way inferior and even in some ways superior to cars with an internal combustion engine. And another important factor in the growing popularity was the increased requirements for the environmental friendliness of transport and the need to reduce fuel consumption.

There are several types of hybrid cars, and they all differ in the degree of “electrification” of the movement process and in how the work of the two engines is distributed.

• Mild hybrid – mild hybrid or micro hybrid – the easiest option. Here, a powerful starter-generator is added to the classic internal combustion engine. It participates in the process of starting and braking, while generating or consuming energy. Of the advantages – the absence of significant changes in habitual driving, some fuel economy and softer, jerk-free movement during braking / starting, which is especially noticeable and comfortable in city traffic jams.
• Parallel hybrid – a parallel hybrid – the classic and most common representative. Such a car can move both on one electric motor and in combined mode. The main advantages are the possibility of environmentally friendly and economical driving around the city without fuel consumption, and, if necessary, excellent acceleration and dynamics due to the power of two engines.
• Series hybrid – serial hybrid. The main stroke is carried out on an electric motor, and the internal combustion engine generates energy for it. In some models, the internal combustion engine is practically inactive, it serves only for those cases when the stroke charge is over.
• Plug-in hybrid, PHEV – plug-in hybrid. Differs in the presence of a connector for charging the battery. In fact, this is a full-fledged independent electric car, where in addition there is a powerful internal combustion engine. In such a tandem, great variability in driving and refueling is born, power and driving dynamics are also added.

Why are hybrids superior to internal combustion vehicles?

Understanding the principle of operation of hybrid cars and starting from the required method of use, you can choose the most comfortable and suitable option for yourself. The obvious advantages of hybrid cars are also looming, which can be distinguished:

– Economy. Fuel consumption even for microhybrids is less by 25%, fuel savings increase significantly for representatives with a more capacious battery.
— Environmental friendliness. With a decrease in fuel consumption, harmful emissions into the atmosphere are also reduced, which is beneficial for the environment and for people, respectively.
– Practicality. With the addition of an electric motor, the driving range also increases, it is possible to continue driving even when the fuel has run out. This is also facilitated by the accumulation of additional energy by the electric motor during start / deceleration.
— Silence and comfort. When driving, hybrid cars create less noise due to the reduced power of the internal combustion engine. And the operation of the electric motor, as we all know, is completely silent.

The development of automotive technology keeps pace with the times and meets all the new needs of the modern driver. The hybrid is a unique car that combines classic familiar driving with new features that add efficiency, power and significantly save our finances.