Hybrids are cars that combine at least one electric motor with a gas engine to power and move a car. It also has a system that recaptures energy through regenerative braking. Sometimes, the electric motor does all the work, and at other times the gas engine does all the work. But they can work together too. The result is less gas used and better fuel economy. Adding electric power can also boost performance.
All hybrids have a high-voltage battery pack that’s separate from the conventional 12-volt battery. It gets replenished by capturing energy that’s usually lost to heat during braking. The gas engine can also be used to charge and maintain the battery.
Types of Hybrids
Parallel Hybrid: This is the most common type. Here an electric motor(s) and gasoline engine are connected in a common transmission that combines the power sources. The transmission can be automatic, manual, or CVT. The transmission type and size of the gas engine decide how a parallel hybrid sounds, feels and accelerates.
Series Hybrid: Here, the electric motor provides the power to the wheels. The gas engine only charges the battery and is never connected to the wheels. These cars drive like proper EVs and have smoother, powerful acceleration. There’s also less vibration when the gas engine is engaged. But it doesn’t engage with how much you’re pressing the accelerator, but what the battery needs.
Plug-In Hybrid: This is like a conventional hybrid with a big battery pack. It needs to be plugged in like a full EV to be charged. These cars can go between 15 and 55 miles on battery power alone. If you have a short commute and recharge every night, then you can drive on electric power almost all the time. If the battery gets depleted, it becomes a parallel hybrid.
Variations: Honda has a design where the engine powers a generator most of the time like a series hybrid, but it can also power the wheels, like a parallel hybrid. Volvo has a system where the engine powers the front wheels, and the transmission is paired with an electrically powered rear axle. The Porsche 918 and BMW i8 are similar, but the electric-only axles are at the front.