Hybrid cars are becoming increasingly popular as Apex drivers look for more fuel-efficient and environmentally friendly options. But how do hybrid cars work? Understanding how hybrid cars operate can help you decide if this type of vehicle is right for you. Essentially, hybrid cars combine a gasoline engine with an electric motor to provide power. This combination allows hybrid vehicles to switch between or simultaneously use both power sources, optimizing fuel efficiency and reducing emissions. So, what is a hybrid car and how does it work? The team at Hendrick Dodge Cary is here to break down the basics of hybrid technology and show you how these innovative vehicles function.
Parallel Hybrid vs. Series Hybrid Vehicles
Whether you’re driving a Jeep Wrangler 4xe or Dodge Hornet, hybrids are a great choice for improving fuel economy. Just what is a hybrid car, and how does it work under the hood? A hybrid vehicle actually has two power sources: a traditional internal combustion engine, and an electric battery. In hybrid systems, the two work in concert to minimize fuel consumption. Here’s how hybrid cars work in their two most common configurations, parallel and series:
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?
We went over how hybrid cars work above, but keep in mind that hybrids and plug-in electric vehicles are two distinct categories. So, how do hybrids and EVs differ? While hybrid vehicles run on the combined power of a gasoline engine and electric battery, EVs use electric power only. However, newer vehicles are beginning to blur the lines between the two. Some brands now offer plug-in hybrids, which combine the benefits of both:
- With their increased battery packs, plug-in hybrids can go further on electric power alone.
- For short distances around Carrboro, 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.
Explore Hybrid Vehicles at Hendrick Dodge Cary
If you’re curious about hybrid technology and want to see it in action, we invite you to visit us near Chapel Hill. Our team is here to help you understand what a hybrid car is, how it works, and which hybrid model is right for you. Whether you’re new to hybrids or looking to upgrade to the latest technology, we can help you find the perfect vehicle.
Contact us today to learn more and schedule your visit. Let us guide you through the world of hybrids and help you find a vehicle that fits your lifestyle and reduces your environmental footprint!
