How Do Hybrid Electric Cars Work?
Hybrid electric vehicles are powered by an internal combustion engine and one or more electric motors, which uses energy stored in batteries . A hybrid electric vehicle cannot be plugged in to charge the battery. Instead, the battery is charged through regenerative braking and by the internal combustion engine. The extra power provided by the electric motor can potentially allow for a smaller engine. The battery can also power auxiliary loads and reduce engine idling when stopped. Together, these features result in better fuel economy without sacrificing performance. Advantages of HEV vehicles: lower fuel consumption and the related reduction in CO 2 emissions compared to similarly sized and powerful vehicles equipped only with a combustion engine the possibility of regenerative braking , which not only reduces consumption but also saves the brakes better efficiency and more eco-friendly operation in the city wider use of electric drivetrain te...