What Is a Hybrid?
Posted on November 9, 2009
In genetics, a hybrid is the result of combining elements from different species. When it comes to cars and trucks, a hybrid refers to a vehicle whose powertrain combines the aspects of different technologies (i.e. gasoline and electric) to improve efficiency and reduce emissions.
In automotive terms, hybridization is nothing new. Hybrid cars and trucks that combined an electric motor with a gasoline engine date back to the turn of the 20th century. Hybrid diesel-electric locomotives have been in operation for years, and diesel-electric buses began to appear in the 1970s.
These days, automotive choices that combine two or more sources of power are known as hybrid vehicles. The most common is the electric hybrid, which melds a gasoline engine with an electric setup (electric motor, charging system, and a battery/storage system).
Parallel vs. Series
Due to the inherent complexity of the technology involved, and the numerous options engineers have in employing hybrid systems, we’re forced to speak in some general terms here. That said, the two most popular forms of hybrids available today are called “series” or “parallel” hybrids. Series hybrids are also called “mild” or “partial” hybrids, while parallel hybrids are often referred to as “full” hybrids.
In a series hybrid, an electric motor assists the gasoline engine when needed, such as during acceleration or times of heavy load, but it can’t power the car on its own. The batteries that power the electric motor can be recharged by the engine, or during deceleration (called regenerative braking).
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