Hybrid Car Overview
A hybrid car is defined as a combination of two energy sources; an internal combustion engine (mechanical energy) and a battery pack (electrical energy). Although more expensive compared to conventional cars, hybrids are gradually becoming more popular due to energy crisis, rising fuel, cheaper technology and higher environmental awareness. Based on principle of operation, hybrids can be classified into three types:
- Series Hybrid:
The internal combustion engine does not directly move the wheels, only used to generate electricity. Engine operates at an optimal capacity and recharges the battery until it is fully filled. The wheels are powered completely by electric energy from the battery. The engine is turned on again when the battery is nearly depleted. E-REV is another name for series hybrid car, also defined as an electric (not hybrid) car that uses a gasoline engine as internal recharger.
- Parallel Hybrid:
Both the thermal and the electric motor are used simultaneously to move the car. It is a relatively simple technological solution and also the most efficient.
- Combined Hybrid:
A hybrid car that uses both series and parallel configuration. Series hybrid is more efficient in low speed and parallel hybrid at high speed.
Chevrolet Volt (or Opel Ampera) uses series hybrid, Honda Civic Hybrid uses parallel hybrids, while Toyota Lexus uses combined configuration. Hybrids can be classified in other ways:
- Mild-hybrid:
The electric motor is used to assist the internal combustion engine, but can’t completely propel the car using the battery alone.
- Pure hybrid or full-hybrid:
The car can be powered by both internal combustion engine and electric motor, alternately or simultaneously.
- Plug-in hybrid or PHEV:
The car can also be charged by an external electrical source and run for 32 miles or more on battery power alone.
It is expected that between 2010 and 2015, 3.2 million electric cars and plug-in hybrids will be sold worldwide. China will become the largest market for electric cars and plug-in hybrids in the future, with more than 888,000 units will be until 2015, which represent 27 percent of global sales.
How A Hybrid Car Work’s ?
Please Watch This Youtube Video To Know More How A Hybrid Car Work’s. (Our Special Thanks To GreenCars.com For this Video).
Advantages and disadvantages
Unlike other alternative propulsion systems, hybrids have the advantage of capable using fossil fuels available in many gas stations, but with much lower consumption compared to conventional models. This is because hybrids recover wasted energy better than conventional models, for example by using regenerative braking.
Hybrids are very efficient, quieter, cleaner and based on a mature technology. Some countries offer subsidies and tax benefits for hybrids. These cars require no special maintenance compared to conventional cars. The reliability of the combined electric motor and batteries configuration is much higher than conventional cars, it is less likely for you to be stranded in the middle of nowhere because your car breaks down. The trouble with hybrids is that their batteries have adverse effects on the environment if not recycled properly. On the other hand, hybrid cars can be difficult to find or unavailable in many less developed countries.
Most hybrid Cars store energy in lithium-ion battery packs, but these batteries have started many debates due to its short life (only three years) and need to be recharged regularly. In addition, lithium is a rare commodity and some of the largest reserves are located in politically unstable countries, which make it questionable whether electric cars and hybrids are sustainable when produced in massive number. Some researchers have experimented with nanotechnology to come up with a more affordable alternative for energy storage, for example: liquid redox batteries, which does not suffer wear and can be recharged quickly, however there are still some concerns on its environment impacts, but it is one of the most promising prototypes to replace lithium ion batteries.
