Getting to Know the Electric Hybrid Car

Is There Such Thing as an Electric Hybrid Car?

Yes. Electric hybrid cars fall under the category of hybrid electric vehicle or HEV which makes use of a highly sophisticated system that incorporates both conventional propulsion mechanism and an on-board rechargeable energy storage system or RESS. The new system achieves the goal of improved fuel economy without having to gain energy and power from an external source.

Basically, the cars are called as such since their engines use the conventional approach at one point which is power coming from gasoline as fuel and electric power at another point. Most models have an internal combustion engine or ICE and electric batteries existing in one unit.

How Do the Batteries Work?

The electric batteries are able to store kinetic energy from the actual movement and stops of the HEV. There is a mechanism called regenerative braking wherein the batteries take control of the vehicle during decelerating or when able to run solely on momentum. The ICE is also able to produce electricity.

An electrical or motor generator is spun by the ICE which in turn recharges the electric batteries or directly supplies power to the electric motor to propel the electric hybrid car. The system also automatically shuts down the ICE to let the electric batteries operate whenever the vehicle is idle or braking at traffic lights.

What are the Main Advantages of Electric Hybrid Cars?

Similar to all hybrid models, HEVs aim to have better gas mileage, lower fuel economy and a more environmentally friendly fuel source. Hybrid electric technology has been mainly used in order to improve the way hybrid cars save fuel. Some of the unique features of electric hybrid cars are their ability to power their own electrical accessories like air conditioning and sound system through recaptured kinetic energy.

Automatic shutting down of the ICE also reduces pollution and emission. When the HEV is running independently on the electric batteries at low speeds or in city traffic, the car does not use up any gasoline making it very efficient and cost-effective. Since the ICE is not used as much compared to conventional models, HEVs also will last longer.

Do Electric Hybrid Cars Need to Go to Gasoline Stations?

Yes. HEVs also consume up to 15% bioethanol since it is powered by an ICE. Almost all electric hybrid cars still use gasoline to support the ICE which is important for running at high speeds or greater power levels. Some hybrids are a combination of diesel-electric which performs better for long periods of time and does not wear down as much compared to gasoline. Other fuels may be used by manufacturers in the near future. The design of hybrid electric engines depends on the drivetrain, vehicle structure and operation.

How Much Do Hybrid Electric Cars Cost?

Currently, HEVs are more expensive compared to conventional cars since the engine, design and accessories are more complex. The question whether electric hybrid cars can help people save more is still debatable. The payback load or the difference between the higher cost of the car and future fuel expenses will depend on how much the car will be used.

Some drivers who replace conventional cars every few years may find hybrids impractical. For long term car ownership, hybrids appear very promising and one can definitely save more in maintenance and fuel.