What is a hybrid car?

The term “hybrid car” is now an indispensable part of the automotive world. In this blog we will delve deeper into the question: what is a hybrid car? We will also pay attention to the advantages and disadvantages of hybrid cars and the operation of this special type of car.

What is a hybrid car?

What is a hybrid car? The term hybrid means that the vehicle is powered by both a combustion engine and an electric motor. With a combustion engine, fuel is taken from the tank and driven on. The electric motor uses power from the battery that is also in the car. Hybrid cars are known for charging themselves while driving. This happens when you slow down. The brakes then produce energy, which is stored in the battery.

Various hybrid cars

There is a difference between an electric and a hybrid car. Read more about the difference between an electric car and a hybrid here. However, within hybrid vehicles you will also find different types:

• Full hybrid (HEV): This vehicle can run entirely on both engines.
• Semi-hybrid or mild hybrid (MHEV): these cars also run on both engines, but in this case the electric engine and the combustion engine work together. They do not work independently of each other.
• Plug-in hybrid (PHEV): these cars must be charged using a plug at charging stations.

What is the advantage of a hybrid car?

The most frequently heard advantage of a hybrid car is its energy efficiency and environmental friendliness. Read more about environmentally friendly driving here. Whether you drive a full or half hybrid car, you drive at least ten percent more economically with a hybrid. Other advantages of a hybrid vehicle are:

• Hybrid cars provide a better image, so hybrid company cars are perfect for a sustainable company.
• Tax benefits, because for example there is a half rate for road tax
• Charging a battery at charging stations is cheaper than refueling with petrol or diesel.
• Hybrid cars have quiet engines.

Are there also disadvantages?

There are also a number of disadvantages to driving a hybrid car. Firstly, hybrid cars are more expensive to buy, because they are not yet produced as much and are more difficult to make. Secondly, space must be reserved in the car for both the combustion engine and the battery, which is at the expense of seating space. A final disadvantage is that the range of plug-in hybrid cars is smaller. So you have to charge your car every so often. As a beginner, it may not be the best choice, these cars are better for novice drivers. 

How does a hybrid car work?

A hybrid car still has a traditional combustion engine, usually on petrol. This engine drives the car and also charges the batteries by means of a generator. In addition to the combustion engine, this car has an electric motor that is powered by batteries. Read this blog to find out whether it is wise to buy a second-hand electric motor. These batteries store energy generated during braking (regenerative braking) and when the combustion engine is running. When the driver brakes, the electric motor acts as a generator. Instead of just slowing down through friction braking, kinetic energy is converted into electricity and fed back into the batteries. The electric motor can propel the car independently at low speeds or under light loads, and it is also used to assist with acceleration.