What Is a Hybrid Car? Discover the Best Hybrid Cars and How They Work

Posted Thursday, Jul 13, 2023

Are you in search of a smarter, more affordable way to hit the road? Look no further than hybrid cars! We will discuss the remarkable benefits of hybrid cars, answering key questions such as "What is a hybrid car?" and "How does a hybrid car work?"

Hybrids are cost-effective and have great fuel economy. They also provide an eco-friendly solution to today's environmental issues. Plus, with the ever-growing market for used hybrids, you have a world of affordable choices at your fingertips.

What Is a Hybrid Car?

A hybrid car is a vehicle that combines the power of a traditional petrol or diesel engine with an electric motor. This combination provides an extra boost of power and helps you save money on fuel.

Inside a hybrid car, you'll discover two essential elements: an internal combustion engine (ICE) and an electric motor. But wait, there's more! Hybrid cars also come equipped with two batteries – one exclusively for the ICE and another to power the electric motor.

This smart dual battery setup ensures a dependable and efficient power flow. Hybrid cars stand out due to their ability to switch between power sources. This provides the driver with the freedom to use fuel efficiently, which has a positive effect on the environment.

How Does a Hybrid Car Work?

Hybrid cars are categorized into different types based on how their electric motor and battery work together: full parallel, series, mild, and plug-in. Each design has its own unique way of powering the car.

 

Full Parallel Hybrids

 

Full parallel hybrids have sophisticated systems. The internal combustion engine and the electric motor can work separately or together to power the car, meaning they have three ways of powering the engine. It can be powered directly by the engine, directly by the electric motor, or through a combination of both.

 

What makes full hybrids a great choice is their capability to operate solely on electric power, even if only at lower speeds encountered in city driving. The batteries in these hybrids are charged through regenerative braking and the internal combustion engine, ensuring a continuous power supply without requiring external charging.

 

Series Hybrids

 

In a series hybrid, the electric motor takes the spotlight by powering the wheels directly, while the gasoline engine plays a different role as a generator. Unlike other hybrid types, the gasoline engine never directly propels the wheels. Instead, it serves the purpose of recharging the battery, ensuring a continuous supply of electric power. This unique setup delivers a driving experience reminiscent of an electric car, characterized by smoother and more powerful acceleration.

 

Mild Hybrids

 

In a mild hybrid system, the focus is not on electric-only propulsion. Instead, it provides a gentle boost to the gasoline engine, especially during acceleration from a standstill, and assists in alleviating the power demands of energy-hungry systems like air conditioning.

 

The batteries in these hybrids are replenished through a combination of power generated by the gasoline engine and energy recaptured during braking, just like in full parallel hybrids. 

Mild hybrids are often the most affordable option for hybrid buyers, offering a straightforward propulsion system with moderate improvements in power and efficiency.

 

Plug-In Hybrids

Plug-in hybrid cars bring a new level of hybrid driving experience by featuring a larger battery that can be charged externally at your home or at public charging stations. It's similar to having a bigger gas tank, as it enables extended all-electric driving (up to 55 miles, depending on the model) and significantly reduces your fuel consumption.

Plug-in hybrids are the closest you can get to an electric car within the hybrid car family. When you exceed the electric-only range, the car seamlessly switches back to operating as a conventional parallel hybrid.

 

Best Used Hybrid Cars

 

Honda Accord Hybrid

The Honda Accord Hybrid is the perfect option for those in search of a comfortable sedan with outstanding fuel efficiency. Its spacious cabin offers generous room for passengers and cargo without sacrificing storage space compared to the regular Accord model.

Powered by an Atkinson-Cycle 2.0-Liter 4-Cylinder Engine and two electric motors, this hybrid system delivers a combined total of 212 horsepower and 232 lb.-ft. of electric motor torque. Furthermore, with an impressive fuel economy of 48 mpg in both city and highway driving, the Honda Accord Hybrid leads the way in the midsize hybrid category.

 

Lexus RX 450h

 

The Lexus RX 450h is the epitome of a luxury hybrid car, perfectly suited for families. Its smooth and quiet operation, along with high-quality cabin materials that elevate the luxurious feel, create an exceptional driving experience.

Notably, the Lexus RX 450h shines in terms of fuel efficiency in the SUVs category, boasting an impressive combined rating of 30 mpg (31 city/28 highway). Under the hood, the Lexus RX 450h houses a robust 308-horsepower hybrid powertrain. This powertrain combines the strength of a 3.5-liter V6 engine with the efficiency of hybrid technology, delivering a potent and exhilarating driving experience.

 

Toyota Camry Hybrid

 

​One of the best and cheapest hybrid cars in the market is the Toyota Camry Hybrid. With an impressive combined fuel efficiency rating of 52 mpg, this vehicle keeps you on the road for longer, while saving you money at the pump. Its robust performance is attributed to a powerful blend of a lithium-ion battery, a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, and an electric motor, generating a combined output of 208 horsepower. This dynamic powertrain guarantees a seamless and highly responsive driving experience, all while maintaining exceptional fuel efficiency.

 

Hybrid cars are a smart choice that not only contributes to a greener planet but also helps you save money in the long run. With their impressive fuel economy, you can say goodbye to frequent gas station visits and enjoy substantial fuel cost savings. Moreover, the driving experience they offer is exceptional, combining power, efficiency, and a smooth ride.

The best part is that the range of hybrid cars available is expanding every day, providing you with a wide array of options to suit your preferences and needs. At Lux Auto Centre, we take pride in offering cutting-edge hybrid cars that embody innovation and luxury. Visit us today and discover the hybrid car of your dreams.