How Do Hybrid Cars Work?

2023 Honda Accord Hybrid sitting in a parking lot
 

We’ve been hearing about them for many years, but hybrid electric technology has proven a major leap in recent years for automakers. Many Sparta Twp drivers have been asking questions. Whether it’s “How do hybrid cars work?,” or the lengthy, “What is a hybrid car and how does it work?”, we’ve gotten similar ones for years.

 

 

At Sussex Honda, we have a selection of the latest hybrid and electric vehicles for your convenience. For those who want to know how hybrid cars work, we’ve got the answers. Read on to learn more and after browsing our inventory, call us at 855-860-7860 or online to schedule an appointment.

Parallel Hybrid vs. Series Hybrid Vehicles

No matter if you’re driving a CV-Hybrid or Accord Hybrid, hybrid vehicles are an ideal selection when you want to improve your fuel economy. Yet what is a hybrid vehicle and how does it work under the engine? To answer that length question, “What is a hybrid car and how does it work,” it’s actually a fusion. Hybrids use two power sources, a traditional internal combustion engine and an electric battery. Hybrid systems allow the two to work in concert, minimizing your existing fuel consumption. When fused together, hybrid systems can work in concern to minimize fuel consumption. In getting to the bottom of how hybrid cars work, there’s two common configurations for those considering one around Hackettstown.

Parallel Hybrid

A majority of hybrid vehicles on the roads nowadays are Parallel Hybrids. In these models, the electric motor and gasoline engine are connected to the transmission. It could be an automatic, manual, or CVT system, no matter what they’re merged together. This works by blending both power sources together.

Series Hybrid

In contrast, Series Hybrids will utilize an electric motor paired with a gasoline engine. Yet it’s only the electric motor paired with the transmission. Within these vehicles, the electric motor is the sole powersource, while the gasoline engine acts as a generator for the electric motor.

How Do Hybrid Cars Work Compared to Plug-In Electric Vehicles?

Now that we’ve clarified how do hybrid cars work, let’s look towards what’s the difference between hybrids and plug-in electric vehicles. For Hackettstown drivers, this is a key source of many questions. Hybrid vehicles will operate on the combined power of a gasoline engine and an electric battery. In contrast, electric vehicles will only use electric power only. Yet many newer vehicles have started to blur that distinction. Some automotive manufacturers now provide plug-in hybrids to merge them together:

  • Featuring their increased battery packs, plug-in hybrids will be able to go on electric power solely.
  • When handling short distances around Sparta Twp, a plug-in hybrid operates on a similar level as an electric vehicle. These rely on 100% electric power all day, while recharging at night.
  • For those heading out on a longer trip that exceeds the electric driving range, they can be filled with gasoline, much like a conventional powertrain.
  • Since they don’t rely only on electricity, hybrid plug-in vehicles take between one and four hours to fully charge.

Discover Hybrid Power With Sussex Honda

Now that we’ve answered how do hybrid vehicles work, you’re probably wondering, where can I test drive one? Come to Sussex Honda for any test drives and scan our new vehicle specials to determine if one of our hybrids fall under it. As more hybrids, electric vehicles, and plug-in hybrids appear on the roadways outside of Newton, see which one meets your needs. You can also apply for financing before setting foot in our dealership or reach out to our finance center with questions. Call us or contact online and find a future hybrid with us at Sussex Honda and check out our post on gap insurance! See you shortly!

 

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