Do you currently run traditional gasoline-powered cars? But, electric vehicles have gained popularity in the automotive market. Automotive engineers have embraced the trend of using EVs, as they are eco-friendly cars. Still, you have not yet shifted from a traditional car to a fully electrically driven model. The best decision is to opt for a hybrid electric car that combines electrically powered batteries and traditional combustion engines. Hybrid vehicles have revolutionized the industry with their high efficiency, superb performance, and environmental friendliness. Before buying hybrid cars, you should know about their merits and demerits.
What are hybrid vehicles?
A standard hybrid car is equipped with different propulsion systems-
- A rechargeable battery to power electric motors
- Internal combustion engine driven by gasoline.
The electric motor receives energy from the high-voltage rechargeable battery pack. However, it will drive the car at a comparatively low speed. On the contrary, the combustion engine supplies torque that allows your car to accelerate its speed.
It is to be noted that hybrid electric vehicles are slightly different from plug-in hybrids. HEVs have a blend of electric drive systems (very high voltage) and ICE. Regenerative braking systems allow you to recharge the EV battery.
Buying hybrid cars: The most vital components of hybrid electric cars
When an electric powertrain is combined with a conventional engine, it results in a hybrid car. Find the list of the major components of HEVs.
- ICE– The internal combustion engine is the main power source for your hybrid cars. It helps you drive your car at the desired speed.
- Electric motor– It is an alternative source to power your vehicle. It facilitates the engine during acceleration to boost fuel economy and performance standards. A battery pack stores electric energy to run the vehicle. It also allows you to charge the car’s battery while the vehicle depends on the regenerative brakes.
- Battery pack– The electric motor receives power from the battery pack, which works as the fuel tank. It saves electrical energy through the generator and regenerative brakes. Other electrical parts (like lights) also get power from the battery pack.
- Fuel tank– Like traditional cars, hybrid vehicles come with a fuel tank to keep the fuel secure. As these cars have electric powertrains, fuel usage will be low.
- Transmission– Hybrid cars depend on traditional transmission like typical petrol cars. The system sends power generated by ICE to drive shafts. There is no difference in the transmission’s working principle.
- Generator– Another significant component in the hybrid model is the generator. This component draws power from the engine to run the electric motor. It also helps you recharge your battery pack.
How does a hybrid vehicle work?
There is an interplay between various internal components of the hybrid electric vehicle. The hybrid car first triggers its ICE like a standard vehicle. The powerful engine helps in running the car while charging the battery pack.
The electric motor works with the engine during acceleration. The motor gets power from the integrated battery and sends it to the drivetrains. It leads to a boost in efficiency and torque. Some hybrid vehicles use only the electric motor to drive around the city. They use the combustion engine just when the cars go above a particular speed.
When you apply the brake, its regenerative braking system harnesses kinetic energy. The electric motor produces electrical energy from kinetic energy. It then stores the electrical energy in the battery pack. Regular charging ensures the batteries will be charged for the motor assistance.
There is also an advanced energy management system to analyze battery charge, driving conditions, and other factors. The overall energy will be optimized with this system.
Pros of buying hybrid cars
Hybrid electric cars have gained popularity for various reasons-
An eco-friendliness
Hybrid vehicles are better than gasoline cars because they do not cause damage to the environment. The twin-powered engine reduces fuel usage and saves energy. Although the car depends on gasoline, the amount of usage will be comparatively low.
No issue with the range anxiety
Many electric vehicle owners fear that their cars do not have much charge to move to their destinations. HEVs are more advantageous than battery-only cars, and you will have no range anxiety. If there is a low charge in your high-voltage battery, the vehicle will start relying on the ICE. The automatic transition makes your journey more comfortable.
Higher resale value
With the higher popularity of hybrid vehicles and a hike in gas prices, many consumers look for fuel-efficient models. So, your hybrid electric car will have a high resale value. If you want to sell your car in the future, invest in the hybrid models. You will get a good return from the sale.
Smaller engines and lightweight designs
Hybrid vehicles have small yet efficient gasoline engines. Batteries alone are not powerful enough to drive the car. Moreover, modern hybrid cars are designed with lightweight materials that consume less energy for driving. The lighter and smaller engine will save more energy.
Demerits of hybrid electric vehicles
HEVs have some disadvantages that cause concerns to consumers.
Less power
The gasoline-driven engine of the HEV is smaller, and the electric motor is not very powerful. The combined power of 2 engines is also low when compared to gas-powered engines. You can use the car for city driving. It is not recommended to drive a hybrid car for long-distance travel.
A costly model
You should have a slightly higher budget to buy a hybrid vehicle. But, you can save on running costs.
Higher maintenance charges
Continuous technological refinements and dual engines make it challenging to repair the vehicle. So, the maintenance charge will also be higher. Moreover, you need to rely on highly trained and qualified technicians for repair and maintenance.
Conclusion
The trend of buying hybrid cars will revolutionize the industry, as these cars have shown excellent performance. These vehicles allow you to take advantage of electric motors and gas-powered engines.
