Hybrid electric cars typically combine the internal combustion engine of a conventional car with the battery and electric motor of an electric car. The combination offers low emissions, with the power, range, and convenient fueling of conventional (gasoline and diesel) cars—and hybrid cars never need to be plugged in.

Hybrid electric cars of the future could use alternative fuels such as biodiesel, natural gas, or ethanol. The flexibility of hybrid cars makes them well suited for fleet and personal transportation. 

How Hybrid Electric Cars Work

Hybrid cars are powered by two energy sources—an energy conversion unit (such as an internal combustion engine or fuel cell) and an energy storage device (such as batteries or ultracapacitors). The energy conversion unit can be powered by gasoline, diesel, compressed natural gas, hydrogen, or other fuels.

There are two types of hybrid electric car designs:

• Parallel design—In this design, the energy conversion unit and an electric propulsion system are connected directly to the car’s wheels. The car uses the primary engine for highway driving, and the electric motor provides additional power for acceleration, climbing hills, and other high-demand activities.
• Series design—In this design, the primary engine is connected to a generator that produces electricity. The electricity charges the batteries, which drive an electric motor that powers the wheels.

Some of the advanced technologies typically used by hybrids include:

Regenerative Braking. The electric motor applies resistance to the drivetrain causing the wheels to slow down. In return, the energy from the wheels turns the motor, which functions as a generator, converting energy normally wasted during coasting and braking into electricity, which is stored in a battery until needed by the electric motor.

Electric Motor Drive/Assist. The electric motor provides additional power to assist the engine in accelerating, passing, or hill climbing. This allows a smaller, more efficient engine to be used. In some cars, the motor alone provides power for low-speed driving conditions where internal combustion engines are least efficient.

Automatic Start/Shutoff. Automatically shuts off the engine when the car comes to a stop and restarts it when the accelerator is pressed. This prevents wasted energy from idling.

Hybrid Electric Car Maintenance and Safety

Hybrid cars need the same general maintenance as conventional cars. It is recommended that these cars be maintained by a qualified dealer to ensure the warranty is maintained.

Advanced batteries are part of the hybrid system, and they have a limited number of charging cycles (the number of times the battery can be charged and discharged). Today’s hybrid cars come with excellent warranties, which include the battery packs. Check with the dealer about battery life and warranties.

Hybrid cars are very safe vehicles. They undergo the same rigorous testing as conventional cars and must meet all of the same standards for safety, including crash testing and airbags.

List of Hybrid Electric Cars: