Series-parallel Hybrid Car Systems

Hybrid Car Types

Hybrid-electric vehicles (HEVs) combine the benefits of gasoline engines and electric motors and can be configured to obtain different objectives, such as improved fuel economy, increased power, or additional auxiliary power for electronic devices and power tools. Compare Hybrids Side by Side

Basic Hybrid Types - Electric Models - Hybrid Systems - Series-parallel Hybrid - System Components - Driving

Series-parallel hybrid systems

The series-parallel hybrid system uses an electric motor to drive the vehicle at low loads and low speeds and the gasoline engine when loads and speeds increase. The electric motor and the gasoline engine can work individually, or together, depending on the power required to drive the vehicle. In addition, as the system drives the wheels, the combustion engine drives a generator to simultaneously generate electricity to recharge the battery when necessary.

A control unit determines the best balance of engine and electric power to achieve the most efficient vehicle operation. The combustion engine operates within its most efficient range resulting in a vehicle that reduces exhaust emissions by 80% to 90% compared to conventional vehicles. It also produces about half the amount of carbon dioxide.

The electric motor uses power from a high voltage battery, which is charged by the internal combustion engine, and by reclaiming the waste energy of decelerating or braking.