How Do Hybrid Cars Work?

With advancements in hybrid technology, the opportunity of upgrading to an efficient vehicle is easier and more affordable than ever. If you’re new to the world of hybrids and EVs, you’ll no doubt be wondering, “How do hybrid cars work? Honda currently offers the Honda Accord Hybrid sedan and the Honda CR-V Hybrid SUV, and both feature the innovative Honda Two-Motor Hybrid-Electric System which can help you get the most out of every gallon of gas. Learn more about how hybrid cars work in this guide from Honda of Turnersville, then contact us to schedule a test drive at our dealership near Marlton today!

Parallel Hybrid vs. Series Hybrid Vehicles

The models in the new hybrid inventory are engineered to maximize efficiency on the roads in and around Vineland. There are basically two types of hybrid configurations, parallel and series. Take a look at both to get an idea about how hybrid cars work:

Parallel Hybrid

The majority of hybrids currently offered are parallel hybrids. In these vehicles, both the electric motor and the gasoline engine are connected to the transmission, and they work by blending both power sources together to help boost fuel economy.

Series Hybrid

Series hybrids also use an electric motor paired with a gasoline engine, but only the electric motor is paired with the transmission. In these vehicles, the electric motor is the sole source of power and the gasoline engine acts as a generator for the electric motor.

How Do Hybrid Cars Work? Honda Hybrids

Honda hybrid vehicles feature a powertrain that includes a traditional internal combustion engine paired with two electric motors and a hybrid battery. The cool thing about the Honda Hybrid System is that it operates as both a parallel and a series hybrid. Most of the time a Honda hybrid works as a series hybrid, with the electric motor providing propulsion and the gas engine handling the generator/starter motor functions. However, under certain conditions, such as driving at steady highway speeds, the system will switch to parallel hybrid operation.

How Hybrid Cars Work: Plug-In Hybrid Vehicles

What’s the difference between hybrid and plug-in hybrid vehicles? All hybrids run on the combined power of a gasoline engine and electric battery, but plug-in hybrids can run solely on electric power for short distances. As the name implies, a plug-in hybrid will need to be plugged into a power source to recharge the battery. Here are some of the key :

• Plug-in hybrids have a much larger battery than a hybrid.
• You can drive on 100% electric power for short distances when running errands around Berlin.
• If you’re heading out on a longer trip that exceeds the electric driving range, you can have peace-of-mind that the gas engine will take over when the electric power is depleted.
• Plug-in hybrid vehicles take between 1 and 4 hours to fully charge.

Explore Your Hybrid Options at Honda of Turnersville

There are plenty of compelling reasons to buy a hybrid car, and the team at Honda of Turnersville will be happy to fill you in on all you need to know. Make sure to browse our current new vehicle specials to see how much you can save on a new Honda hybrid. You should note that with the purchase of a new Honda you can take advantage of our Honda Service Pass, a complimentary maintenance program for your vehicle’s first 2 years or 24,000 miles, whichever comes first. We provide expert hybrid maintenance that will keep your vehicle always running safely at peak performance levels.