Hybrid Electric Vehicles - HEV

What is a hybrid electric vehicle?

Hybrid electric vehicles (HEV) use both an internal combustion engine (ICE) and an electric motor to power them offering good performance whilst lowering emissions.

They are currently some of the most popular type of hybrids available thanks to their straightforward approach and range of benefits.

Similar to mild hybrid vehicles (MHEV), drivers don't need to plug in HEVs to recharge their batteries which is the case with plug-in hybrids (PHEV) and Battery Electric Vehicles / All Electric Vehicles (BEV). Instead, HEVs are recharge themselves thanks to systems that include recovering energy from the braking process.

Hybrid vehicles are able to travel on all-electric power for short distances, and when the charge is depleted, the ICE will automatically kick in to keep powering the vehicle.

If you're looking for a straightforward experience and a range of eco benefits, then a HEV may be of interest.

Toyota Yaris Hybrid

How does a hybrid electric vehicle work?

Hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs) function by combining the power of an electric motor and an internal combustion engine (ICE) to propel the car. This operational process resembles that of a mild hybrid vehicle (MHEV), but with the added feature that the car can rely solely on the electric motor for short distances if desired.

This attribute is especially advantageous for driving within urban areas or at lower speeds, enabling you to conserve fuel for more demanding situations. As the road conditions change and your speed increases, the internal combustion engine will engage to provide additional power, ensuring a seamless continuation of your journey.

During regular usage, the electric motor and the engine collaborate to enhance the car's performance and decrease emissions. Additionally, there's no need to plug in an HEV for recharging, as the system autonomously replenishes the battery while you drive, capturing and storing energy that is typically dissipated during braking.

Benefits of buying a hybrid electric vehicle

Self-Charging

Hybrids don't need to be plugged-in to recharge, allowing you to hit the road whenever you want.

Improved Economy

fuel economy is greatly improved as power is generated through both an ICE and an electric motor.

Reduced Emissions

By using a combination of ICE and electric motor, Hybrids use less traditional fuel than standard ICE vehicles.

Enhanced Driving Experience

More often than not Hybrids are automatic and with no-range anxiety they make for an easy driving experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do you have to plug it in?

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In the case of full hybrids (HEV) there is no need to plug them in to recharge the battery. Self-charging hybrids feature regenerative braking, so when you brake or coast, a generator produces electricity to be stored in the battery for later.

If you’re still asking yourself do hybrids have to be charged, remember that with a self-charging hybrid there are no cables due to self-charging battery technology. However, plug-in hybrids (PHEV) can be plugged-in to charge the battery and run for an extended range using electricity alone.

What's the difference between a full hybrid and a plug-in hybrid?

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The main difference is that full hybrids don't need to be plugged in to charge the battery that powers the electric motor.

Full hybrids recharge themselves automatically as you drive by capturing energy through braking, for a a plug-in hybrid you'll need to plug into a power supply to recharge the batteries.

Full hybrids have a smaller battery than plug-in hybrids, which means their all-electric range is often much shorter. Thanks to their larger battery, plug-in hybrids can travel in excess of 50 miles on electric power alone.

Are hybrid cars cheaper to run?

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Hybrids can save you money by using less fuel through the use of the electric motor. For example, figures from Toyota Hybrid Experience show that up to half of urban journeys were on electric power alone.

Not only can you save fuel, Hybrids are also more affordable to service than you may think. With parts like brake pads wearing less, as well as convenient service plans, service costs are no more expensive than a conventional car.