How Do Hybrid Cars Work?

What is a hybrid car and how does it work? Hybrids are more popular than ever in Murrysville, so chances are, you’re not the only one asking that question! In the following guide, Spitzer Toyota digs into how hybrid cars work to help our customers understand if a hybrid car is right for them. Generally speaking, hybrid vehicles are excellent for those who want an alternative to the traditional gas-powered vehicle but aren’t ready to go all-in on a fully electric model. 

Parallel Hybrid vs. Series Hybrid Vehicles

The two most common types of hybrid vehicles are parallel hybrids and series hybrids. Both have great fuel efficiency and provide enjoyable rides throughout Irwin. But how are they powered? A hybrid car is powered by an electric motor and a traditional combustion engine. They work together to maximize mileage and reduce fuel expenses. We’ll explain more about the difference between parallel hybrid and series hybrid vehicles below to show how hybrid cars work.

Parallel Hybrid

The majority of hybrid cars on the road are parallel hybrids. In these hybrids, both the electric motor and gas engine are connected to the transmission and work synchronously to power the vehicle.

Series Hybrid

Only the electric motor is paired to the transmission in series hybrid vehicles. It’s the main power source and the gas engine, connected to the motor, serves as a backup generator.

How Hybrid Cars Work Compared to Electric Vehicles

Are you wondering, “What is a hybrid car and how does it work compared to all-electric vehicles?” They’re not the same as hybrid cars. Hybrid vehicles use both an electric motor and a gas engine. All-electric cars, on the other hand, rely solely on electric power. 

Some brands also have plug-in hybrids, which offer a combination of benefits between hybrid and all-electric vehicles:

• Plug-in hybrids have increased battery packs that allow these vehicles to go further on just electric power.
• You can use your plug-in hybrid like an EV when doing shorter drives in North Huntingdon, using only electric power for a specified range. Utilize electric power during the day for local errands, and recharge overnight!
• You can still fill up on gasoline for longer trips in a plug-in hybrid like you would with a gas-powered vehicle.
• Plug-in hybrids have a larger battery capacity than a standard hybrid, but less battery capacity than an EV. Generally speaking, it should take about one to four hours to charge a plug-in hybrid’s battery from 0% to 100%.

Find an Electrified Vehicle at Spitzer Toyota Today!

We’ve answered the question, “What is a hybrid car and how does it work?” but it can be a complicated topic. So if you still have questions, we’ll gladly answer them! Contact us or stop by our dealership, where our team will help you choose between a hybrid like the Prius, a plug-in hybrid like the RAV4 Prime, or an all-electric vehicle like the bZ4X!