In this article, we take a look at the different kinds of hybrid cars, how they work, and everything else you need to know.
Hybrid cars can be split into four groups. These are mild hybrids, plug-in hybrids, full hybrids, and range-extended electric vehicles (REEVs).
These differ mainly in terms of function, with each working differently from one another.
Hybrids offer greater flexibility for motorists who are not ready to make the switch to electric vehicles. Although they are not zero emissions vehicles, you can still enjoy lower road tax and improved fuel economy.
A halfway alternative between petrol or diesel and electric cars, hybrids are great for those who are not yet ready to make the switch.
Though with different types of hybrids available, how do you know which one is right for you? Read on for the ultimate guide to different types of hybrids.
What is a hybrid car?
Before going into the different types of hybrids available, it may be useful to understand what is meant by a hybrid car.
Hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs) are a form of electric vehicle that uses two power sources to function. The first is a petrol or diesel engine, and the second is an electric motor.
The combustion engine is what produces energy, which is sent to the electric motor to drive the wheels.
Some hybrids use technology known as regenerative braking to help preserve energy. This is where energy normally lost when braking is captured and redistributed to the battery.
These hybrids are known as ‘self-charging’ hybrids as they do not require plugging in at a power source.
What are the different types of hybrid cars?
When it comes to hybrid cars, there are a few main types. These include:
1. Full hybrids (FHEVs)
2. Mild hybrids (MHEVs)
3. Plug-in hybrids (PHEVs)
4. Range-extended electric vehicles (REEVs)
Full hybrid cars
Full Hybrid Electric Vehicles (FHEVs) are considered among the most versatile of hybrids. This is because they can run on the combustion engine alone, using solely electric power, or both combined.
These are the hybrids often referred to as self-charging since they use regenerative braking to help charge the battery as you drive. This makes them incredibly convenient for drivers who would prefer to avoid having to frequently recharge.
The all-electric mode in these hybrids is normally used when traveling at lower speeds of around 30mph. For longer journeys on the motorway, the combustion engine will take the lead.
Full hybrid vehicles are great for those looking to hold onto a more normal driving routine. Plus, you still get to enjoy some of the benefits of having an EV without having to make the switch:
Reduced road tax with fewer CO2 emissions
Increased fuel economy with less weight on the engine
Less impact on the environment compared to a petrol or diesel car
Mild hybrid cars
Mild Hybrid Electric Vehicles (MHEVs) are different from full hybrids in the sense that the two power sources always work together. The electric motor will work alongside the combustion engine and vice versa – never independently.
MHEVs therefore are not able to run on power purely from the electric motor or engine. Power is instead drawn from regenerative braking to reuse energy.
Many mild hybrids feature stop/start technology making them great for driving in built-up cities with lots of traffic. Similar to their full hybrid cousins, they also offer a better miles per gallon (mpg) rate than their petrol or diesel alternatives.
Plug-in hybrid cars
Aptly named, Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs) are those that require plugging in to recharge the battery.
They feature a larger battery than other hybrids giving them an increased all-electric range. Using this, they can offer different driving modes.
A great thing about PHEVs is that you can use these different driving modes to maximise efficiency during each drive.
For instance, you can switch to all-electric mode when driving around towns and cities to avoid paying Low Emission Zone (LEZ) charges.
They may need charging more often, though charging a plug-in hybrid is fairly easy.
Range-extended electric vehicles (REEVs)
A more recent type of hybrid, range-extended electric vehicles feature an electric battery and a range extender. This is normally a small, petrol engine which provides back-up power when the battery depletes.
These hybrids are electrically driven since the range extender never directly powers the wheels. Its sole purpose is to recharge the battery.
REEVs are still relatively new and very few of these are available in the market. The weight of a range extender can drain the battery, showing more work is needed before they can perform as efficiently as electric cars.