Think of hybrid powertrains as transitional technology, combining old and new means of propulsion. Gas-electric hybrids like the Toyota Prius and Honda Civic Hybrid are the most common today, but diesel, natural gas and fuel cell hybrids are not far off. No longer resigned to the fringe, hybrids have hit the mainstream marketplace.
Hybrid Vehicle Technology
Toyota Prius
The term “hybrid” has been applied most often to vehicles that run on a combination of gasoline and electricity, but hybrid simply indicates two (or more) individual means of power. Many OEM manufacturers are delivering hybrid-electric vehicles (HEVs) currently, although the extent of the electrical supplementation varies.
Regarding HEVs, there are three distinct types: full hybrids, assist hybrids and mild hybrids. Full hybrids are capable of running completely on the engine, solely on the battery or a combination of both. Assist hybrids cannot run fully on electricity, instead using the integrated motor for power supplementation. Mild hybrids run via internal combustion engines but include oversized motors that replace the conventional alternator and starter.
Honda Civic Hybrid
The world of hybrid technology is ripe for development, and advanced technology such as lithium ion batteries and hydrogen fuel cells have revolutionary potential. For now, the application of hybrid systems provides the best means of bringing today’s passenger vehicle fleet up to modern environmental standards.
Quick Tip
Avoid drive-thru lanes at fast food restaurants and instead park your vehicle and pickup your order inside.