How Do Hybrid Cars work?

Parallel Hybrid vs. Series Hybrid Vehicles

What are parallel hybrids? How about series hybrids? How do they differ? You’re about to learn all of the above! First, though, let’s explore how hybrid cars work. Hybrids have two main power sources. In the case of traditional hybrid-electric vehicles, there’s an internal combustion (gasoline) engine, and an electric battery and motor. These elements work together alongside other technologies like regenerative braking to provide frugal and fuel-efficient performance on Henderson and North Las Vegas city roads and highways alike.

Parallel Hybrid

The majority of hybrid electric vehicles are parallel hybrids. Parallel hybrids have both the gas motor and the electric motor connected to the transmission. What’s more, these power sources work in tandem to deliver power to the vehicle’s wheels.

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 Hybrid Cars vs. Plug-In Hybrid Cars Work

Series hybrids and parallel hybrids are two types of more traditional hybrid-electric vehicles which encompass vehicles like the Hyundai IONIQ. But there’s also another type of hybrid: the plug-in hybrid. What is a plug-in hybrid, exactly? It combines elements of electric vehicles and hybrids for the best of both worlds! Here’s how:

• With their increased battery packs, plug-in hybrids can travel on only electric power for a small distance (generally around 25-50 miles), making small errands easier & greener.
• Plug-in hybrids normally don’t self-charge, meaning they require a charging source.
• If you’ll be heading out on a longer trip that exceeds the electric driving range, you can fill up on gasoline like you would with a conventional powertrain.
• Because they don’t rely solely on electricity only hybrid plug-in vehicles generally only take between 1 and 4 hours to fully charge. In the time you park, have lunch, and shop somewhere, your car could be fully charged.

Discover Hybrid Power with Hyundai of Las Vegas

Now you know what a hybrid car is and how it works, along with different types of hybrids. Ready to find your next hybrid for sale near Paradise? Interested in the 2022 Hyundai IONIQ 5 price? Hyundai of Las Vegas has you covered! Take a look, then feel free to apply for financing online.