What is a Hybrid Car and How Does it Work?

Hybrid cars continue to surge in popularity with locals in Raleigh and Cary, and many drivers want to get in on the action. So, what is a hybrid car and how does it work? Hybrid vehicles combine both a gas-powered engine and an electrical motor to boost power and efficiency. However, different hybrid models have different advantages and disadvantages. Find out how parallel, series and plug-in hybrid cars work with Hendrick Chevrolet Southpoint – and try out some examples at Hendrick Chevrolet Southpoint!

Parallel Hybrid vs. Series Hybrid Vehicles

How do hybrid cars work? That depends on the car. In basic terms, hybrids use both gas and electricity to propel the vehicle forward. However, different hybrid designs produce different results. Let’s examine two popular types of hybrid design below.

• Parallel Hybrid: How do hybrid cars work in a parallel design? Parallel hybrids pair both the electric motor and gas engine with the transmission. This means that both gas and electrical power are used simultaneously as you navigate Chapel Hill.

• Series Hybrid: How do hybrid cars work in a series design? In a series hybrid, only the electric motor is paired with the transmission. This means that the power from the electric motor is prioritized, and the gasoline engine merely acts as an onboard generator. 

How Do Hybrid Cars Work Compared to Plug-In Electric Vehicles?

We’ve gone over how hybrid cars work in both parallel and series configurations, but what about the popular plug-in hybrid (PHEV)? Plug-in hybrids act as the midpoint between traditional hybrids and electric cars. They have a bigger battery pack than a standard hybrid model, which offers some unique benefits:

• Hybrids and PHEVs both utilize gas and electricity. If your battery runs out as you’re driving around, the gasoline engine will take over to get you home safely.
• Electric cars and PHEVs are both capable of driving on pure electricity alone. No gas, no emissions, no problem.
• PHEVs can be filled up at a gas station but also must be plugged in to recharge the battery. But since the battery is smaller than your average electric car, charging times are modest – usually between 1 and 4 hours for a full charge.

Learn How Hybrid Cars Work with Hendrick Chevrolet Southpoint 

So, what is a hybrid car and how does it work? Now you have a better understanding of this complicated question! But if you want to learn more about how hybrid cars work, just ask! Our team at Hendrick Chevrolet Southpoint would love to give you all the information that you need, and we can also set you up with a few options to test drive. Just contact us or stop by Durham!