Hybrid technology |
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 How do hybrids work?
Gasoline/electric hybrids take different forms but the basic set up involves combining a gasoline engine with an electric motor, which together or separately, power the vehicle. Electricity produced from the engine and generator is stored in a battery. The stored electricity combines with kinetic energy produced by the brakes to power the motor. Low emissions and high efficiency
Gas/electric hybrid vehicle (HEV) emissions vary depending on the vehicle. In general, HEV’s have lower emissions than conventional vehicles, because the electric motor offsets how often the engine is used. HEV’S have the potential to operate in “electric-only” mode, which means they can operate producing no emissions. Visit the government's website to find the most fuel-efficient vehicles.
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Hybrid facts
- Because gas/electric hybrid vehicles generate their own electricity, they never need to be plugged in. However, some manufacturers are planning to add this functionality in the future.
- Many gas/electric vehicles produce less than 1/2 the carbon dioxide emissions of conventional combustion engines.
- In many gas/electric hybrid vehicles, an idle-stop feature shuts off the engine whenever the vehicle is not moving or when the power from the gasoline engine is not required, thereby reducing vehicle idling time and conserving energy.
- Compared to conventional vehicles, fuel consumption for gasoline/electric hybrids is nearly twice as good, averaging between 4.1 litres/100 kilometres in the city, to 5.7 litres/100 kilometres on the highway.
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Dispelling hybrid myths
- Gas/electric hybrids never need to be plugged in. They use power from the engine and energy that is otherwise wasted when the car brakes to recharge the battery.
- You cannot drain the battery, because the system is programmed to recharge automatically whenever the battery runs low.
- In the event of a collision, power cables carrying electric current are automatically shut down.
- The high voltage batteries are contained in an extremely strong protective case located in an area of the vehicle very unlikely to be penetrated in a collision.
- Newer gas/electric hybrid models are larger and provide more space for passengers and cargo.
- Gas/electric hybrid vehicles require similar maintenance as conventional vehicles and the cost is comparable.
| Visit our Environment Policies and Initiatives for more information on AMA's Prius or contact us.
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