Until the turn of the century, a car was driven by an internal combustion engine, fueled by either gas or diesel. Those were the only two options available, but now we have ICE cars, various hybrids, battery-powered electric vehicles, and fuel cell electric vehicles.
The automotive industry has come a long way in the past few decades, and among the most exciting advancements are hybrid and electric vehicles. There are multiple types of each, and they all have different benefits and challenges. So, if you've ever wondered if hybrid and electric cars are the same, this guide will clear up any confusion and maybe even help you decide what your next car should be.
The Hybrid Powertrain
After the standard internal combustion engine (ICE) came the hybrids, in two distinct flavors. The first one to hit the scene was the hybrid, also called an HEV - Hybrid Electric Vehicle. Though it still relies largely on gasoline power, it pairs the engine with an electric motor and a small battery pack. This supplements the engine to improve performance and efficiency, resulting in better fuel economy.
The hybrid motor is usually housed within the gearbox assembly, and the battery pack isn't large enough for the car to drive on electric power for more than a mile or two. Instead, how hybrid engines work is that the electric motor serves as an assistant to the ICE, which means it doesn't have to work as hard. Instead of just one standard power output, you get a combined power output. That's the total power produced by the ICE and electric motor working together. The Toyota Prius is the most famous example of a standard hybrid car, though the list of the best hybrid cars has since expanded.
Read more - The Difference Between Hybrid And Electric Car Engines
Author: MORGAN CARTER
