What is Hybrid Technology
Save for a couple of awfully rare exceptions, electric vehicles still represent the way of the future. But right now, for reasons like
environmental protection and resource conservation, the hybrid technology (be it parallel or serial) stands as the short-term solution
for the auto industry.
Hybrid vehicles as we know them were originally introduced and marketed in Japan back in 1997. Today, consumers can purchase a hybrid
compact, midsize sedan or SUV in just about any market on the planet.
Two energy sources, two different designs
When a vehicle is reported to exploit hybrid technology, it means that two energy sources are being used to power and drive the vehicle.
In most cases, an electric motor provides low-speed mobility while a combustion engine (gasoline or diesel) takes over or assists the
former when the power demand is greater, like on highways or slopes. This is called a parallel hybrid system.
Starting next year, though, it will be possible to buy a vehicle which relies on a series (or serial) hybrid system. Similar to the
parallel design, the series hybrid combines two energy sources. However, the vehicle runs solely on electricity, with a range of 65
to 100 kilometers. So what's the purpose of the combustion engine? Quite simply, it powers the generator that feeds the batteries,
allowing the car to extend its range to 1,000 kilometers. That's why series hybrids are often called "range extenders".
Hybrid CarsGreen Cars Consumer'S Opinions
Hybrids News & Events
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Hybrid VideosAuto123.com LIVE!
[Michel D] Driving the 555-hp, 2010 #BMW X5 M this week and clocked a 0-100 km/h time of 4.6 seconds. That's impressive. 17.2 L/100 km isn't.
[Justin P] I like big twin turbo sedans :>
[Justin P] White last gen #Acura TSXs look great with bronze wheels
[Luc G] Volvo sale close? Guess so. Geely's president, Li Shufu, met with Volvo unions leaders to reassure both Swedes and Belgian workers.
[Luc G] The 4th generation Nissan Micra (that will come to North America) will be unveiled at the Geneva Motor show next March.
[Justin P] today = driving from Rosseau to Oakville in the Transit Connect to swap for a Taurus SHO :)
[Matt S] Gearing up for the next 2 weeks: Auto123 Awards Thursday then off to the L.A. Auto show. Thanksgiving ain't no holiday for us Canucks
Ready to buy a Hybrid?Auto123 puts tools at your disposal to help shop around.
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