Hybrid Technology Overview
There are a number of different types of hybrids on the market today:
PARALLEL HYBRID
This technology uses an electric motor and an internal combustion engine (ICE) together. These are configured so they may work independently or together to propel the vehicle. Automatically controlled clutches generally connect the electric motor, internal combustion engine, and the gearbox.
MID PARALLEL HYBRID
These vehicles have electric motors that exist to give the ICE extra output, then generate power upon deceleration.
POWER SPLIT SERIES PARALLEL HYBRID
This technology uses two separate motors to power the vehicle: an ICE and an electric motor. The power generated from these motors can be combined via a power-splitter to drive the vehicle. These motors can work independently of one another or together, at any ratio, to propel the vehicle. The electric motor is also used as a generator to charge the batteries.
When holding speed on the road, the ICE is the primary power source. However, when maximum acceleration is required, the electric motors are used to boost the performance of the vehicle. When idling, the ICE is shut down and the car runs on the electric motor.
SERIES HYBRID
Look for this technology to be more and more common in the future. Series hybrids are also called “range extending hybrid vehicles.” The technology is similar to the other types in that there is an electric motor and an ICE. However, these vehicles are propelled by electric power alone.
The ICE drives an electric generator, which powers the electric motor which drives the car. The generator is also used to start the car. There is no transmission in these vehicles. They generally have very high power to weight ratios and more than ample torque over wide speed ranges.
These vehicles also use regenerative braking, which conv
PLUG-IN HYBRID
This technology uses two separate motors to power the vehicle: an ICE and an electric motor. The power generated from these motors can be combined via a power-splitter to drive the vehicle. These motors can work independently of one another or together, at any ratio, to propel the vehicle. The electric motor is also used a generator to charge the batteries.
FUEL CELL HYBRID
Fuel cell hybrid vehicles use four hydrogen fuel tanks, which store high-pressure compressed hydrogen that feed into a fuel stack to produce electricity using a chemical reaction between hydrogen and oxygen.
COMPONENTS
- HIGH VOLTAGE BATTERY BANK
- GENERATORS
- CAPACITORS
- HIGH VOLTAGE WIRING
- INTERNAL COMBUSTION ENGINE
- 12 VOLT LEAD ACID BATTERY