Does the 48V Mild Hybrid Need Charging?
2 Answers
48V mild hybrid systems do not require separate battery charging, as the alternator or motor can charge the battery. The 48V mild hybrid system is not a plug-in hybrid. Plug-in hybrid vehicles, due to their larger battery packs, require the use of a charger to charge the battery pack. Conventional hybrid vehicles have smaller motor power and battery capacity. The motor primarily functions during startup or low-speed driving, often assisting the engine. Plug-in hybrid vehicles feature larger batteries and more powerful motors, resulting in better acceleration performance compared to conventional hybrids and the ability to drive longer distances in pure electric mode. The fundamental concept of the 48V mild hybrid system is to increase the standard vehicle voltage to 48V, enabling it to power higher-capacity onboard systems and achieve better integration with other vehicle systems. This concept originates from the most traditional HEV hybrid models, serving as a compromise between start-stop powertrains and high-voltage hybrid solutions.
I’ve been driving my 48V mild hybrid car at home for almost a year now, and the most hassle-free part is not having to worry about charging at all. This system is incredibly smart—it charges itself every time you brake to recover energy. During traffic jams, the start-stop system works frequently, and the generator continuously replenishes the battery. The only thing to note is that if the car sits unused for a long time, it’s better to start it occasionally, just like maintaining a regular battery. My garage doesn’t have a charging station, while my neighbors with plug-in hybrids fight over charging spots every day. Compared to that, the 48V mild hybrid is much more convenient, and it still cuts fuel consumption by 20% compared to a regular gasoline car.
