How Does the Accord Hybrid Work?
2 Answers
The Accord hybrid system consists of an Atkinson cycle engine, an electric-coupled continuously variable transmission, a generator, a drive motor, an intelligent power unit (IPU), a power control unit (PCU), and a power control device. The working principle is as follows: The engine is connected to the engine output shaft via a clutch, with the generator connected through gears before the clutch. The motor is directly connected to the motor output shaft, and a third shaft between the engine output shaft and the motor output shaft transmits power to the wheels. The Accord hybrid system has three driving modes: 1. Pure electric mode: When the high-voltage lithium battery has sufficient charge, the car uses pure electric drive mode during startup, initial forward movement, or reverse movement. In this mode, the drive motor is the sole power source, and the engine and generator stop rotating. 2. Pure engine drive: During high-speed cruising or high-speed conditions, the engine provides power, and the motor does not participate in the operation. 3. Hybrid drive: After the car starts, the engine drives the generator to rotate, which generates electricity and supplies power to the drive motor. If the electricity from the generator is insufficient, the battery will provide supplementary power. If the generator produces sufficient electricity, the excess power charges the battery, ensuring continuous power supply to the drive motor to propel the vehicle.
I've been driving the Honda Accord Hybrid for several years and always found its hybrid system quite intelligent. In terms of working principle, it uses a battery-powered electric motor to drive the car during startup and low-speed operation, making it exceptionally quiet with almost no noise. As speed increases, the gasoline engine kicks in to generate electricity or directly propel the wheels, achieving both fuel efficiency and high performance. The system automatically switches modes based on speed and demand—for example, using only electric power in city traffic jams while engaging the engine on highways—which significantly reduced my refueling frequency. The battery also charges through regenerative braking, recovering energy during deceleration to extend battery life. Overall, it combines the advantages of electric and gasoline power, reduces emissions, is environmentally friendly, provides smooth driving without jerking, makes long trips less tiring, proves highly practical for daily commutes, and saves a considerable amount on fuel costs.
