What does hybrid vehicle mean?
2 Answers
Hybrid vehicle refers to a vehicle whose propulsion system consists of two or more individual propulsion systems that can operate simultaneously. The driving power of the vehicle is provided by a single propulsion system alone or jointly according to the actual driving state of the vehicle. Hybrid is a new energy vehicle between pure electric vehicles and fuel vehicles, which has both the engine, transmission, drive system, oil circuit and fuel tank of traditional vehicles, as well as the battery, motor and control circuit of pure electric vehicles. Hybrid is a mixture of fuel and electric energy, which is divided into: 1. Series plug-in hybrid; 2. Parallel plug-in hybrid; 3. Hybrid plug-in hybrid or power split type.
My first hybrid car was a Toyota Prius, which I drove for several years. People often asked me about how it works. Simply put, a hybrid combines a traditional gasoline engine with an electric system—comprising an electric motor and battery—that work together. At low speeds, such as in traffic jams or driving around the neighborhood, it automatically switches to electric mode, making it quiet and fuel-efficient. When accelerating, the engine kicks in to provide extra power, ensuring smooth performance. This combination can reduce fuel consumption by more than half, significantly cutting my monthly fuel expenses. Regenerative braking also recovers energy during braking to recharge the battery, extending its lifespan. If you're interested in buying a used hybrid, be sure to check the battery condition—they're generally quite durable. These cars are especially cost-effective for city driving and produce fewer emissions, making them a great companion for daily commutes.
