What is the difference between hybrid and dual engine?

[Stacy]

Difference between hybrid and dual engine: 1. Different scope: Hybrid generally refers to oil-electric hybrid; Dual engine refers to the installation of two power engines, namely fuel engine and electric motor. 2. Different power: The electric power system used in hybrid vehicles includes high-efficiency and enhanced electric motors, generators and batteries; Dual engine belongs to the complete hybrid technology, using the power source of engine and electric motor. The dual engine system can intelligently combine the engine and motor according to different driving conditions such as starting, driving, accelerating, decelerating, and parking, giving full play to their respective advantages, so that the vehicle can achieve the working condition of low-speed driving by motor and medium-high speed driving by both. Dual engine models do not need to be charged by external power supply during daily use, and the vehicle can charge and discharge by itself while driving.

[McLandon]

The difference between hybrid and Dual Engine is quite interesting. Hybrid is a general term for hybrid power, encompassing various technical approaches such as plug-in hybrids and range-extender hybrids, with the core idea being fuel efficiency through the combined operation of a gasoline engine and an electric motor. Dual Engine specifically refers to Toyota's hybrid system, which uses a planetary gear structure, allowing the engine and motor to work in particularly close coordination, achieving high efficiency and fuel savings without external charging. For example, hybrid systems from other brands might rely on plug-in charging to extend pure electric range, but Dual Engine achieves this by automatically recovering energy during driving to charge the battery. These two systems also differ in driving experience; Toyota's Dual Engine is exceptionally quiet at low speeds, and the engine engagement at medium to high speeds is smoother. However, many domestic brands' hybrid technologies, like BYD's DM-i, are advancing rapidly, with fuel efficiency catching up. The key is to choose based on personal needs and budget.

[EmersynRose]

I think hybrid is like a general term for smartphones, while Dual Engine is like Apple's iOS system, representing a specific brand's technology. Broadly speaking, hybrid refers to all oil-electric hybrid vehicles, including those that can be externally charged and those that cannot. Dual Engine is exclusive to Toyota, and its biggest feature is full hybrid technology—it doesn't require plugging in to charge, as it automatically recharges through energy recovery, resulting in exceptionally low fuel consumption, around 4L or so in urban areas. Most hybrid systems from other brands require charging stations to achieve maximum efficiency, though Honda's i-MMD system has lower charging demands. In practical use, Dual Engine owners save the hassle of finding charging stations, and maintenance is simpler. However, many domestic hybrid vehicles, such as Geely's Thor Hybrid, have seen their technology mature significantly, narrowing the gap with Dual Engine and offering more diverse choices.

[OEverly]

From a usage perspective, the difference between hybrid and Dual Hybrid is quite distinct. Dual Hybrid is Toyota's signature technology, where the engine and motor work seamlessly together through a planetary gear set without the need for charging—just fill up the tank and drive, making it especially suitable for users without charging access. Other hybrids, like BYD's DM-i, require regular charging to achieve their low fuel consumption advantage; otherwise, they function like conventional gasoline cars. Hybrid encompasses a broader range, including both plug-in and non-plug-in types. In terms of driving, Dual Hybrid primarily uses electric power below 40 mph, offering quiet and smooth operation, while the engine engagement at high speeds is also seamless. Nowadays, there are more hybrid options available, such as Li Auto's range-extender hybrid, which uses fuel to generate electricity for pure electric driving—a different logic from Dual Hybrid, resulting in varied experiences. If you prioritize hassle-free operation, Dual Hybrid is a great choice, but if you want longer pure electric range, a plug-in hybrid would be the better option.