What is the operating principle of the Camry Hybrid?

[McRiley]

The Camry Hybrid operates on a series-parallel hybrid system, which is one of the various transmission systems in hybrid vehicles. In the series-parallel power coupling mechanism, the motor MG1 and the engine need to undergo speed coupling through a planetary gear set. After speed coupling, torque coupling is also required with motor MG1. Through speed synthesis, motor MG2 achieves speed regulation of the engine, allowing the engine speed to be independent of the vehicle speed, thereby realizing the ECVT function. The Camry is equipped with a 2.5L engine, with a maximum power output at 5,700 rpm. It adopts a front-engine, front-wheel-drive layout, with a MacPherson strut front suspension and an E-type multi-link rear suspension.

[DelAdalynn]

I've done in-depth research on Toyota's hybrid system. The Camry Hybrid relies on seamless collaboration between the engine and electric motors. At low speeds, it operates solely on electric power, running as quietly as an EV. During hard acceleration, the gasoline engine kicks in to provide instant, decisive power. What's most ingenious is how the system converts kinetic energy into electricity during braking and coasting, storing it in the battery without any waste. The engine always operates within its most efficient RPM range, avoiding fuel-guzzling zones. The 2.5L gasoline engine works in perfect harmony with two electric motors, eliminating the need for a conventional transmission by using a planetary gearset for power distribution - delivering both smoothness and reliability. In daily driving, it achieves just over 4L/100km fuel consumption without requiring external charging. This design truly pushes fuel efficiency to its limits.

[SanEvelyn]

After commuting with a hybrid Camry for a year and a half, I'm truly amazed by this system. Starting the car in the morning is completely silent, with the electric motor quietly getting the car moving. The auto stop at red lights is much smoother than traditional auto start-stop, with instant power upon restarting. When you press the accelerator harder, the engine kicks in immediately but very subtly. The best part is during evening traffic jams, gliding through traffic in pure electric mode while watching the fuel gauge stay perfectly still. Once on the highway with continuous braking, I clearly felt the battery recovering energy. In normal mode, fuel consumption stays around 4.3L, while sport mode offers quicker throttle response. The trunk battery pack hardly affects space, easily fitting two large suitcases.

[RyderFitz]

Once you've driven the hybrid version, you'll understand why it's so fuel-efficient. It starts on electric power without using the engine at idle, which is most noticeable in traffic jams - the gasoline engine completely rests. During acceleration, the two electric motors and the engine work in synergy, creating a 1+1+1>3 effect. Every time you release the accelerator, it automatically charges, brilliantly recovering wasted energy. The engine only operates in its most efficient range, avoiding fuel-wasting low-RPM zones. Even with a depleted battery, there's no panic as it charges automatically while driving. Unlike pure electric vehicles that require charging stations, or plug-in hybrids that need dedicated charging. When calculating at the gas station, it saves over 3 liters per 100 kilometers compared to the gasoline version, translating to about 2,000 yuan in annual fuel savings.