How Do Hybrid Cars Work?

2022 Honda CR-V Hybrid

If you’ve been curious about the latest in eco-friendly engineering, there’s never been a better time to try out a hybrid. From standard hybrids to plug-in options, there’s truly a hybrid for any driver around Sharon or Hubbard. What exactly is a hybrid car and how does it work? The team at Shenango Honda is here to show you, and we’d love to introduce you to our hybrid lineup in Hermitage.

Parallel Hybrid vs. Series Hybrid Vehicles

Let’s start off with how hybrid cars work. All hybrids contain a internal combustion engine and an electric motor. The engine runs on gas, while the electric motor is powered by the hybrid battery. This allows the vehicle to utilize two power sources, maximizing your benefits on the Grove City roads. But, different hybrid models utilize these power sources differently. Let’s take a look at the two most common configurations, parallel and series:

  • Parallel Hybrid: The majority of hybrids on the Hermitage roads are parallel hybrids. These vehicles connect both the combustion engine and electric motor to the transmission. This blends both power sources together as you drive.
  • Series Hybrid: A series hybrid also uses electricity and gasoline power, but the design is slightly different. Only the electric motor is paired to the transmission, which means that that electric motor is the primary source of power. The engine is merely a generator for the motor.

How Do Hybrid Cars Work Compared to Plug-In Hybrids?

Now you know how hybrid cars work, but what about plug-in models? Plug-in hybrids also run on both gas and electricity, but they have more in common with EVs than most hybrids on the market. Here are some of the differences:

  • Plug-in hybrids have a significantly larger battery pack than a typical hybrid, which means they can store a greater amount of electricity.
  • Unlike traditional hybrids, plug-in hybrids have an all-electric range. That means that for shorter trips, you can drive without any gas at all.
  • If you need to take a longer trip, your plug-in can switch from electric to gas for uninterrupted power that really goes the distance.
  • While plug-in batteries must be charged, the charging time is much less than your standard EV. Most models only take around 1 to 4 hours for a full charge.

Discover Hybrid Power with Shenango Honda 

Now you know how hybrid cars work, so why not try out models like the 2023 Honda Accord Hybrid or the 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid at Shenango Honda? We’d be happy to help you find the right hybrid, plug-in, or electric vehicle to suit your wants and needs, so just stop by Hermitage! We can get the keys in your hand in person, or you can contact us with any questions in the meantime.

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3965 E. State St., Hermitage, PA, 16148
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