How Hybrid Cars Work

If you’re in the market for a new vehicle but you’re looking to make a more environmentally-friendly choice without changing your lifestyle too much, then a hybrid vehicle may be the right choice for you! There is a wide range of options to choose from, including mild hybrid and hybrid-electric vehicles, both of which allow you to reduce your carbon footprint in Henrico.

But what is a hybrid car and how does it work? We have all the information you need to know below. Review our guide and then browse our new vehicle inventory to find the hybrid model that piques your interest. Be sure to contact us when you’re ready to schedule a test drive at our Richmond dealer!

How Do Hybrid Cars Work: Parallel Hybrid vs. Series Hybrid Vehicles

No matter which model you choose, hybrids are a great choice for improving fuel economy. Just what is a hybrid car, and how does it work under the hood? A hybrid vehicle actually has two power sources: a traditional internal combustion engine, and an electric battery. In hybrid systems, the two work in concert to minimize fuel consumption. Here’s how hybrid cars work in their two most common configurations, parallel and series:

Parallel Hybrid

Most hybrids on the market today are parallel hybrids. In these vehicles, both the electric motor and the gasoline engine are connected to the transmission, whether it’s an automatic, manual, or CVT system. They work by blending both power sources together.

Series Hybrid

Series hybrids also use an electric motor paired with a gasoline engine, but only the electric motor is paired with the transmission. In these vehicles, the electric motor is the sole source of power and the gasoline engine acts as a generator for the electric motor.

How Do Hybrid Cars Work Compared to Plug-In Electric Vehicles?

We went over how hybrid cars work above, but keep in mind that hybrids and plug-in electric vehicles are two distinct categories. So, how do hybrids and EVs differ? While hybrid vehicles run on the combined power of a gasoline engine and electric battery, EVs use electric power only. However, newer vehicles are beginning to blur the lines between the two. Some brands now offer plug-in hybrids, which combine the benefits of both:

• With their increased battery packs, plug-in hybrids can go further on electric power alone. 
• For short distances around Glen Allen, you can use a plug-in hybrid much like you’d drive an EV — relying on 100% electric power all day and recharging at night.
• If you’ll be heading out on a longer trip that exceeds the electric driving range, you can fill up on gasoline like you would with a conventional powertrain.
• Because they don’t rely solely on electricity, hybrid plug-in vehicles take between 1 and 4 hours to fully charge.

Discover Hybrid Power with Rick Hendrick Chevrolet Buick GMC Richmond 

Now that you know the answer to, “What is a hybrid car and how does it work?”, it’s time for you to take the next step in your new car journey in Goochland. Start the purchase process by filling out our financing application online, or visit our finance center team to learn about your lease and finance options in person. Feel free to also continue your research with our manufacturer information so you can make your choice with confidence.