HYBRIDCAR

Structures of Hybrid Vehicles

By:  Lestari

Hydrogen Gasoline Internal Combustion Engine

Although environmental issues are recognized, they are not given that much attention on a wider scale. Now, more and more people are becoming aware of how much mankind has affected the planet. The need for solutions is recognized more than ever to address environmental issues.

The shift from conventional cars is not just because of environmental concerns but also due to soaring gas prices. Hybrid vehicles bridge the gap between using an SUV and caring for the environment. There have been lots of improvements in the hybrid technology as the millennium came and it will be just a matter of time before it dominates the fuel dependent dominated automobile industry.

The hybrid vehicle drive train

Hybrids come in different types depending on their structures. Although they may differ in some aspects all of them are made with the same purpose. These vehicles are designed to reduce fuel consumption, reduce pollution and noise emissions and provide an alternative for customers.

They come in three structures. The parallel hybrid system has a diesel engine and an electric motor that is connected to a mechanical transmission. A large electrical generator and a motor are combined to replace the starter motor and the alternator.

A series hybrid system has a similar design with a electric battery vehicle. It is also referred to as the Range Extended Electric Vehicle. The difference is the diesel engine drives the electric generator instead of the vehicle’s wheels. The electric generator in turn charges the battery and powers the electric motor which propels the vehicle. A super capacitor or a flywheel can be added to recapture braking energy which reduces the losses in the battery.

The combined hybrid system, as it names suggests is a combination of the parallel and the series system. It is incorporated with power split devices so that the power paths placed from the engine to the wheels can be either electrical or mechanical. This is done to decouple the power supplied by the diesel engine from the power needed by the driver.

If a consumer wishes to convert his or her vehicle aftermarket kits are available. The owner has the option of buying a glider and a hybrid or an electric motor from the automaker. He or she will then receive the vehicle installed with the hybrid drive train structure.

Hybrid Engines

By:  Lestari

Kia Rio Hybrid Engine

Hybrid vehicles were a concept of the past. Fortunately through the advancement of technology these vehicles are now available in the market. These vehicles were originally designed to help the environment. Nowadays due to rising gas prices, consumers are buying them instead of the conventional cars. The demand has prompted companies to design quality cars that also takes style and looks into consideration.

Hybrid vehicles are now available in compact sedans but also SUVs. The Ford Company has redesigned their Ford Escape to be able to please the environment conscious customer who also wants a stylish car. Hybrid technology is continually being developed so that it will be more accessible and affordable to the public.

What makes a hybrid work?

Hybrid vehicles work by using two different power sources. Although it runs on an electric motor for fuel efficiency and less emissions, it also has a diesel engine that works when needed for high speeds. It also serves as a back-up when the electric power has been used up.

The first hybrid vehicle that was sold commercially was the Toyota Prius. It was then followed by the Honda Insight. A breakthrough came when Ford released the Ford Escape. SUV’s have been known to guzzle gas with high greenhouse emissions. This time the Ford Company was able to figure out a way to redesign their famous SUV to be able to cater a stylish, environment friendly and fuel efficient vehicle.

There are different types of hybrid vehicles by the engine that makes the work. Although they may differ in structure they all work by the same purpose, reduce emissions and fuel consumption.

Hybrid electric petroleum vehicles work by having two power sources. An internal combustion engine (usually a diesel engine) and a rechargeable energy storage system are used by the vehicle. The vehicle is run by electric power most of the time and recaptures energy when braking. The diesel engine helps when more power is needed for acceleration.

Battery electric vehicles rely on battery packs which can be recharged, motor rollers and an electric motor. Unfortunately this type of vehicle is limited to battery capacity. It also tends to be more expensive.

Hybrid vehicles also operate in dual mode. Other vehicles use different types of fuel and power source. Trolleybuses can switch between a diesel engine and an electrical power. Flexible fuel vehicles use a mixture of biofuels and petroleum.