How Do Hybrid Cars Work?

In recent years, hybrid vehicle technology has made multiple leaps, making hybrid cars a more viable and affordable choice for Raleigh drivers. If you’re interested in adapting to these environmentally friendly vehicles, you might be asking, “What is a hybrid car and how does it work?”

If you’re new to hybrid models, Anchor Auto Outlet is here to help. In the following guide, we’ll explore how hybrid cars work and the various models available on the market. For more information, call us at 919-651-0051 or reach out online!

Parallel Hybrid vs. Series Hybrid Vehicles

For those wondering, “How do hybrid cars work?” it depends on the kind of drivetrain you have. Hybrid vehicles have two power sources: a traditional internal combustion engine, and an electric battery. In hybrid systems, these two work together to maximize fuel consumption around Cary and beyond. Here’s how hybrid cars work in their two most commonly available configurations.

Parallel Hybrid

Most hybrid cars around the Durham are parallel hybrids. In such models, the electric motor and the gasoline engine are connected to your transmission, whether it uses an automatic, manual, or CVT system. These models work by blending both power sources. 

Series Hybrid

By contrast, Series hybrids use an electric motor paired with a gas engine, yet only the electric motor is paired with the transmission. Within these vehicles, an electric motor is the sole power source and the gasoline engine acts as a generator for the electric motor.

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

Answering, “What is a hybrid car and how does it work?” can seem a little complicated, however, this topic changes when comparing hybrids to EVs. While hybrid cars run on a combination of a gasoline engine and an electric battery, EVs will use electric power only. At the same time, plug-in hybrids only add more complexity to the question, “How hybrid cars work?” So, let’s compare hybrid vs. plug-in hybrids: 

• Due to their increased battery packs, plug-in hybrids can go further on electric power alone.
• For shorter distances around Raleigh, you can utilize a plug-in hybrid like an EV – Relying on 100% electric power during the day and recharging at night.
• If you’re heading out only on a longer trip that exceeds your electric driving range, you can fill up on gasoline as you would with a conventional powertrain.
• Since these vehicles don’t rely solely on electricity, plug-in hybrid vehicles take one to four hours to charge.

Discover Hybrid Power with Anchor Auto Outlet 

Now that you have a better answer to the question: What is a hybrid car and how does it work?—it’s time to test-drive one! Come to Anchor Auto Outlet to experience one of our pre-owned hybrid models—these recent-model-year options provide a reliable fuel-efficient vehicle for your needs. 

You can start the process by applying for financing in our secure online portal. If you want to see how far your budget stretches, use our online calculator to estimate your monthly payment. Experience one of our fuel-efficient hybrids near Cary at Anchor Auto Outlet!