DRIVEN by consumer demand for both fuel efficiency and performance, automakers have risen to the challenge by developing a variety of hybrid vehicles. These innovative vehicles, combining traditional gasoline engines with electric power, offer a greener and more economical alternative to conventional cars. But the evolution of hybrid technology hasn’t stopped there; different types of hybrids have emerged to cater to diverse driving needs and preferences. In this article, we’ll explore the fascinating world of hybrid vehicles, shedding light on the distinct technologies that power them and how they cater to varying customer requirements.
There are three primary types of hybrid vehicles:
Full Hybrids: These vehicles can run on either their electric motor or gasoline engine, or a combination of both. They have larger battery packs that can be recharged through regenerative braking (using the energy from braking to charge the battery) and the engine itself. They can also sometimes run solely on electric power for short distances or at low speeds. Examples include the Toyota Prius, Honda CR-V Hybrid, and Hyundai Ioniq Hybrid.
Mild Hybrids: These vehicles have smaller electric motors and battery packs that primarily assist the gasoline engine. They cannot run solely on electric power. The electric motor can provide extra torque during acceleration, help with engine start/stop functionality, and power some electrical systems. Examples include the Suzuki Ertiga Hybrid and Geely Azkarra.
A Series Hybrid is a type of hybrid vehicle where the gasoline engine does not directly power the wheels. Instead, the engine acts solely as a generator, producing electricity to charge the battery or power the electric motor, which is the only source of propulsion for the vehicle. This configuration is simpler than a parallel hybrid and offers the advantage of smoother acceleration and a quieter ride, similar to a fully electric vehicle. However, it may be less efficient at higher speeds compared to other hybrid types. Some examples of series hybrids include the BMW i3 with Range Extender and the Nissan Kicks e-Power. Also known as range-extended hybrids.
Plug-in Hybrids (PHEV): These vehicles are similar to full hybrids, but they have larger battery packs that can be plugged into an external power source to recharge. This allows them to run solely on electric power for longer distances than full hybrids, typically around 20-50 miles, before the gasoline engine kicks in. Examples include the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV and Chery Tiggo 8 Pro PHEV. Note in the automotive parlance, only the PHEV has a proper acronym to it.
Series-Parallel Hybrid is a type of hybrid vehicle that combines the advantages of both series and parallel hybrid systems, offering improved fuel efficiency, enhanced performance, and reduced emissions. In series mode, the gasoline engine acts as a generator to power the electric motor, which drives the wheels. In parallel mode, both the gasoline engine and electric motor can drive the wheels directly, either independently or simultaneously. A power split device allows the system to seamlessly switch between these modes, optimizing performance and efficiency based on driving conditions. This flexibility makes series-parallel hybrids a popular choice for environmentally conscious drivers seeking a balance of performance and fuel economy. Most hybrids now available in the Philippines are SPH.
A short list of Hybrid Cars in the Philippines:
– Chery Tiggo 8 Pro (Plug-In Hybrid): 1.5-liter hybrid drivetrain, powerful and efficient 7 seater crossover.
– Geely Azkarra (Mild Hybrid): 1.5-liter turbocharged gasoline engine with mild-hybrid system, 190 hp combined output, premium and efficient compact crossover.
– Geely Okavango (Mild Hybrid): Affordable 7-seater MPV with a mild-hybrid system, good fuel efficiency and space.
– GWM Haval H6 HEV (Series-Parallel Hybrid): 1.5-liter gasoline engine with powerful electric motor, 240 hp combined output, quick and smooth.
– GWM Haval Jolion HEV (Series-Parallel Hybrid): 1.5-liter gasoline engine with electric motor, 186 hp combined output, good all-arounder.
– Honda CR-V e:HEV (Series-Parallel Hybrid): 2.0-liter gasoline engine with Honda’s e:HEV system, efficient and refined.
– Hyundai Santa Fe (Series-Parallel Hybrid): 1.6-liter turbocharged gasoline engine with an electric motor, 226 hp combined output, premium features and technology.
– Mazda CX-60 (Mild Hybrid): Available with 3.3-liter gasoline or diesel engine, both with mild-hybrid system, powerful and efficient.
– Mazda CX-90 (Mild Hybrid): 3.3-liter inline-six gasoline engine with mild-hybrid system, 280 hp combined output, luxurious and spacious.
– Mazda3 (Mild Hybrid): 2.0-liter gasoline engine with mild-hybrid system in top-of-the line trim.
– Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid): 2.4-liter gasoline engine with electric motors, all-wheel drive, advanced safety features.
– Nissan Kicks (Series Hybrid): Electric motor powered by a 1.2-liter gasoline engine, unique hybrid technology, instant torque and good range.
– Suzuki Ertiga Hybrid (Mild Hybrid): 1.5-liter gasoline engine with mild-hybrid system, affordable and fuel-efficient MPV.
– Toyota Alphard (Series-Parallel Hybrid): 2.5-liter hybrid system, 250 hp combined output, luxurious and fuelefficient minivan.
– Toyota Camry (Series-Parallel Hybrid): 2.5-liter gasoline engine with electric motor, 175 hp combined output, comfortable and eco-friendly.
– Toyota Corolla Altis (Series- Parallel Hybrid): 1.8-liter gasoline engine with electric motor, 121 hp combined output, impressive fuel economy.
– Toyota Corolla Cross (Series-Parallel Hybrid): 1.8-liter gasoline engine with electric motor, 120 hp combined output, strong fuel economy.
– Toyota RAV4 (Series-Parallel Hybrid): 2.5-liter gasoline engine with electric motor, 215 hp combined output, capable off-road and fuelefficient.
– Toyota Yaris Cross HEV (Series-Parallel Hybrid): 1.5-liter gasoline engine with electric motor, 109 hp combined output, good value for money.
– Toyota Zenix (Series-Parallel Hybrid): 2.0-liter gasoline engine with electric motor, 154 hp combined output, spacious and efficient MPV.
