How Do Hybrid Cars Work?

Toyota hybrid technology is often seen as one of the best in the industry so it’s no surprise that you’ll regularly see options like the new Toyota Camry Hybrid and other popular Toyota hybrid models driving around on the Austin streets. With that being said, if you’re interested in a Toyota hybrid, feel free to visit our dealership to find your very own fuel-efficient ride.

But, before you take one home with you, are you wondering, “What is a hybrid car, and how does it work?” our experts have you covered. Learn all about hybrid vehicles today with Toyota of Cedar Park and discover the different types of hybrid vehicles available! We look forward to helping you answer the question, “How do hybrid cars work?”

What Is a Hybrid Car & How Does It Work? – The 3 Types of Hybrid Vehicles

So, what is a hybrid car and how does it work? There are three main types of hybrid vehicles but the gist of it is that they use both an internal combustion engine (ICE) and an electric motor powered by batteries to help you save fuel on the Leander roads. Hybrid vehicles bridge the gap between regular vehicles and fully electric models.

If you’re not quite ready to make the switch to an EV for your Georgetown commute, a hybrid vehicle provides exceptional efficiency without making any major changes to what you’re used to as far as fueling goes. Find a more in-depth answer to, “How do hybrid cars work?” below where we go over the details of the different types of hybrid vehicles:

How Hybrid Cars Work: Parallel Hybrid

When most people think of hybrid vehicles, they’re likely thinking of parallel hybrids. Parallel hybrid vehicles utilize the electric motor to assist the gas engine as you’re driving around Cedar Park. Both the ICE and the electric motors and batteries work together in a parallel hybrid.

How Hybrid Cars Work: Series Hybrid

Series hybrid vehicles also use an ICE and electric motor with batteries. However, in series hybrids, the electric motor is the main component providing power to the wheels and the ICE typically acts as a generator for the electric motor and batteries. When you press the gas pedal in a series hybrid, the power is coming from the electric motor and batteries.

How Hybrid Cars Work: Plug-In Hybrid

Plug-in hybrid vehicles can sometimes act as both a parallel hybrid and a series hybrid. Plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) have a larger battery capacity so they have the ability to drive on pure electric power for short distances. As a result, you’ll end up saving on fuel because the gas engine doesn’t have to work as hard to make sure you can get to your destination.

PHEVs can be fueled up at regular gas stations when you’re low on gas. However, the larger battery capacity also means you can plug your PHEV into a charger to charge up the battery packs. Think of PHEVs as vehicles that bridge the gap between standard hybrid vehicles and fully electric vehicles.

Find a Fuel-Efficient Hybrid at Toyota of Cedar Park!

If you’re ready to add a hybrid to your drives, head to Toyota of Cedar Park today and we can help you find a fuel-efficient hybrid vehicle to help you save at the pump. If you have any questions about the different types of hybrid models, feel free to get in touch with our experts for more information!