What are hybrid cars and how do they work?

Hybrid cars, also known as hybrid-electric vehicles (HEVs), differ from other vehicles in that they use more than one means of propulsion: a petrol or diesel engine along with an electric motor.

In recent years, hybrid cars have become increasingly popular – mainly due to their environmentally friendly benefits and fuel efficiency. The combination of technologies in electric vehicles means that they consume less fuel, subsequently emitting less CO2 than a car with a conventional petrol or diesel engine.

At Motorfinity, we have exclusive offers on new hybrids and EVs for key workers, including NHS staff, police officers, the armed forces, teachers, carers and more.

How do hybrid cars work?

The core technology behind a hybrid car is the combination of an internal combustion engine (ICE) and an electric motor. The ICE is used to propel the car, while the electric motor provides an additional source of power and helps to improve fuel efficiency. The electric motor is powered by a battery, which is recharged through regenerative braking and ICE.

When the car is at a stop or moving slowly, it can operate solely on electric power with no emissions. This is known as “electric-only mode”. When reaching higher speeds, the ICE kicks in to provide the additional power it requires. This is known as “hybrid mode”, which allows the car to achieve better fuel efficiency than a traditional petrol-only car.

What are the different types of hybrid cars?

There are three main types of hybrid cars: mild hybrids, full hybrids, and plug-in hybrids.

Mild hybrid electric vehicles (MHEVs) have a small electric motor and battery that assist the internal combustion engine. The engine does most of the work, but the electric motor can kick in during cruising, coasting, or braking. It provides the initial energy to get you going, then the engine and motor work simultaneously to help you accelerate. Although an MHEV is a bit more fuel efficient than an all-petrol vehicle, it isn’t as economical as the full hybrid electric vehicle.

Full hybrids possess the same electrical components as mild hybrids, but with larger and stronger electric motors and batteries. This means they take more of the work from the ICE and can operate on electric power alone for a short distance. Similarly, to mild hybrids, full hybrids cannot be charged from an external power source. Instead, they recharge from the engine and the power from the regenerative braking system.

Plug-in hybrid vehicles have larger batteries that can be charged via an electric outlet. Typically, they run on electric power until the battery is nearly depleted, then the car automatically switches over to use the ICE to finish the journey. They can operate on electric power alone for longer distances than other hybrid models, ultimately making them the most fuel-efficient hybrid option with the greatest electric-only range.

Advantages of hybrid cars

The most obvious benefit of hybrid cars is their improved fuel efficiency. Because the electric motor provides additional power and support, the internal combustion engine doesn’t need to work as hard, which subsequently reduces fuel consumption.

As previously mentioned, hybrid cars produce fewer emissions than traditionally fuelled cars, which is ultimately better for the environment and the country’s efforts to meet emission targets.

Another advantage of hybrid vehicles is that they can operate on electric power alone at low speeds. This means that they can achieve zero emissions whilst driving in city traffic and car parks, which is particularly beneficial in areas with strict emissions regulations. Hybrid car owners may receive additional benefits, including a lower first year of road tax, cheaper company car tax and possibly avoiding congestion charges.

Hybrid cars are generally more reliable than conventionally engined cars. The electric motor and battery are simpler and less prone to failure than traditional mechanical parts, meaning hybrid cars typically require less maintenance and have a longer lifespan.

Disadvantages of hybrid cars

Hybrid cars tend to be more expensive than traditionally fuelled cars for several reasons. Hybrid cars feature advanced technology such as electric motors, batteries and power electronics. The battery is one of the most important and costly components of a hybrid car, significantly adding to the overall cost of the vehicle. Additionally, developing hybrid vehicles requires thorough technical research and specialised manufacturing processes and equipment, which can also contribute to the overall cost.

Although the prices of hybrid vehicles may seem daunting, Motorfinity offers exclusive car discounts to essential workers. If you’re a key worker, you can enjoy deals on brand new hybrid and electric vehicles from various manufacturers at unbeatable prices. Browse our selection of new discounted hybrid and electric cars.

Want to learn more about our offers and hybrid vehicles for sale? Get in touch with the team at Motorfinity today.

How Our Focus Can Shift Gears When Driving

Concentration whilst driving is one of the most important factors to stay safe on the roads and it’s vital that we do all we can to minimise interference. With 26% of individuals stating their mind frequently wanders when driving, Motorfinity took a look at what the biggest distractions are and how a drifting mind could mean the end of the road for some.

Mobile phones

With smartphones being used to communicate, as a sat nav and to control music, they are one of the biggest distractions a driver can face.

Recently, the highway code made changes stating that if a driver is using a phone, even when the car is in standstill traffic, they can face penalties including six points on their license and a £200 fine. However, 49% of UK drivers say they are still guilty of using their phones while in control of a vehicle.

The weather

Although it is something we cannot control, rising temperatures lead to a lack of concentration when on the road. A new highway code revision could see a driver fined £1,000 for not keeping a car cool and well ventilated when it is hot outside as warmth can lead to drowsiness and ultimately a road accident.

Eating and drinking

We may not think that a quick snack or meal on the go would affect our concentration too much, however research has found that those who eat and drink at the wheel are twice as likely to be involved in a collision. Rather than being purely a mental distraction, it’s physical too as at least one hand is off the wheel.

Music

Similar to using a phone, adjusting the radio controls or choosing music to listen to can be a major distraction when driving, with the type of music a driver is listening to potentially impacting their focus and capability.

We recently worked with a music psychologist to curate a Spotify playlist in which each song reflects the optimum beats per minute required to help increase focus while driving and decrease stress.

At Motorfinity, we offer discounts on new vehicles to those working in the Police, emergency services, NHS, armed forces, defence and teaching who are all faced with intense pressures and long shifts, putting them at more of a risk to get distracted when driving.

Becoming aware of the small distractions or habits that can be picked up when driving can minimise the risk of accidents and make the road a safer place.