Hybrid Cars Technology

Hybrid cars are familiar to most people in the U.S., but the technology that powers them may not be common knowledge.

HYBRID CARS

Hybrids run on a mixture of gas and electricity, and are similar to traditional cars. The difference, besides an increase of up to 50% in efficiency, is that the hybrid has an electric motor and a battery that can be recharged. The car's computer determines when to use gas or electricity.

The hybrid car operates on gas at higher speeds, but is battery-powered at other times. Gas is converted into energy, and remains in the battery until it is needed.

Hybrids also make use of regenerative braking, in which the heat released when hitting the brakes is captured and stored for later use.  Check out the Toyota Prius Hybrid for more information on a good reliable hybrid.

PLUG-IN HYBRID CARS

Plug-in hybrids, so named because they can be charged by plugging in to household electricity, are similar to standard hybrid cars. However, they have larger batteries and smaller gas tanks.  For the coolest plug-in hybrid check out the Fisker. Just an amazing car (would love to have one of these).

Although the batteries weigh as much as 1 to 2 people, their heaviness is offset by the smaller tank and the increased fuel efficiency. Plug-in hybrids can achieve as much as a 50% increase in gas mileage over other hybrid cars, and can go about 40 miles on electric power before using any fuel.

Fortunately for hybrid car owners who want even better fuel efficiency, hybrids can be converted to plug-in hybrids. Some companies also offer conversion kits.

BATTERY TYPES

Nickel metal hydride: First used in aerospace technology, the nickel metal hydride (NiMH) battery powers a good number of hybrid cars on the road today. However, difficulties with memory effect, which causes diminished charging capability over time, coupled with its high cost, caused researchers to seek out alternatives for use in hybrid cars.

Lithium ion: This type of battery emerged as an alternative to the nickel metal hydride battery commonly used in hybrids. Also known as Li-ion, it is smaller and weighs less than its predecessor. The Li-ion also charges more efficiently and without experiencing lessening voltage over time.

Lithium ion polymer: The Li-ion polymer was the next logical step in rechargeable battery technology. Instead of holding the electricity conductor in a single solvent, this type of battery uses a composite to contain the electrolyte. The result is a safer, more durable battery. Li-ion polymer batteries are expensive, but as they are used in more cars, the cost will come down.