Understanding Parallel Hybrids
Most people think a hybrid is a hybrid is a hybrid when it comes to cars. This isn't true at all. There are different variations on the market. In this article, we take a look at parallel hybrid vehicles.
The parallel hybrid is the classic hybrid most people picture when the subject is brought up. The vehicle runs on a both an internal combustion engine and an electrical power plant. They are computer controlled and turned on when optimum. Both motors are attached to the drive train, and can work at the same time if need such as when going up steep hills. For this reason, they are given the "parallel" designation.
The most popular hybrid ever built is a parallel hybrid. I am, of course, talking about the Toyota Prius. Many people mistakenly believe the Prius was the first hybrid on the market. It was not. Honda put the first hybrid out, but failed to market it aggressively for some bizarre reason that the board must now seriously regret. Regardless, the Prius is the dominant hybrid even though it no longer qualifies for a big tax credit like many hybrids.
So, what is it like to drive a parallel hybrid? It depends on the car, but it often can seem very strange at first. The classic uncomfortable moment comes when you are at a light and chatting with someone. The car usually goes into electric motor mode. The electric motor makes no noise at all. The car feels for all the world like it has stalled. Suddenly, you aren't sure if the car is on and the light is about to change! Then you press on the gas and the car starts moving forward. After a few miles, you get used to the sensation and driving becomes second hand.
The parallel system actually charges the batteries of the vehicle in two unique ways. One is simply the generation of power by the internal combustion engine, which pumps electrical charges into the batteries. The second is via a regenerative braking system. When you step on the brakes, the kinetic energy is captured and converted to a storable form of energy that is transferred to the battery system. Between the two, the batteries more than stayed charged!
Parallel hybrids have become the dominant form of alternative fuel vehicle on the road, but technology is forever moving forward. Expect to see advancements on this design as that happens.
The parallel hybrid is the classic hybrid most people picture when the subject is brought up. The vehicle runs on a both an internal combustion engine and an electrical power plant. They are computer controlled and turned on when optimum. Both motors are attached to the drive train, and can work at the same time if need such as when going up steep hills. For this reason, they are given the "parallel" designation.
The most popular hybrid ever built is a parallel hybrid. I am, of course, talking about the Toyota Prius. Many people mistakenly believe the Prius was the first hybrid on the market. It was not. Honda put the first hybrid out, but failed to market it aggressively for some bizarre reason that the board must now seriously regret. Regardless, the Prius is the dominant hybrid even though it no longer qualifies for a big tax credit like many hybrids.
So, what is it like to drive a parallel hybrid? It depends on the car, but it often can seem very strange at first. The classic uncomfortable moment comes when you are at a light and chatting with someone. The car usually goes into electric motor mode. The electric motor makes no noise at all. The car feels for all the world like it has stalled. Suddenly, you aren't sure if the car is on and the light is about to change! Then you press on the gas and the car starts moving forward. After a few miles, you get used to the sensation and driving becomes second hand.
The parallel system actually charges the batteries of the vehicle in two unique ways. One is simply the generation of power by the internal combustion engine, which pumps electrical charges into the batteries. The second is via a regenerative braking system. When you step on the brakes, the kinetic energy is captured and converted to a storable form of energy that is transferred to the battery system. Between the two, the batteries more than stayed charged!
Parallel hybrids have become the dominant form of alternative fuel vehicle on the road, but technology is forever moving forward. Expect to see advancements on this design as that happens.
Source...