How a Hybrid Car Works

A hybrid car uses more than one source of power. The most common two sources in today's hybrid cars are petrol and electric power. The body of the hybrid car is lighter than a conventional vehicle thus facilitating higher mileage. The tires are made of firm material and hold more air pressure to decrease drag. The batteries are charged by recovering brake energy (kinetic) and is recharged from the alternator. Unlike the batteries of a conventional car the battery of a hybrid car differs in the internal structure and the amount of energy stored. The replacement of nickel with copper has made the hybrid battery more powerful but the cost is rising do to the increased demand of raw materials. A new battery called a lithium ion is quickly becoming a viable alternative. They can produce more power with a shorter recharge rate.

Basic Hybrid Car

A lightweight lithium ion battery also provides more power and a longer running time than copper based batteries. This increases the efficiency and acceleration of the car. The biggest advantage to users will be when lithium batteries are mass produced to hold down the cost. Some hybrid cars are now being produced which have the option of plug-in batteries. The user will plug in the vehicle to a electrical outlet to charge. This technology is a major advancement, it requires robust batteries and a intelligent computer control system.

Toyota Hybrid Motor

Traditional lithium ion batteries have cobalt oxide cathode material, which makes it more vulnerable to catch fire or explode. This is known as the thermal runaway effect. To defeat this condition manufacturers have now replaced the cobalt metal with phosphate. This provides the same charging power and energy storage when compared to cobalt oxide battery. The controller area network (CAN) incorporates high-speed communication busses to facilitate communication between the microprocessors and the multi-layers of control systems. The multi-layer control system consists of electric motor controllers, battery management systems, transmission controller, engine controller, and electrical grid controller. The hybrid system is also more complex when integrated with a anti-lock brake system.

Scientists claim that the modern nickel metal hydride batteries, when compared to the traditional nickel cadmium and lead acid batteries cause less harm to the environment. Lead batteries are the most toxic followed by nickel and then lithium. Most manufacturers recycle many of the components of the battery. The parts are disassembled and divided into categories, plastic is shredded, metals and fluid extracted. The remainder of the contents is neutralized before it is sent into landfills.

Basic Maintenance

Batteries can developed connection problems do to corrosion. Inspect all connections and clean as needed, baking soda can be added to the terminals to help prevent further corrosion. Follow the normal maintenance schedule for your particular vehicle.

How Does it Work / Hybrid Car

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