The hybrid cars Hybrids have become the choice for many drivers looking to reduce fuel consumption and be more environmentally friendly. But do you know what the main architectures (series hybrids vs. parallel hybrids) of this type of engine are? Do you know what type your car is or the one you are going to buy? Do you know the pros and cons of each type?
Well, that's what we're going to clarify here...
Types of hybrid cars
There are various types of hybrid cars, with characteristics that differentiate them from each other. Let's look at the main types and how they work:
Parallel hybrids
The most common type of hybrid car is the Parallel hybrid. In this system, both the combustion engine and the electric motor are connected to the transmission., which allows them to work at the same time to propel the vehicle. In this case, the battery that powers the electric motor is recharged through regenerative braking, which uses the car's kinetic energy.
Parallel hybrids are ideal for urban driving, where frequent stops allow the electric motor to work more, reducing fuel consumption, as well as being able to transmit more power in general.
Serial hybrids
In the series hybrids, the combustion engine does not directly power the car. Its function is to generate electricity to charge the battery of the electric motor, which is responsible for moving the wheels. This type of vehicle always runs on electric mode, using the thermal engine only to recharge the battery when necessary.
Series hybrids are ideal for those looking for a car that runs mostly in electric mode, such as for urban driving, and they also tend to have less power than parallel hybrids, since they do not combine the power of both engines.
Advantages and disadvantages of series vs parallel
As you can understand, each type of engine has its advantages and disadvantagesIn hybrid serial vs hybrid parallel architecture, we have:
- Parallel hybrid engine:
- Advantages: It has greater power by combining the internal combustion engine and the electric engine, also allowing greater acceleration and better performance, as well as greater versatility for all types of routes.
- Disadvantages: It is more expensive, heavier and more complex than other propulsion systems.
- Series hybrid engine:
- Advantages: the combustion engine is very small, only used to generate electricity, so consumption is very low and so are emissions. It is good for urban environments, where stops and starts are frequent.
- Disadvantages: They offer less power and less autonomy, so they are not for long trips.
It is true that, generally, most people who buy a hybrid will opt for a parallel hybrid, since they are the most similar to the performance of conventional engines, and they work well both in the city and on the highway for long distances. While the series hybrid is more aimed at those who travel short distances or use it mainly for urban use within cities where there is more traffic.
Subtypes of parallel hybrids
Within the types of parallel hybrids, there are different technical configurations that have been used by different brands. to optimize the energy efficiency of their vehicles. For example, we have the following highlights that are worth stopping to analyze what each of these variants is:
Piston engine and an electric motor interconnected by a planetary gear
In this system, the engine Combustion and the electric motor are coupled via a planetary gearBoth engines can work together or independently, depending on the needs of the vehicle at any given time. For example, they could operate with only the electric motor for urban use, or only with the gasoline engine if there is no load, as well as both combined to obtain more power. This system is very efficient in the city and has become popular in models such as the Toyota Prius and Honda Insight.
Piston engine and an electric motor, coupled with a planetary gear and a separate additional propulsion motor
This hybrid also uses a system of planetary gear to connect the combustion engine and the electric motor. However, it also includes an additional propulsion motor that provides more power and allows for superior performance under certain conditions, such as rapid acceleration. Examples of this type of engine are the Lexus RX400h (Toyota).
Piston engine and an electric motor connected via a drive shaft
This system uses a combustion engine and an electric motor on the same drive shaftThis allows for better integration between the two engines, which translates into greater energy efficiency and smoother driving, as well as greater power. An example of this is the Porsche system.
Piston engine and two electric motors connected via a drive shaft
Unlike other hybrid systems, this one uses two electric motors that work together with the combustion engine on the same drive shaft. This combination allows for greater flexibility and the ability to use electric power more efficiently. This is the case of the motorization that Daimler has adopted.
Geared motor of piston engine
The system, also called Two-Mode Hybrid, combines electric motors within the gearbox of the combustion engine, allowing for more flexible and efficient use of energy. This system is used by brands such as BMW, Daimler and GM, and is known for its versatility and ability to adapt to different driving styles.
Propulsion of one axle of the vehicle by an engine and the second axle by an electric motor
This system differs from the previous ones, since it uses the combustion engine to drive one axle of the car and the electric motor to drive the other axleThis system, used by brands such as Peugeot, allows for better weight distribution and more agile driving by having four-wheel drive.
Of course, each system has its advantages and disadvantages, and manufacturers have taken this into account when equipping their vehicles with these systems, depending on the target market they are aimed at…
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