How Do Hybrid Cars Work?

With new hybrid and electric technology coming out every year, there are so many eco-friendly options to choose from. But how do hybrid cars work? We put together this guide to give you all the details you need to know! Invest in an affordable, quality vehicle from Rick Hendrick Chevrolet Norfolk that allows you to reduce your carbon footprint without sacrificing your daily routine in Virginia Beach.

If you’re ready to make the switch, use our value your trade calculator to make the upgrade seamless. Then, apply for financing to start the purchase process. No matter what hybrid model you choose, you’re sure to get a vehicle that you’ll enjoy for many miles to come as you make your way around the Suffolk roads. Contact us to get started today!

Parallel Hybrid vs. Series Hybrid Vehicles

hybrids are a great choice for improving fuel economy. Just what is a hybrid car and how does it work under the hood? A hybrid vehicle actually has two power sources: a traditional internal combustion engine, and an electric battery. In hybrid systems, the two work in concert to minimize fuel consumption. Here’s how hybrid cars work in their two most common configurations, parallel and series:

Parallel Hybrid

Most hybrids on the market today are parallel hybrids. In these vehicles, both the electric motor and the gasoline engine are connected to the transmission, whether it’s an automatic, manual, or CVT system. They work by blending both power sources together.

Series Hybrid

Series hybrids also use an electric motor paired with a gasoline engine, but only the electric motor is paired with the transmission. In these vehicles, the electric motor is the sole source of power and the gasoline engine acts as a generator for the electric motor.

How Do Hybrid Cars Work Compared to Plug-In Electric Vehicles?

We went over how hybrid cars work above, but keep in mind that hybrids and plug-in electric vehicles are two distinct categories. So, how do hybrids and EVs differ? While hybrid vehicles run on the combined power of a gasoline engine and electric battery, EVs use electric power only. However, newer vehicles are beginning to blur the lines between the two. Some brands now offer plug-in hybrids, which combine the benefits of both:

• With their increased battery packs, plug-in hybrids can go further on electric power alone. 
• For short distances around Chesapeake, you can use a plug-in hybrid much like you’d drive an EV — relying on 100% electric power all day and recharging at night.
• If you’ll be heading out on a longer trip that exceeds the electric driving range, you can fill up on gasoline like you would with a conventional powertrain.
• Because they don’t rely solely on electricity, hybrid plug-in vehicles take between 1 and 4 hours to fully charge.

Discover Hybrid Power with Rick Hendrick Chevrolet Norfolk 

Now that you know more about how hybrid cars work, it’s time to secure one of your own from our Norfolk dealer. There are many options to choose from so start your search with our new vehicle inventory and new vehicle specials for savings on this next purchase. We look forward to seeing you at Rick Hendrick Chevrolet Norfolk soon!