The International AutoSource Blog

Concept Cars: Hybrid Hype

Being "green" or "environmentally friendly" creates a lot of hype around Hybrid Vehicles (HEVs). In fact, all major car manufacturers are adjusting to the craze and are offering sedan hybrid models, as well as SUV and truck hybrids. Designed to increase fuel economy, increase power and cut down on emissions, the Hybrid is currently a popular vehicle for those looking to save money and remain environmentally conscious. So how does a Hybrid operate to conserve energy and ultimately save you money?

The answer is innovative technology that helps store maximum energy within the vehicle. This is done through the Hybrid's engine design and make-up. HEVs combine the best of the gas engine and the electric motor, making them far more practical than their Electric Vehicle counterparts that rely solely on a charged battery. By using an electric motor and a gas engine in tandem, the electric motor generates energy which means the gas engine doesn't have to work as hard or use as much gas. That allows manufacturers to use smaller gas engines, thus creating HEVs that are more fuel efficient, more powerful (than Electric Vehicles), and less polluting.

Gasoline-electric hybrid cars contain the following parts that all contribute to energy conservation within the vehicle:

• Gasoline engine - The hybrid car has a gasoline engine much like the one you will find on most cars. However, the engine on a hybrid is smaller and uses advanced technologies to reduce emissions and increase efficiency.
• Fuel tank - The fuel tank in a hybrid is the energy storage device for the gasoline engine. Gasoline has a much higher energy density than batteries do.
• Electric motor - Advanced electronics allow the engine to act as a motor as well as a generator. For example, when it needs to, it can draw energy from the batteries to accelerate the car. But acting as a generator, it can slow the car down and return energy to the batteries.
• Generator - The generator is similar to an electric motor, but it acts only to produce electrical power. It is used mostly on series hybrids.
• Batteries - The batteries in a hybrid car are the energy storage device for the electric motor. Unlike the gasoline in the fuel tank, which can only power the gasoline engine, the electric motor on a hybrid car can put energy into the batteries as well as draw energy from them.
• Transmission - The transmission on a hybrid car performs the same basic function as the transmission on a conventional car.

Another way Hybrids store energy it through a technology known as the "Regenerative Braking System." This works when you hit the brakes; the electric motor applies resistance to slow you down, which is transformed into kinetic energy. While you're slowing down, this energy from the movement of the wheels turns the motor which then takes on the function of a generator, converting the energy normally not used during braking into electricity. Then, the electricity is stored in the battery until the electric motor needs it. This means less work for the gas engine, less gas to be used and more money in your pocket!

The Hybrid hype is one that is both economical and ecological, becoming a larger segment in the current vehicle market. With energy and gas conservation being two concepts that Hybrids thrive off of, the horizon of modern drivability is broadened. Available in many makes and models, Hybrids are sure to revolutionize the vehicle industry in the near future.  

At International AutoSource, we are proud to offer a variety of these innovative vehicles including the 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid and the 2010 Ford Escape Hybrid.