Hybrid cars are becoming more and more popular, as more drivers make the switch from gas-powered models to eco-friendly options. But some of these motorists still have questions about how best to charge their hybrid car battery.
Hybrid vehicles come in three varieties: traditional, plug-in, and fully electric. Knowing the distinctions between them can help you select the right hybrid for your driving habits and preferences.
Plug-in hybrids
Hybrid cars can be charged in several ways, such as plugging into an outlet or charging station. The amount of time it takes for your hybrid car to fully recharge depends on its type and how far you plan to drive each day.
A plug-in hybrid car is equipped with two propulsion modes: an electric motor and gasoline engine. This allows drivers to travel as much or as little on electric power as needed, while cutting down on fuel consumption and emissions at the same time.
Plug-in hybrid battery charging can be done through a standard 120v household outlet. However, some drivers prefer having their batteries charged through an upgraded socket that’s more resistant to damage; this option is known as a secure socket or Wallbox.
Some homeowners install a dedicated charger at home to expedite the charging process. Devices such as Green’upTM or Wallbox can deliver up to 1.5 times more intensity than standard sockets, enabling your car to be fully recharged within just a few hours.
Many major auto manufacturers are working on plug-in hybrid vehicles that will be available soon. General Motors plans to release the Chevy Volt in late 2010, while Toyota has stated they plan on releasing a plug-in version of their Prius hybrid model.
These vehicles may be an ideal option for commuters who don’t want to invest in a traditional gasoline-powered automobile. Furthermore, they help drivers reduce their carbon footprint by minimizing tailpipe emissions.
Depending on the model of hybrid car you own, you may be able to cover up to 50 miles on battery power alone. This is a significant advantage over traditional gasoline-powered cars which only have an allotted range before needing to plug it in for fuel.
Similar to all electric vehicles, your plug-in hybrid must be charged periodically in order to stay at full capacity. You can do this either using a regular household outlet or taking your vehicle to a public charging station.
Series hybrids
Hybrid car batteries are recharged through regenerative braking, which uses the energy produced when you press the brake pedal to power both electric motor and battery.
Standard hybrids utilize both an internal combustion engine and electric motor to offer more efficient fuel usage. This combination allows them to achieve 20 to 35 percent greater efficiency than their traditional counterparts while being significantly less polluting.
Hybrid batteries typically consist of two electrodes submerged in an electrolyte solution. According to HybridGeek, these electrodes are separated by a polymer film which prevents short-circuiting.
HybridGeek explains that each cell in a battery packs creates an enormous amount of electrical charge by using an electric field to transfer electrons between electrodes, creating immense power for your car’s engine. But it’s essential to understand how it works in order to get the most out of your hybrid vehicle’s capabilities.
When it comes to charging a hybrid battery, there are various options. Depending on your vehicle and driving habits, you can use either a portable hybrid charger, home fast charging station, or public charging stations for topping off the battery.
With a plug-in hybrid model, you can also utilize your vehicle’s on-board charger. This can be especially convenient if you’re unable to leave your driveway to recharge at home.
Hybrid vehicles are more cost-effective than their gas-powered counterparts, plus they may qualify for state and federal tax credits. Speak with your local dealership to discover how a plug-in hybrid model could benefit you in the future.
No matter if your vehicle is a standard hybrid, plug-in hybrid, or fully electric, learning how to charge your battery can be simplified with Butler Lexus of South Atlanta’s helpful service team. Our knowledgeable experts are happy to answer any queries you might have; so be sure to reach out for more details today!
Parallel hybrids
Hybrid cars can be recharged in several ways. Regenerative braking typically recharges the battery while the car is stopped, while self-charging occurs while running on gasoline – known as “self-charging.”
Three types of hybrids exist: fully or parallel hybrids, series hybrids and plug-in hybrids. Each has its unique advantages for vehicle owners that make them stand out.
A fully or parallel hybrid vehicle utilizes both electric motor and combustion engine power, providing a green and cost-effective alternative to traditional vehicles, especially for those living in areas without access to electricity.
Power from an electric motor is transferred to wheels through a drivetrain designed for greater efficiency than just using conventional gasoline engine alone. A hybrid’s drivetrain has significant effects on vehicle efficiency, fuel consumption, and purchase price.
Most hybrids employ a series drivetrain, in which the electric motor and internal combustion engine work separately. A series hybrid also relies on batteries for mechanical power but it’s more energy-efficient than parallel hybrids.
Parallel hybrids differ from series hybrids in that they utilize their electric motor as a generator to recharge its battery pack when demand for electricity is low. This reduces energy storage requirements in batteries without sacrificing any efficiency benefits on the road.
Another option is a parallel hybrid that attaches both motors directly to the wheel, such as in a diesel-electric locomotive or Ferdinand Porsche’s System Mixte hybrid car. This setup can also be found in some modern e-4WD vehicles like the Mazda Demio sold in Japan.
These vehicles feature a smaller electric motor and battery than full hybrids, but they offer greater range and can be driven solely on electricity for short periods of time. They may be referred to as gas-optional or grid-chargeable hybrids due to their ability to recharge using electricity from the power grid when needed.
These vehicles represent a milestone in the advancement of hybrid technology and could significantly reduce oil usage across America and beyond. Unfortunately, they remain more expensive than regular gasoline cars and require frequent upkeep to remain running optimally.
Electric vehicles
Charging a hybrid car can be done in several ways. One option is with an EV charger, while another relies on the car’s regenerative braking feature.
There’s also a third way to recharge an electric vehicle: public charging stations. This is the most common option for recharging an EV, and they are plentiful across America. These include malls, other shopping centers, universities, hotels and casinos, public transit stations as well as recreation areas run by the National Park Service.
If you want to take advantage of a public EV charging station, the first step is figuring out its location. To do this, use an app like PlugShare which allows users to locate public charging stations and filter results based on cost, location, or other relevant details.
An electric vehicle charger typically works at a rate determined by the number of kilowatt-hours left in your battery pack. This rate varies depending on the type, size and whether you’re charging overnight or while traveling.
Level 1: This is the slowest EV charging method and ideal for drivers who travel fewer miles each day and charge their cars overnight. On average, this will add around 3.5-6.5 miles of driving range per hour of charging time.
However, if you plan to be driving your electric vehicle frequently and want to ensure its battery is always charged up, investing in a home charging system might be worthwhile. A home EV charger connects directly to a 240-volt outlet in your garage and provides faster recharging times.
Although EV chargers can be pricey, they are much more cost-effective than gas-powered vehicles and will save you money in the long run. Furthermore, recharging an electric vehicle is more eco-friendly than filling up with traditional gasoline-powered car.
Are you thinking about upgrading to an electric or hybrid vehicle? At Honda of Kirkland, our team will guide you through the various options for recharging your new electric car. We can assist in finding the ideal model that fits into your lifestyle and provide all necessary information so that you make an informed decision.