A mild hybrid SUV is a type of vehicle that combines the power of a traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) with an electric motor and battery. This combination of technologies provides both improved fuel economy and increased power output.
Volvo’s XC40 SUV perfectly embodies this technology, since it is electric like XC40 Recharge, or a full hybrid. That car’s small 48 volt battery gets some juice when the driver applies the brakes (at stoplights, for example).
How mild hybrids work?
The electric motor is used to assist the ICE, allowing it to work more efficiently, resulting in better fuel economy. Additionally, the electric motor provides extra power when needed, allowing the vehicle to accelerate quicker, while at the same time providing additional torque.
Mild hybrid SUVs typically feature regenerative braking, which captures energy from the brakes that is then used to charge the batteries and power the electric motor. Mild hybrid SUVs are becoming increasingly popular, as they offer a more efficient, yet still powerful, driving experience.
How do “regular” hybrids car work?
A full hybrid car is a vehicle that uses both an internal combustion engine and an electric motor to power its drivetrain. The electric motor is powered by a battery pack and is used to assist the internal combustion engine when more torque or power is needed.
The internal combustion engine is usually a gasoline-powered engine, but can also be powered by diesel or ethanol. Hybrid cars are designed to be more fuel efficient than traditional gasoline-powered cars, and the electric motor helps to reduce emissions.
Hybrid cars work by utilizing both the electric motor and the internal combustion engine to power the car. When the car is in motion, the electric motor is used to assist the internal combustion engine and provide additional torque.
The battery is recharged when the car is in motion, and when the car is stopped the battery is recharged by the internal combustion engine. Hybrid cars are becoming increasingly popular due to their fuel efficiency and reduced emissions, making them a great choice for environmentally conscious drivers.
Main image courtesy: Volvo
