How Do Hybrid Cars Work?

Hybrid vehicle technology has progressed further in the past few years, making hybrid models affordable for many Winchester, VA buyers. At CMA's Chevrolet of Martinsburg, we carry a wide range of hybrids that can rival traditional gas-powered vehicles in terms of capabilities and performance. In the following overview, CMA's Chevrolet of Martinsburg explores how hybrid cars work and the different available models. Learn more below and start the process by getting pre-approved with our team!

Parallel Hybrid vs. Series Hybrid Vehicles

No matter what’s best for your lifestyle, hybrids are great when improving your fuel economy. But how do hybrid cars work and what’s under the hood? A hybrid vehicle 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, the electric motor and the gasoline engine are connected to the transmission, whether you have an automatic, manual, or CVT system. They work by blending both power sources.

Series Hybrid

Series hybrids also use an electric motor alongside 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’ve explored how hybrid cars work, but remember 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 Hagerstown, MD, you can use a plug-in hybrid like 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.

Experience Hybrid Vehicle Power with CMA's Chevrolet of Martinsburg!

Now that you’ve learned how hybrid cars work, it’s time to experience one yourself. At CMA's Chevrolet of Martinsburg, we want to get you behind the wheel of the perfect model for your needs around Berkeley Springs, WV and beyond. As more gas-electric and plug-in electric options are released, it’s easier to find one that meets your budget and lifestyle. Explore our new vehicle specials to see what catches your eye. Reduce what you owe by trading your current car in with our dealership. Discover the latest hybrids near Winchester, VA at CMA's Chevrolet of Martinsburg!