Monday, April 6, 2009

Hybrid Car

The one consumer decision most people make which impacts the greatest on the environment is the choice of car we drive.

Hybrid Cars offer drivers an innovative, efficient, and affordable option. After years of 'on the road' development, gas-electric hybrid cars have become a practical choice for consumers.



A hybrid car features a small fuel-efficient gas engine combined with an electric motor that assists the engine when accelerating. The electric motor is powered by batteries that recharge automatically while you drive.

Hybrid cars also gain efficiency from:
Smaller and more efficient engines.
Regenerative braking - the electric motor that drives the hybrid can also slow the car. In this mode, the electric motor acts as a generator and charges the batteries while the car is slowing down.
Periodic engine shut off - when a hybrid car is stopped in traffic, the engine is temporarily shut off. It restarts automatically when put back into gear.
Advanced aerodynamics - to reduce drag
Low-rolling resistance (LLR) tires - narrow, stiffer tires have less drag
Lightweight materials - increases the efficiency of hybrid cars.

Hybrid Cars



A hybrid vehicle is a vehicle that uses two or more distinct power sources to move the vehicle.[1] The term most commonly refers to hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs), which combine an internal combustion engine and one or more electric motors.