A hybrid vehicle, in simplest terms, is the combination of two or more sources of power. Hybrids are able to utilize the combination of the internal combustion engine and the electric motor. They significantly improve fuel economy without sacrificing performance. This engine represents the best of both worlds because it decreases emissions of conventional vehicles and rises above the shortfalls of purely electric cars.

The engine used in a hybrid vehicle is much like one that is found in most vehicles, however, it is smaller and uses more sophisticated technology. Although hybrids use an internal combustion engine like traditional vehicles, they have the unique ability to capture the kinetic energy. This energy is captured from braking that is normally wasted by a conventional vehicle which is then stored in the vehicles’ battery for later use. Hybrid vehicles’ electric motors use advanced technology and electronics to allow this component to act as both a motor and a generator. The electric motor may be used for low speed cruising often up to 20 miles per hour and for extra power while accelerating. Due to this alternative power source the hybrid does not need to use the gasoline engine all the time. For example the hybrid can turn off the gasoline engine when the vehicle is stopped. The vehicles computer control system works to calculate and determine when the gasoline engine and electric motor should be used. Hybrid vehicles do not have to be plugged in.

Hybrid cars achieve two great benefits: they reduce tailpipe emissions and pollutants that contribute to poor air quality and global warming and they improve gas mileage. These features translate into fuel savings and an improved environment.