Hybrid electric vehicles are powered by an internal combustion engine and one or more electric motors, which use energy stored in batteries. A hybrid electric vehicle cannot be plugged in to charge the battery. Instead, the battery is charged through regenerative braking and by the internal combustion engine. The extra power provided by the electric motor can potentially allow for a smaller engine. The battery can also power auxiliary loads and reduce engine idling when stopped. Together, these features result in better fuel economy without sacrificing performance.
Key Components of a Hybrid Electric Car
Battery (auxiliary): The low-voltage auxiliary battery of an electric drive vehicle powers accessories as well as starting the vehicle before the traction battery kicks in.
DC/DC converter:This device, known as a DC/DC converter, transforms higher-voltage DC power from the traction battery pack into the lower-voltage DC power required to operate the vehicle’s accessories and replenish the auxiliary battery.
Electric generator: Produces power during braking by harnessing the motion of the wheels, then feeds that energy back into the traction battery pack. Some automobiles employ motor generators that serve as both drives and regenerators.
Electric traction motor: This motor powers the wheels of the vehicle by drawing energy from the traction battery pack. Some automobiles employ motor generators that serve as both drives and regenerators.
Exhaust system:: The exhaust system directs the engine’s exhaust gases to the vehicle’s tailpipe for discharge. To lessen engine-out emissions in the exhaust system, a three-way catalyst is used.
Gasoline filler: To fill the tank, a nozzle from a fuel dispenser is attached to the tank’s receptacle on the car.
Fuel tank (gasoline): This tank holds gasoline within the car until the engine needs it.
Internal combustion engine: In this design, gasoline is pumped into the combustion chamber or the intake manifold, where it is blended with air. The air/fuel combination is then ignited by the spark from a spark plug.
Power electronics controller: The power electronics controller regulates the flow of electrical energy from the traction battery, regulating the torque and speed of the electric traction motor.
Thermal system (cooling): This system keeps the engine, electric motor, power electronics, and other components within a safe operating temperature range.
Electricity is stored in the traction battery pack, which the electric traction motor will utilise.
Transmission: The transmission converts electrical power from the traction motor or engine into mechanical power that drives the wheels.
Transmission: The transmission converts electrical power from the traction motor or engine into mechanical power that drives the wheels.