What is the Hybrid Car Definition?

Hybrid cars feature smart engineering to make the most out of every drop of gas, but what makes a hybrid car different from a gas-powered model? The hybrid car definition says that hybrids feature an electric motor and a gasoline engine. These two components work together to boost fuel economy in Thibodaux and Paradis. But, there are several different options to explore in the ever growing market. Continue your research with Southland Dodge, and find out what type of hybrid car is right for you!

Types of Hybrid Cars

We’ve gone through the basic hybrid car meaning, but there are several types of hybrid car on the market today. While parallel hybrid engineering is the most common in Hahnville, you’ll find other options like series hybrid and plug-in hybrid models available as well. Here are the differences between the three primary types:

Parallel Hybrid

Most hybrid models are considered parallel hybrids. These vehicles are equipped with both a gasoline-powered engine and an electric motor. Both components are paired with the transmission, and both contribute power to move the vehicle forward. 

Series Hybrid

A series hybrid is also equipped with a gasoline-powered engine and an electric motor, but the configuration is different. In this design, only the electric motor is paired with the transmission. The gas engine merely acts as a generator to keep the motor running, which means the electric motor is the top priority in the powertrain.

Plug-In Hybrid

A plug in hybrid shares many similarities to the parallel hybrid model. Like a parallel hybrid, both the electric motor and gasoline engine are connected to the transmission. But, the plug-in hybrid features a much larger battery pack. The battery is so large that a plug-in hybrid can operate solely on electricity – unlike most hybrids. But if the plug-in runs out of battery power on the road, the gas-powered engine will take over to bring the car home.

Find Your Hybrid Vehicle at Southland Dodge!

Want to get behind the wheel of a brand new hybrid? Visit Southland Dodge to explore our Pacifica Hybrid inventory and other options in our Houma showroom. Contact us with any questions, and we’d be happy to help you find the right car for your wants and needs.