What is a plug-in hybrid car?Ī plug-in hybrid vehicle (PHEV) is a gasoline-powered hybrid with a much larger battery and a means to recharge it using an external power source. How do hybrid cars work? Their electric motors function as generators when you press the brake, and the energy that's regenerated during braking is stored in a small battery for immediate use the next time you accelerate from rest.Įxamples of a hybrid car include the Honda Accord Hybrid, the Lexus RX 450h and the Toyota Prius. At times, both systems work together for added power. Hybrids also have electric motors that sometimes power the car in order to delay the use of the gasoline engine and save fuel. A vehicle is a hybrid if it is 100% gasoline-fueled but doesn't rely solely on its gasoline engine for propulsion.
