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What are the types of hybrid cars? mHEV, HEV, PHEV, REEV?
Not so long ago, the market was dominated by combustion engine cars, and electric units were associated only with Melex-type vehicles. Today, we have four basic types of hybrid cars to choose from:
• HEV – classic hybrid
• MHEV – mild hybrid
• PHEV – a hybrid with the possibility of charging
• REEV (EREV) – extended-range hybrid.
In the following article, we will discuss their basic features and analyze the advantages and disadvantages to determine which one is best to choose.
In addition to hybrid cars, car enthusiasts today also have the choice of traditional combustion cars and fully electric BEVs ( Battery Electric Vehicles ). BEVs are vehicles without a combustion engine, powered solely by electricity from batteries located under the floor. For more detailed information on hybrid and electric cars, see our article " Hybrids vs. Electric Cars – Which to Choose?"
- What is a hybrid car and how does it work?
- MHEV (Mild Hybrid) – mild support for the combustion engine
- HEV (Full Hybrid) – classic hybrid without charging
- PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid) – plug-in hybrid
- REEV (Range Extender) – extended range hybrid
- Which type of hybrid to choose? Comparison and advantages and disadvantages
- The Future of Hybrid Cars – Where Is Technology Heading?
- How to take care of a used hybrid you bought?
What is a hybrid car and how does it work?
The operating principle of a hybrid car is the cooperation of a traditional combustion engine with a modern electric drive , enabling the comfortable driving experience typical of combustion engines, enhanced by savings related to reduced operating costs, i.e., the use of electricity instead of traditional fuels. The interaction of the two power sources varies depending on the type of hybrid car. The key to efficiency is the use of recuperation in hybrids.
MHEV (Mild Hybrid) – mild support for the combustion engine
We begin our review of hybrid cars with the Mild Hybrid Electric Vehicle, or MHEV for short. Another common name is mild hybrid. The fundamental difference, compared to a classic HEV hybrid, is that its drive system relies less on the electric motor, primarily for starting and accelerating. In other words, it is equipped with a smaller electric motor, and therefore a smaller traction battery to power the electric motor. Electricity is obtained through recuperation. This type of drive is most often used in smaller, lighter cars, primarily intended for city driving.
HEV (Full Hybrid) – classic hybrid without charging
A classic hybrid is called a Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV). It has a standard combustion engine and an electric motor powered by a low-power battery. HEV hybrids don't require charging, as the battery powering the electric motor is charged through recuperation, which recovers kinetic energy generated during braking and converts it into electricity. The electric motor is primarily used when starting off. HEV hybrids are suitable for city cars.
PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid) – plug-in hybrid
A plug-in hybrid, or Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV), operates on the same principle as a classic HEV or MHEV hybrid, with one key difference: it can be connected to an external power source, allowing it to charge its battery. The electric motor, more powerful than in HEV or MHEV hybrids, not only supports the combustion engine, especially during takeoff and acceleration, but also allows for free switching between the selected power modes: combustion, electric, and hybrid. Driving solely on the electric motor allows for a range of several dozen kilometers. PHEV hybrids are often larger family cars, used not only for city driving but also for weekend trips or vacations.
REEV (Range Extender) – extended range hybrid
An EREV, or Extended Range Electric Vehicle, also known as a REEV, or Range Extended Electric Vehicle, is another type of hybrid vehicle. They differ from HEV, MHEV, and PHEV hybrids primarily in that they use only an electric motor to propel the vehicle , a much more powerful one than in other hybrids. The combustion generator serves an auxiliary function , not as a means of propulsion but rather to recharge the battery while driving. A REEV hybrid can be charged from an external power source and is distinguished by its quiet driving characteristics.
Which type of hybrid to choose? Comparison and advantages and disadvantages
The advantages of a traditional HEV hybrid include ease of use and the lack of charging requirements. The downside is the limited range of electric power, which is generally used only for starting and accelerating. A plug-in PHEV hybrid can be charged either from a household outlet or at a charging station. The range covered on electric power is much greater than that of an HEV. Both types can consume significantly less gasoline than comparable combustion-powered models . The number of charging stations and car repair shops specializing in this type of vehicle is increasing year by year – another argument in favor. Hybrids are a good solution for someone who rarely drives and drives primarily in the city. Furthermore, hybrids are less prone to breakdowns than combustion cars , as they do not use many break-in parts, such as alternators, starter motors, or V-belts. If you're planning longer trips, it's worth choosing a hybrid with an extended REEV range.
The Future of Hybrid Cars – Where Is Technology Heading?
The development of hybrid car technology, or more broadly, alternatives to combustion engines, will undoubtedly continue at an accelerating pace. In the coming years, engineers will likely succeed in developing solutions that will make their current shortcomings, such as a relatively short range, a thing of the past. It's no wonder that many potential buyers of hybrid and BEV cars are now asking themselves, " Do electric cars lose range in winter ?" Perhaps the recipe for success will be entirely new solutions, such as the FCEV (Fuel Cell Electric Vehicle) —hydrogen-powered vehicles.
How to take care of a used hybrid you bought?
The downside of all new hybrids is the still relatively high prices in dealerships. Buying a used car may be a solution to this problem. When choosing such a car, it's important to have the model you're interested in inspected, just as with combustion-engined cars, to ensure its mechanical (and electrical) integrity. Particular attention is paid to the condition of the traction battery and cooling system . Then, it's time to do some work on the car to achieve the look you desire. A variety of quality Moja Auto products are essential for this, including popular car cosmetics , advanced car chemicals , and specialized car detailing products . Car fragrances will also be useful , and in the trunk, practical car accessories for every occasion.
