How Do Hybrid Electric Vehicles Work?

Automotive manufacturers continue to work toward a future that features zero emissions from vehicles. This means increased production of hybrid and electric vehicles to help reduce our carbon footprint on the roadways.

Hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs) are becoming more prevalent. These are vehicles that combine the benefits of both gasoline engines and electric motors. According to the National Renewable Energy Laboratory, electric vehicles (EVs) could account for 30-42 million of the vehicles on the road by 2030.

Keep reading to learn more about how HEVs work and how Universal Technical Institute (UTI) is updating its curriculum to train students on this technology.

How Do Hybrid Electric Engines Work?

Hybrid electric vehicles use two forms of energy, which include a voltage battery along with an internal combustion engine (ICE). They can travel short distances on full electric power. In addition to powering the vehicle, the ICE runs an electric generator that also recharges the battery pack.

Most hybrid systems recover energy from braking. Hybrids convert this kinetic energy into electrical energy to recharge the high-voltage battery pack. This conversion process is known as regenerative braking.

The longer the battery pack maintains a proper charge, the more the electric motor can be used to power the vehicle. This also allows the gasoline engine to run less. The result is increased fuel efficiency and reduced CO₂ emissions.

Depending on driving conditions and operator input, the vehicle may use one or both power sources to propel it. Typically, the vehicle uses only the electric motor at low speeds and upon light acceleration. During normal driving, the internal combustion engine powers it.

Under heavy acceleration, both the engine and the electric motor may power the vehicle. When it stops, both the engine and electric motors are off. However, the vehicle remains operational by using electricity stored in a high-voltage battery pack.

What are the main components of a Hybrid Electic Vehicle?

Now that you know how hybrid cars work, we’re here to offer you a breakdown of the main components.

The primary parts of an HEV include an internal combustion engine, an electric motor and a battery pack. The internal combustion engine is typically smaller than that in conventional vehicles and is used for powering the vehicle at high speeds and when additional power is necessary.

The electric motor, powered by the battery, drives the vehicle during low-speed operation and assists the engine during acceleration, enhancing fuel economy and reducing emissions.

The battery pack stores electrical energy that the electric motor uses. It is recharged through regenerative braking and by the internal combustion engine.

Other crucial components include a power control unit that manages the power flows between the engine and motor and a transmission system, which, in many hybrids, is specifically designed to handle the dual inputs from both the engine and electric motor.

How to Charge a Hybrid Electric Vehicle

A hybrid (non-plug-in) vehicle can typically recharge the high-voltage battery using two methods:

• Regenerative braking/coasting: The drive wheels turn the generator, which creates the voltage needed to recharge the high-voltage battery. Additionally, the brakes no longer have to supply all the braking effort, which decreases wear on the brake pads.
• The internal combustion engine: The ICE turns the generator to recharge the high-voltage battery.

Types of Electric Vehicles

There are a few different hybrid electric, hybrid and electric vehicle categories in the market that are used to meet various goals, whether it’s increasing fuel efficiency or decreasing the cost. From entry-level hybrid cars to more advanced models, there’s something for everyone.

These include:

• Micro (start/stop).
• Mild (48-volt).
• Full hybrid.
• Plug-in hybrid.
• Full electric.

Benefits of Hybrid Electric Vehicles

Hybrid electric vehicles offer a range of benefits that make them an attractive option for those who want to reduce the impact on the environment and save on fuel costs.

HEVs combine an internal combustion engine with one or more electric motors. This dual-source approach significantly reduces fuel consumption and lowers emissions compared with traditional gasoline-powered vehicles.

HEVs can often recharge their batteries through regenerative braking, a process that converts kinetic energy from braking into electrical energy, further enhancing their efficiency. Additionally, the reliance on electric power for some driving scenarios reduces the overall wear and tear on the engine, potentially leading to longer vehicle life and lower maintenance costs.

With these advantages, HEVs represent a practical step towards more sustainable transportation, making them a popular choice among environmentally conscious drivers.

Hybrid Electric Engine FAQs

How does the engine in a hybrid car switch between gasoline and electric power?

In a hybrid car, the engine's management system seamlessly switches between gasoline and electric power based on the vehicle's current needs and driving conditions. During low-speed driving or when stopped, the vehicle primarily uses its electric motor, conserving gasoline and reducing emissions. As the vehicle requires more power, such as during acceleration or driving uphill, the gasoline engine automatically engages to provide additional thrust.

What is the role of the electric motor in a hybrid car?

In a hybrid car, the electric motor plays a crucial role in enhancing fuel efficiency and reducing emissions. It primarily powers the vehicle during low-speed maneuvers and stops, allowing for a quieter and more energy-efficient operation compared with the gasoline engine.

Electric Vehicle Courses Coming to UTI

Given the move by manufacturers and policymaking aimed toward a zero-emissions future, UTI has updated its hybrid and electric vehicle coursework at its California campuses: Long Beach, Rancho Cucamonga and Sacramento. All other UTI campuses are scheduled to be updated with the hybrid and electric vehicle coursework.

UTI has a strategy for electric vehicles that includes adding even more content to the core Automotive Technology program, as well as updating and adding Manufacturer-Specific Advanced Training (MSAT) programs that incorporate hybrid and electric vehicle technology. UTI also plans to develop training models and brand relationship opportunities.

The three-week Battery Electric Vehicle course at UTI’s California campuses helps to enhance student knowledge through topics like electric vehicle components, diagnosis and services, electronic principles and safety and more. This course was created alongside Bosch, a global supplier of technology and service.

UTI also offers an automotive hybrid course at the Exton, Houston, Lisle and Mooresville campuses that teaches critical safety standards for hybrid vehicles, drive system components and more.

And, for students who enroll in the 15-week Ford Accelerated Credential Training (FACT) program, there is an opportunity to expand their EV knowledge as well.⁸ They’ll learn about hybrid and electric systems operations and how to diagnose and repair these vehicles.

In a news release from Nov. 10, 2021, UTI CEO Jerome Grant said, “Just as we have done with the combustion engine, we intend to be at the forefront of training for major manufacturers of electric vehicles.”

UTI is committed to remaining up to date on what’s happening in the industry and is excited about the future of HEV and EV technology!

READ MORE: ELECTRIC VEHICLE TRAINING AT UTI

Automotive Technician Training at UTI

In less than a year, you can graduate from UTI’s Automotive Technology program with the skills you need to service a range of vehicles as an automotive technician.^1,7 You could have the opportunity to go through the hybrid electric and electric vehicle courses as well.

Students can learn to perform basic maintenance and repairs on hybrid systems and components, including hybrid vehicle batteries and electric motors and controls.

Students who graduate from the program will have received the hands-on training needed to pursue an entry-level role in the industry.¹⁸ Gain a quality education from a state-of-the-industry trade school that stays up to date with what’s happening in the field.

Enroll today to get started on your career journey. Want to learn more? Visit our website to request more information from an Admissions Representative!