what is a hybrid car

A hybrid car is a vehicle that combines at least one electric motor with a gasoline engine to move the car. The electric motor and gasoline engine can work together or separately, depending on the driving conditions, to maximize fuel efficiency and energy efficiency. The electric motor is more efficient at producing torque, or turning power, while the combustion engine is better for maintaining high speed. The battery pack in a hybrid car is separate from the cars conventional 12-volt battery and 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, which results in better fuel economy without sacrificing performance. Hybrids also use the gas engine to charge and maintain the battery. The benefits of hybridization include improved efficiency, lower emissions, and reduced running costs relative to non-hybrid vehicles. Today's hybrids come in all shapes and sizes, from compact hatchbacks to three-row SUVs, and many outperform their non-hybrid counterparts in road tests and do well in reliability rankings.