what is hybrid car

A hybrid car is a vehicle that combines at least one electric motor with a gasoline engine to move the car, and its system recaptures energy via regenerative braking. The electric motor and the gasoline engine can work together or separately, depending on the driving conditions, to maximize both fuel efficiency and energy efficiency. The battery pack, which is separate from the cars conventional 12-volt battery, provides electricity to start the car before the traction battery is engaged, and it also powers vehicle accessories. The battery is charged through regenerative braking and by the internal combustion engine, and the extra power provided by the electric motor can potentially allow for a smaller engine. 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.