Starting, Low Speed and Cruising with a Full Hybrid

Starting

When a full hybrid vehicle is initially started, the battery typically powers all accessories.

The gasoline engine only starts if the battery needs to be charged or the accessories require more power than available from the battery.

Low Speed

For initial acceleration and slow-speed driving, as well as reverse, the electric motor uses electricity from the battery to power the vehicle.

If the battery needs to be recharged, the generator starts the engine and converts energy from the engine into electricity, which is stored in the battery.

Cruising

At speeds above mid-range, both the engine and electric motor are used to propel the vehicle.

The gasoline engine provides power to the drive-train directly and to the electric motor via the generator.

The generator can also convert energy from the engine into electricity and send it to the battery for storage.