hybrid technology library

 

As hybrid technology evolves, hybrid car owners will reap the benefits of lower emissions and fuel consumption. Check out this section to learn about all the amazing breakthroughs in the field of hybrid technology.

Featured Article:  How Hydrogen Cars Work

Hydrogen is the most abundant element on Earth. We've known how to harness its power since the early 1800s. So, why do some experts say hydrogen-powered cars are still decades away from mass production? See more »

5 Ways Hybrid Battery Packs are Being Improved

5 Ways Hybrid Battery Packs are Being Improved

Some potential hybrid car buyers never actually buy a hybrid because they feel the batteries are too costly to replace or have a somewhat short life. So, what's being done to improve the technology?

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Are hybrid cars slower than regular cars?

Are hybrid cars slower than regular cars?

If your goal is to save money at the fuel pump and to do your part in reducing tailpipe emissions, a hybrid car is an excellent choice. However, are you sacrificing speed for fuel efficiency?

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Can hybrid engines create more power?

Can hybrid engines create more power?

Most people associate hybrid engines with green driving, but how can drivers add more power to their vehicles? It's easier than it sounds, but trade-offs abound.

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Can I buy an electric car at Sam's Club?

Can I buy an electric car at Sam's Club?

If you're a member of Sam's Club, then you already know the great deals a membership can provide for you and your family or business. But can you really buy an electric car through Sam's Club, too?

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Can I power my car with AA batteries?

Can I power my car with AA batteries?

With very few exceptions, cars have always required batteries. Hybrid and electric cars use high-powered (and often expensive) battery packs, but could you power your car with ordinary AA batteries?

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Can owning a hybrid car get me an HOV decal?

Can owning a hybrid car get me an HOV decal?

Most people know that the High Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) lane is for buses, carpool vans, motorcycles, emergency vehicles and cars and trucks with more than one occupant. But what if you drive a hybrid?

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Do hybrid cars cause pollution?

Do hybrid cars cause pollution?

There's a movement to get everyone onboard with the idea of alternative fuel vehicles. Hybrid cars are the popular choice right now. But if hybrid cars burn gasoline, aren't they still causing pollution?

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Do hybrid cars get power through kinetics?

Do hybrid cars get power through kinetics?

Hybrid cars are fuel-efficient -- there's no doubt about that. However, is it true that hybrid car manufacturers have found a way to make use of kinetic energy that's normally wasted?

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Do hybrid cars perform well in cold weather?

Do hybrid cars perform well in cold weather?

Hybrid cars are engineered to operate at peak efficiency in specific environments. But what happens when the environment is dramatically changed? Can a hybrid car perform just as well in cold weather?

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How Alternative Fuel Filling Stations Work

How Alternative Fuel Filling Stations Work

It seems as though a lot of people are seriously considering the purchase of an alternative fuel vehicle. But have you thought about how you're going to fill it up or charge it when you need to?

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How can hybrid cars utilize solar power?

How can hybrid cars utilize solar power?

Some automakers are beginning to offer solar panels on their hybrid cars. One manufacturer even includes a solar panel on a non-hybrid car. So, how much added power can a solar panel really provide?

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How Electric Car Conversion Kits Work

How Electric Car Conversion Kits Work

Some car owners use an electric car conversion kit to make their vehicle all-electric. Others use the kits to add driving range to an already efficient hybrid car. But do these kits really work?

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How Exhaust Heat Recovery and Recirculation Works

How Exhaust Heat Recovery and Recirculation Works

In this increasingly green world, automakers are looking for ways to increase product efficiency. Their focus might surprise you: The exhaust pipe.

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How Hybrid System Indicators Work

How Hybrid System Indicators Work

If you don't drive a hybrid car, you may not know the purpose of a hybrid system indicator. Not only do they monitor the car's vital operating systems, but they help drivers become more efficient, too.

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How Hydrogen Cars Work

How Hydrogen Cars Work

Hydrogen is the most abundant element on Earth. We've known how to harness its power since the early 1800s. So, why do some experts say hydrogen-powered cars are still decades away from mass production?

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How Idle-stop Systems Work

How Idle-stop Systems Work

Did you know your car is operating at its lowest possible fuel efficiency when you're in stop-and-go traffic or if you're at a standstill and the engine continues to run at idle speed?

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How Instant MPG Readout Works

How Instant MPG Readout Works

Most hybrid cars have instant miles per gallon readout as standard equipment. This feature gives immediate mpg information to the driver. But can this simple device actually save money at the pump?

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How much does it cost to replace a hybrid battery?

How much does it cost to replace a hybrid battery?

Replacing the battery pack on your hybrid can easily set you back $2,500 or more. However, the prices for these components are changing as quickly as the hybrid car industry itself.

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How much voltage does a hybrid car produce?

How much voltage does a hybrid car produce?

Hybrid vehicles are eco-friendly because they use less gasoline and produce fewer emissions. However, their reliance on electrical power raises some safety concerns for drivers.

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How SmartWay Vehicles Work

How SmartWay Vehicles Work

You're in luck if you're in the market for a fuel-efficient car, truck or SUV -- there are quite a few options available. But what if you want a vehicle that's a certified environmental performer?

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