Modern mass-produced hybrids can recharge their batteries while underway. When cruising or idling, some of the output of the combustion engine is fed to a generator (sometimes merely the main electric motor running backwards) which generates electricity to charge the batteries. This contrasts with all-electric cars which use batteries charged by an external source. Hybrids still require conventional fuel—usually gasoline, though diesel and other fuels have also seen occasional use
A gas-electric hybrid engine is a combination of a gasoline/petrol or diesel internal combustion engine with an electric motor to power a vehicle. Various designs exist for how the motor and engine interact with the drive train. Because the engine recharges the battery smaller batteries are required than in an electric vehicle.
A standard combustion engine is required to operate over a range of speed and power, yet its highest efficiency is in a narrow range of operation. Also, an engine designed for a reduced operating range can be more efficient than a standard engine. The battery storage and electric motor allows the engine to operate at its point of maximum efficiency, to be of a higher efficiency design, and to be smaller than non-hybrid applications.
The gas-electric hybrid uses less gasoline than conventional internal combustion engines and does not have the limitations in range that have been a problem for traditional electric vehicles. This type of piston engine is used in hybrid electric vehicles which have begun to enter the market as of 2002.
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