A Beginner-Friendly Guide to Hybrid Vehicle Terms and Acronyms
Whether you're new to hybrid vehicles or just want to brush up on the lingo, understanding the terms used in hybrid car discussions can make your research much easier. This glossary breaks down the most common words, phrases, and acronyms you’ll encounter while shopping for, owning, or driving a hybrid.
A–F
All-Wheel Drive (AWD)
A drivetrain that sends power to all four wheels to improve traction. Many hybrid SUVs, such as the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid, include AWD as standard or optional.
Battery Pack
The rechargeable energy storage system that powers the electric motor in a hybrid. It is typically charged through regenerative braking.
Combustion Engine
The gasoline-powered part of a hybrid vehicle. It works in combination with the electric motor to drive the wheels.
Crossover Hybrid
A hybrid vehicle built on an SUV-style platform, usually offering a taller ride height, flexible cargo space, and a higher seating position.
Drive Modes
Selectable settings that adjust a vehicle’s performance and efficiency. Common drive modes in hybrids include Eco, EV-only, and Sport.
G–M
HEV (Hybrid Electric Vehicle)
The most common hybrid type. It uses both a gasoline engine and an electric motor but does not plug in to recharge.
Inverter
An electrical device that converts the battery’s direct current (DC) into alternating current (AC) to power the motor.
Kilowatt (kW)
A unit of electrical power often used to describe the output of an electric motor or the capacity of a battery.
Li-ion (Lithium-Ion Battery)
A widely used battery type in modern hybrids. It is known for being lightweight, energy-efficient, and long-lasting.
MPG (Miles Per Gallon)
A measure of fuel efficiency. Many hybrids deliver between 40 and 50 MPG or more depending on the vehicle and how it’s driven.
N–S
Nickel-Metal Hydride (NiMH) Battery
An older battery technology that is still used in some hybrids. It is heavier than lithium-ion but has proven reliable over time.
Parallel Hybrid
A type of hybrid system where both the gasoline engine and the electric motor can directly power the wheels. This layout is ideal for mixed city and highway driving.
Power Split Device
A mechanical component that manages how the gasoline engine and electric motor share the job of driving the vehicle.
Regenerative Braking (Brake Regeneration)
A system that captures energy while the vehicle slows down and converts it into electricity to recharge the battery. It also helps reduce brake wear.
Series Hybrid
A hybrid setup where only the electric motor powers the wheels. The gasoline engine works solely as a generator to produce electricity for the motor or recharge the battery.
T–Z
Traction Battery
Another name for a hybrid’s main battery pack. It stores the energy needed to power the electric motor.
Transmission (eCVT)
Short for “electronic continuously variable transmission.” This system smoothly adjusts the power output from the hybrid system to improve efficiency and performance.
Toyota Hybrid System (THS)
Toyota’s proprietary hybrid technology. It blends gasoline and electric power for optimal performance and fuel savings.
Under Load
Refers to when a vehicle is working harder than normal, such as climbing a hill or accelerating quickly. Both power sources are often active during these moments.
Zero Emissions (ZEV)
Vehicles that produce no tailpipe emissions. While hybrids are not classified as zero-emissions vehicles, they do reduce overall emissions compared to gasoline-only cars.
Wrap-Up
Learning these hybrid-specific terms can boost your confidence as you explore hybrid options. Whether you're reading reviews, speaking with a salesperson, or checking out specs, this glossary gives you the language to make informed decisions.
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