Why HEVs are in demand? What is the power behind HEVs?

Hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs), which combine the advantages of internal combustion engines (ICEs) and electric motors, represent a significant advancement in automotive technology.

Fuel efficiency is improved with reduced emissions and enhanced driving performance.

The major components of Hybrid Electric Vehicles

• Internal combustion engines (ICE) in hybrid electric vehicles are similar to those in traditional gasoline or diesel vehicles. smaller and more efficient due to the assistance of the electric motor.
• Electric motors in an HEV provide additional power in the vehicle, mainly during acceleration, and also provide low-speed driving. The energy can be drawn out of the battery pack, where it can act as a generator during regenerative braking.
• Hybrid electric vehicles use battery packs with high capacity to store electrical energy. The batteries are mostly lithium-ion or nickel-metal hydride and are also charged via regenerative braking and the ICE.
• In the power electronics controller, the flow of electrical energy is managed between the battery and the electric motor, where the speed of the electric motor can be controlled and also produce torque.
• Regenerative braking systems can capture kinetic energy during braking and are also able to convert the energy into electrical energy. The battery can store the energy to process and enhance the overall efficiency of the vehicle.

Working Principles of Hybrid Electric Vehicles

A combination of the ICE (Internal Combustion Engines) and the electric motor is used for operating HEVs with the power distribution varying based on the driving conditions.

The three main types of HEV configurations:-

1. Series Hybrid

An electric generator is driven by the ICE, which in turn charges the battery and powers up the electric motor. In the case of HEV, the sole source of propulsion is an electric motor, which makes the vehicle operate similarly to an electric vehicle (EV) but with an added range provided by the ICE.

2. Parallel Hybrid:

The ICE and the electric motor can independently or simultaneously drive the vehicle’s wheels. An optimal power distribution is allowed with the setup to improve fuel efficiency and also the performance. The battery charging is also possible with the ICE while driving.

3. Series-Parallel Hybrid:

The elements of both series and parallel hybrids are configured where the vehicle can operate on the ICE, the electric motor, or both, depending on the driving condition.

Innovations driving HEVs

• Regenerative braking is one of the key innovations where traditional braking systems can dissipate kinetic energy as heat, wasting potential energy. The energy is captured by the regenerative braking systems where it can be converted into electric energy, to store in the battery for later use. The process also improves fuel efficiency with an extension of the life of the braking system.
• Start-Stop Technology is also featured by HEVs where the ICE automatically shuts off with the vehicle idling and restarting when the accelerator is pressed. The fuel consumption is also reduced and also the emission, mainly in urban driving conditions with frequent stops.
• Advanced Battery Technology with a high-capacity development and long-lasting batteries. In particular, Lithium-ion batteries offer high energy density, fast charging times, and long cycle life. The researchers are aiming to improve battery performance and reduce costs.
• The new HEVs or Hybrid Electric Vehicles are equipped with sophisticated energy management systems to optimize the use of the ICE and the electric motor. The systems are also able to analyze the driving conditions with an adjustment of power distribution to achieve maximum efficiency and performance. The electric motor is a major example to be used extensively for driving in the city while the ICE takes over on highways.
• The fuel efficiency is enhanced with lightweight materials that can be manufactured efficiently such as aluminum, carbon fiber, and high-strength steel in the construction of HEVs. The overall weight of the vehicle can be reduced by these materials to improve its performance and efficiency.

Sources:- afdc, noodoe, Shrink That Footprint, consumerreports, ackodrive, edmunds, encyclopedia