Full hybrid cars such as the Toyota Prius are able to move around at low speeds on electric power alone, usually up to around 40mph. In general driving, the electric motor is used primarily to "fill in the gaps", reducing the need for the petrol engine to be running when it's least efficient, such as during parking manoeuvres or in start/stop traffic. Mild hybrids simply have a smaller electric motor and battery pack that assist the engine when accelerating, reducing fuel consumption as a result.
Petrol hybrid cars combine a traditional petrol engine with an electric motor. The petrol engine and electric motor work together to power the vehicle, increasing fuel efficiency and reducing emissions. When driving at lower speeds or in stop-and-go traffic, the electric motor takes over, relying solely on the battery pack to power the car. When more power or acceleration is needed, the petrol engine is turned on and works alongside the electric motor to power the car.
Yes, petrol hybrid cars are design to be fuel efficient. Combining a petrol engine with an electric motor allows them to achieve better mileage per tank and reduce fuel consumption compared to traditional petrol-only powered vehicles.
The range of a petrol hybrid car differs from model to model. Typically on electric power only they can only drive short distances, whereas when using both petrol and electricity they can go for much longer ranges.
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