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A beginner's Guide to Hybrid Technology |
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Written by Kacey Green
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Monday, 13 February 2006 |
The Toronto Star Reports : 2/11Not all hybrids are created equal. Toyota's uses a so-called "full-hybrid'' system, in which the vehicle can move at low speeds on the strength of its electric motor alone, like a golf cart. Most hybrids on the market, or coming to the market, are full-hybrid designs. "Weak'' hybrid systems (something of a misnomer) involve an electric motor...
...sandwiched between the engine and transmission that only boosts power from the gas engine. Weak hybrid systems, such as that in the Honda Insight, don't propel the vehicle on its electricity alone. In GM's hybrid pickups, the electric motor doesn't add any propulsion but works as an oversized starter/generator, allowing the gas engine to switch off and on smoothly while coasting or stopped in traffic. All hybrids take advantage of this stop-start efficiency — one reason they get better gas mileage in city driving.
The article fails to take in some of the more technical aspects of hybrid design and operation, but it is a great start for beginners and is titled appropriately. It does a great job showing the differences between Toyota's and others' awesome "Strong Hybrid", technology vs. Honda's very capable "Assist Hybrid" technology, vs. GM's we didn't even try but wanted to slap the word hybrid on something technology. It is also worth mentioning that GM is coming out with what they claim will be a strong hybrid. Only time will tell if they carry out their word and if their financials can hold long enough for it to come to fruition.
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Last Updated ( Wednesday, 08 March 2006 )
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