Around a decade ago, cars were generally powered by an internal combustion engine, fueled by petrol or diesel. These were the only options available for the longest time. With time, options other than ICE engine vehicles were introduced. These include hybrid cars, battery-powered cars, electric cars and fuel cell electric vehicles.
In the past few decades, the automotive industry has grown by leaps and bounds and among other advancements, the introduction of hybrid and electric vehicles are prominent ones. Both the vehicles have various types and each come with their own set of advantages and challenges. Let’s go through the difference between hybrid and electric car powertrain in detail.
The Hybrid Powertrain
Years after the standard internal combustion engine (ICE) hybrid powertrain was introduced in two distinct types. The first one was the hybrid, also known as an HEV – Hybrid Electric Vehicle. Although the hybrid powertrain relied on fuel, it used a new technology whereby the engine was paired with an electric motor and a small battery pack. With the hybrid technology, the engine performance and efficiency performed and results in better fuel economy.
To put it simply, hybrid vehicles are powered by an internal combustion engine and one or more electric motors that use battery energy. Which means instead of just one standard power output, there is a combined power output.
The other type of hybrid powertrain is the plug-in hybrid. This is also similarly configured. Much like hybrid powertrains, it works with an ICE engine, an electric motor and a battery pack. However, hybrid car batteries are bigger and last longer. Instead of just boosting the engine, this setup can power the car completely on its own.
Both these options are eco-friendly options.
The Electric Car Powertrain
Just like hybrids, electric car powertrains also come in different types including battery-electric vehicle (BEV) and the fuel-cell electric vehicle (FCEV) also known as water-hybrid car.
The most common types of EVs are battery-electric vehicles. They are equipped with one to four motors and a powerful battery pack. The electric powertrain is very powerful, and also helps tackle climate change.
On the other hand, hydrogen systems for cars are relatively new and haven’t really taken off in the mainstream market. That said, a hydrogen engine is really efficient and much cleaner than a regular EV. This is because household electricity is often produced via less-than-green methods.
Unfortunately, not many places have the infrastructure to supply fuel cells for hydrogen cars.
Hybrid Vs Electric Car Powertrain – Which is Better
When it comes to a comparison between electric vs hybrid car powertrains, both come with their own set of advantages and disadvantages. Let’s go through them in detail.
Benefits of Hybrid Car Powertrain
- Established and trusted technology
- Some hybrid car models are also available at economical prices
- Have the safety of being powered by fuel
- Easy to maintain
- Batteries are extensive
- Improved fuel economy
Disadvantages of Hybrid Car Powertrain
- Limited electric range
- Not as green as EVs
Benefits of Electric Car Powertrain
- Powerful and efficient powertrains
- Reduced carbon emission
- Safe, quite and high-tech
Disadvantages of Electric Car Powertrain
- Limited models when compared to hybrids
- Requires special charges
- Charge timings can be long
That is all about the difference between hybrid and electric car powertrain. If you are looking for any of these powertrain cars, go through these used cars for sale in the UAE.
Stay tuned to dubizzle’s car blog for more on different types of vehicles and powertrains.
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