| How do hybrid cars work? |
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Today's hybrid cars combine the benefits of gasoline or diesel engines and electric motors and can be configured to obtain different objectives, such as improved fuel economy and increased power. Computer electronics decide when to use the electric motor and or the engine and also when to store electricity. The electric motor is used primarily at low speeds and when needed to boost power, for example, acceleration or hill climbing. If the batteries fall below a certain level, the gas engine will automatically turn on to charge the batteries and run the electric motor. With the assistance of the electric motor, the gasoline or diesel engines are typically smaller, therefore more fuel efficient.
Regenerative Braking: The electric motor applies resistance to the drive train causing the car to slow. The energy from the wheels turns the motor, which functions as a generator and transfers that energy to the batteries until needed.
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