Hybrid Lingo

Use this handy guide to learn the ins and outs of hybrid options

Johnson Controls is continually developing new and innovative technologies that provide automotive manufacturers with the most-advanced energy systems available. We are committed to supplying the premium battery systems required to power the hybrid vehicles of today and creating energy storage technology for the electric vehicles of tomorrow.

Several types of hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs) are on the road today, including the micro, mild and full hybrid, which are available for purchase now. The plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) is being developed but is not yet available to consumers. Here is an overview of the types of hybrid technology on the road or being tested:

Micro-hybrids feature unique technology that effectively shuts down the engine when the car is at a stop. These vehicles enjoy a 5 percent to 8 percent fuel savings over conventional vehicles.
Mild hybrids also use engine start-stop technology. Additionally, an electric motor can assist the gas-fueled engine when extra power is required. Overall, the car enjoys fuel savings of as much as 15 percent over conventionally powered automobiles.
Full hybrids function much the same as a mild hybrid, with a much larger battery and motor. This results in greater gas efficiency. Plus, a full hybrid can operate exclusively with electricity at lower speeds, which allows for greater efficiency in heavy traffic. The result: as much as 40 percent savings on fuel.
Plug-in hybrids are full hybrids with greater electrical storage, allowing the vehicle to operate purely on electrical power for long distances. The vehicle must be plugged in to recharge the battery.
Electric vehicles operate on electricity, which can come from batteries, fuel cells or a generator. This allows the design of the car’s drive train to remain the same while the fuel source can be changed.
Fuel cell vehicles combine hydrogen with oxygen to produce electricity. The electricity then powers the electric motor, which in turn propels the vehicle. It has no internal combustion engine and has full gas hybrid functionality.

All these are a taste of what will increasingly become more commonplace as hybrid technology becomes more widely accepted throughout the world.