Regenerative braking: Hybrid cars use regenerative braking to capture energy that would otherwise be lost during braking. As the car slows down, the electric motor acts as a generator and converts the kinetic energy of the car's motion into electrical energy. This energy is then stored in the car's battery and can be used to power the electric motor while driving.
Electric-only mode: Most hybrid cars can operate in electric-only mode at low speeds and over short distances. In these situations, the car relies solely on its electric motor and battery for propulsion, without using any gasoline.
Engine assistance: The electric motor in a hybrid car can assist the gasoline engine during acceleration and at higher speeds. This extra power helps reduce the load on the gasoline engine, allowing it to operate more efficiently.
Overall, the combination of regenerative braking, electric-only mode, and engine assistance in hybrid cars contributes to improved fuel efficiency and lower fuel consumption compared to gasoline-powered cars. While the exact fuel savings can vary depending on factors such as the specific vehicle model, driving conditions, and driving habits, hybrid cars often provide significantly better fuel economy.
