Current hybrid technologies are split between to thinkologies at the current time. The most popular technology used at the moment is the HEV, or hybrid electrical vehicle. This particular method uses a standard internal combustion engine (ICE) along with a rechargeable energy storage system also known as an RESS. Unlike some of the other hybrid models, this one is more known for charging its battery while on the road. It does this by charging while the ICE is in motion and is currently being used. The battery is used when it is not required to run, such as at a stop sign, stop light or some other idle state. This provides greater efficiency for the automobile.
As far as current hybrid technologies go, the HEV is known for increasing the amount of mileage that can effectively seen used by one gallon of gas. Generally, this amount can range between 40 to 50 miles per gallon depending on the automobile it is installed on. Some SUVs and trucks that have been or will be released will also see an increase although not in the same range. The increase in miles per gallon will be noticeable in comparison if it had not been built as a hybrid.
Another current hybrid technology that is pretty popular is the plug-in hybrid electric vehicle which is also known as a PHEV is a hybrid vehicle with batteries. These batteries can be recharged by connecting a plug to an electric power source. The vehicle shares the characteristics of both traditional hybrid electric vehicles, having an electric motor and a internal combustion engine, and of battery electric vehicles, also having a plug to connect to the electric grid. There is more dependence on this vehicle with the batteries compared to the HEV. Batteries can be charged outside the vehicle and plugged into the hybrid when they are needed.
While PHEV hybrid vehicles have been tested through the last several years as part of the current hybrid technologies, you can expect many of them to go into production. Some of the models that we’ll see this year include the Saturn Vue, the Volkswagen Golf, the Chevrolet Volt and several other car makers have cars on the line. One of the incentives that the Federal Government has in store this year, is a possible $7,500 tax credit on line against federal taxes when you purchase one of the PHEV hybrid vehicles.
Look for an increase in PHEV production as the Obama Administration and the Department of Energy are scheduled to offer $1.5 billion in grants to US based manufacturers to produced highly efficient batteries that are used in Plug-In Hybrid vehicles. The grants will cover the batteries and their components.