Are all Hybrid systems basically the same?
-
I see that Toyota, Hyundai, and Honda all have full-hybrid systems. Are they all basically the same concept?
No, there are basically 3 types of full-hybrids. The Toyota system is known as Power-Split where the “transmission” contains 2 electric motors (that are also operable as generators) that are connected to each other and the gasoline engine’s output by differential gears. This transmission has not clutches or shifting mechanisms. All of the variability in overall gear ratio between the engine and the wheels is controlled by the power controller that varies what each electric motor/generator does. This system also controls whether the the electric motors add power to the output of the gasoline engine or take power to charge the batteries.
The Hyundai and VW/Audi systems are the popular “P2” systems which are simply adding a large electric motor between the engine and the gearbox. This motor is in place of the engine flywheel and can be de-clutched from either the engine (to drive the car electrically) or from the engine (to regeneratively charge the batteries on deceleration.
The Honda system is unique. The transmission has an electric generator that is connected to the gasoline engine a motor/generator that is connected to the transmission output. At low to moderate speeds, only the output electric motor drives the car and the power comes from the battery. The battery can be charged by the other generator or form the motor generator on decels. In this mode the car is a series hybrid; no direct connection between the engine and the drive axles. Above roughly 40 MPH, their is a clutch that can lock-up and connect the engine directly to the final drive with an overall gear ratio equivalent to top-gear. In this mode the wheels can be driven by any combination of engine power and electric power. Here is a schematic: https://www.caranddriver.com/features/a15114066/explaining-the-honda-accords-shrewdly-designed-new-hybrid-system-tech-dept/
- You must be logged in to reply to this topic.