Summary
- Mild hybrid vehicles offer a seamless transition for those hesitant to switch from gasoline vehicles to electric vehicles, providing a similar driving experience while still incorporating a motor.
- Mild hybrid vehicles have smaller batteries and less powerful motors compared to full hybrid vehicles, relying on the engine for propulsion and unable to offer an all-electric range.
- Mild hybrid vehicles are more affordable than electric and full hybrid vehicles, making them a budget-friendly option for those looking to save on fuel costs while still enjoying some of the benefits of hybrid technology.
The automotive industry is rapidly transitioning from gasoline-powered vehicles to hybrid, plug-in hybrid, or electric vehicles. This shift is driven by various factors such as environmental consciousness, changing trends, and more. With recent technological advancements, motor-operated vehicles have gained impressive speeds and power, becoming a reality sooner than expected. Electric vehicles (EVs) and hybrid vehicles now outperform gasoline vehicles in various aspects.
While hybrid and plug-in hybrid vehicles were introduced to facilitate a seamless transition from petrol and diesel vehicles to electric vehicles, not many people are aware of mild hybrid vehicles. Mild hybrid technology was introduced by Toyota in 2001 and offers a unique driving experience. Here are 10 lesser-known facts about mild hybrid vehicles:
1 Not Too Different From Pure ICE Cars
Mild hybrid vehicles provide an ideal transition for those finding it difficult to switch from gasoline vehicles to motor-operated vehicles. While they have a motor attached to the engine, the driving experience remains similar to traditional gasoline vehicles.
2 Boasts Smaller Battery And Less Powerful Motors Compared To Full Hybrid Vehicles
Mild hybrid vehicles have smaller batteries and less powerful motors compared to full hybrid vehicles. They rely on the engine for propulsion and cannot operate solely on electric power.
3 No “All-electric Range”
Mild hybrid vehicles do not offer an all-electric range. While they provide better fuel economy and lower CO2 emissions compared to gasoline vehicles, they still rely on the engine for propulsion.
4 Cheaper Than Full Hybrids
Mild hybrid vehicles are more affordable than electric and full hybrid vehicles. This makes them a budget-friendly option for those looking to save on fuel costs while still enjoying some of the benefits of hybrid technology.
5 Fuel Efficiency Cannot Match That Of Full Hybrids
Mild hybrid vehicles cannot match the fuel efficiency of full hybrid vehicles. Full hybrids have larger batteries and can rely more on electric power for propulsion, resulting in better fuel economy.
6 Mild Hybrid Vehicles Are “Low Emission”; Not “Zero Emission”
Mild hybrid vehicles are considered low emission vehicles, but they are not zero-emission vehicles. Unlike full hybrids and plug-in hybrids, mild hybrids cannot run entirely on electric power and still produce emissions.
7 Regenerative Braking Is Nearly Non-Existent
Mild hybrid vehicles have limited regenerative braking capabilities. The smaller batteries in mild hybrids cannot store as much energy from regenerative braking as full hybrids or plug-in hybrids.
8 There Are More MHEVs Around Than We Realize
Mild hybrid vehicles are more popular than many people realize. Renowned brands like BMW, Volvo, Chevy, Honda, and General Motors have mild hybrid vehicles in their lineup. Many Ram trucks, Jeep SUVs, and Audi, Mercedes-Benz, and Volvo models also feature mild hybrid technology.
9 There Is No “Plug-in” Mild Hybrid
Mild hybrid vehicles do not have a plug-in feature. The smaller battery and auxiliary function of mild hybrids do not support plug-in capabilities.
10 Has The Unique Start-Stop Feature
Mild hybrid vehicles often have an automatic start-stop feature. This means the engine automatically shuts off when the vehicle is stopped to save fuel, and restarts when it’s time to move again. This feature contributes to fuel savings over time.
