A strong hybrid electric vehicle (HEV), also known as a full hybrid, is a type of hybrid vehicle that incorporates all basic hybrid functionalities and can operate solely on electric power for short periods, typically around 1 mile.
Here's a breakdown of what defines a strong HEV:
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Idle Start-Stop: The engine automatically shuts off when the vehicle is stopped to conserve fuel and reduce emissions, restarting seamlessly when needed.
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Regenerative Braking: Kinetic energy generated during braking is captured and converted into electricity, which is then stored in the battery. This energy is used to power the electric motor and reduce wear on the braking system.
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Engine Power-Assist: The electric motor assists the gasoline engine, providing extra power during acceleration and reducing the engine's workload, thus improving fuel efficiency.
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Electric-Only Operation: A strong HEV can drive solely on electric power for a limited range and speed. This is useful for low-speed driving in urban environments, further reducing emissions and fuel consumption. The distance possible purely on electric power varies between models, but is "usually around 1 mile."
Essentially, a strong HEV offers a more significant level of electrification than a mild HEV, allowing for greater fuel economy and lower emissions due to its ability to operate in electric-only mode.
