Module-1 Introduction
Module-1 Introduction
Introduction to conventional and electric vehicles, need for hybrid vehicles (societal and
environmental impacts), challenges of hybrid vehicles, comparison of conventional, hybrid, and
electric vehicles, degrees of hybridization (Micro, Mild, Full, and Plug-in hybrids), overview of
hybrid vehicle architectures (Series, Parallel, and Series-Parallel configurations).
Conventional Vehicles:
Powered by internal combustion engines (ICEs) using fossil fuels like petrol or diesel.
Characteristics:
o High emissions of greenhouse gases (CO2, NOx) and air pollutants.
o Depend on finite fossil fuel resources.
o Lower manufacturing costs and widespread infrastructure.
Disadvantages:
Less balanced weight distribution, leading to understeer.
Limited high-performance capabilities compared to RWD or AWD.
Examples:
Toyota Camry
Honda Civic
Volkswagen Golf
Hyundai Elantra
Disadvantages:
More complex and expensive to manufacture.
Rear wheels can slide out (oversteer) under aggressive driving.
Examples:
BMW 3 Series
Ford Mustang
Mercedes-Benz C-Class
Chevrolet Camaro
Disadvantages:
More expensive to maintain and repair.
Reduced fuel efficiency due to added weight and drivetrain complexity.
Not necessary for all driving conditions, making it inefficient in dry climates.
Examples:
Audi Quattro models (AWD)
Jeep Wrangler (4WD)
Toyota Land Cruiser (4WD)
Disadvantages:
More expensive and complex to manufacture.
Limited interior and cargo space.
Examples:
Ferrari 488
Lamborghini Huracán
Porsche Cayman
McLaren 720S
5. Rear-Engine, Rear-Wheel Drive (RR)
Rare layout, mostly used in specific sports cars and compact city cars
Characteristics:
Engine is placed behind the rear axle.
Mostly used for compact cars and performance vehicles.
Advantages:
Excellent rear traction and acceleration.
Simple drivetrain with fewer mechanical losses.
Allows for a very compact front-end design.
Disadvantages:
High tendency for oversteer due to weight at the back.
Can be challenging to handle at high speeds.
Limited engine size and placement constraints.
Examples:
Porsche 911
Tata Nano
Renault Twingo
1. Battery Pack – The primary energy source, usually mounted in the floor (lowering the center
of gravity).
2. Electric Motor(s) – Can be positioned at the front, rear, or both axles for various drivetrain
configurations.
3. Inverter & Power Electronics – Converts battery DC power to AC for the motor.
4. Regenerative Braking System – Captures kinetic energy to recharge the battery.
5. Charging Port & Onboard Charger – Allows external charging through AC or DC power
sources.
Feature Micro Mild Hybrid Full Hybrid Plug-in Hybrid Range Extender
Hybrid (MHEV) (FHEV) (PHEV) (REEV)
Electric No No Yes (Short Yes (Longer Yes (Mostly
Drive? Distances) Distances) EV)
Battery Size Small Medium (48V) Large (100V+) Very Large Very Large
(12V) (300V+) (300V+)
Fuel Savings 5-10% 10-15% 25-40% 40-60% 50-70%
Charging No No No Yes (Plug-in) Yes (Plug-in)
Needed?
Societal Impacts:
1. Improved Fuel Efficiency:
o Reduced fuel consumption compared to conventional vehicles.
2. Energy Security:
o Decreased reliance on imported fossil fuels.
3. Noise Reduction:
o Quieter operation, especially in urban areas.
Environmental Impacts:
1. Reduced Emissions:
o Hybrid vehicles emit less CO2 and other pollutants compared to conventional
vehicles.
2. Transition Technology:
o Acts as a stepping stone toward full electrification.
3. Sustainable Mobility:
o Reduced strain on fossil fuels and mitigates urban air pollution.
6. Overview of Hybrid Vehicle Architectures
1. Series Hybrid:
o Configuration: The electric motor drives the wheels, and the ICE acts only as a
generator to charge the battery.
o Advantages: High efficiency in stop-and-go traffic.
o Disadvantages: Less efficient at high speeds.
o Example: Chevrolet Volt.
2. Parallel Hybrid:
o Configuration: Both the ICE and electric motor are connected to the drivetrain, and
either can power the wheels.
o Advantages: Efficient for highway driving and urban conditions.
o Disadvantages: More complex design.
o Example: Honda Insight.
3. Series-Parallel Hybrid:
o Configuration: Combines features of series and parallel systems, allowing the
vehicle to switch between them as needed.
o Advantages: Most efficient and versatile design.
o Disadvantages: Most complex and expensive to produce.
o Example: Toyota Hybrid Synergy Drive (Toyota Prius).
Challenges of Hybrid Vehicles
1. High Initial Costs:
o Expensive components like batteries and electric motors increase the price.
2. Complex Technology:
o Integration of ICE and electric systems makes hybrids mechanically and
electronically complex.
3. Battery Lifespan:
o Limited battery life results in replacement costs and environmental concerns.
4. Limited Electric Range:
o Fully electric driving is restricted in most hybrids, unlike EVs.
5. Infrastructure Requirements:
o Plug-in hybrids (PHEVs) require charging infrastructure similar to EVs.