What Makes Hybrid Cars So Efficient?

Yael: You know, Don, maybe you just need to trust that hybrid cars are interesting enough on their own. I mean, did you know that some hybrids rely on a process known as regenerative braking to recharge their batteries. You see, when you brake, you remove energy from your car, which normally just dissipates in the form of heat. In some hybrids, though, the electric motor is used to slow down the car, at which time it also acts as a generator so it can divert some of that energy back to the batteries. And did you know? In hybrids, instead of idling, the gas engine turns itself off, and you get power from the electric motor and batteries. Also, hybrid cars’ aerodynamic design and special tires reduce both air drag and drag against pavement, which also increases efficiency.