Hybrid cars use a petrol or diesel engine alongside an electric motor and battery to power the vehicle. These power sources can work independently or together, depending on driving conditions.

Unlike fully electric cars, many hybrids self-charge as you drive—either through regenerative braking or by using the engine to generate power. Some hybrids also allow you to select different driving modes, optimising performance for city driving, motorways, or fuel saving.

A hybrid engine seamlessly combines petrol power with electric efficiency, automatically switching between the two to optimise performance and fuel economy. Here’s how each key component plays a role:

The petrol engine provides primary power when driving at higher speeds or when extra power is needed. It works alongside the electric motor to ensure a smooth and efficient drive.

The electric motor powers the car at lower speeds and provides extra acceleration when needed. It works in sync with the engine, reducing fuel use while delivering a responsive driving experience.

The battery stores electrical energy to power the motor. Unlike fully electric cars, hybrid batteries self-charge while driving, using energy from the engine and regenerative braking—so there’s no need to plug in.

At lower speeds, hybrid cars often rely on electric power alone. This allows for near-silent operation while reducing fuel use. The petrol engine stays off until extra power is needed, making hybrids ideal for city driving and stop-start traffic.

When you press the accelerator, the electric motor provides an instant boost, delivering smooth and responsive acceleration. And because there’s no traditional gear system to move through, power is delivered seamlessly. The petrol engine steps in when higher speeds or extra power are needed, creating a balanced and efficient drive.

At steady speeds, hybrid cars work differently to conventional vehicles. Instead of relying solely on the petrol engine, the hybrid system can switch between power sources or use both at once. On motorways, the engine often takes the lead, but the electric motor may step in to support when needed —reducing engine load and helping to improve overall fuel use— supporting a smoother and potentially more cost-efficient drive.

Hybrid cars use regenerative braking instead of traditional braking to capture energy that would otherwise be lost when slowing down. This energy is converted into electricity and stored in the battery, helping to improve energy recovery and reduce wear on the braking system.

At traffic lights or when stationary, hybrids automatically switch off the petrol engine to save fuel. Essential systems, like air conditioning and infotainment, continue running on battery power. As soon as you press the accelerator, the engine restarts seamlessly, ensuring a smooth transition back to driving.

Hybrid technology works behind the scenes to make every journey more efficient. Whether driving in the city or on the open road, the system continuously adapts for a smarter, more economical drive.