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Honda has been a pioneer in the field of hybrid technology and fuel efficiency, introducing the concept of the modern hybrid vehicle. The first Honda Insight debuted in 1999 and is credited as the first hybrid vehicle in North America. Since then, other companies have attempted to emulate the benchmarks established by Honda.
Are you curious how Honda’s advanced hybrid models achieve impressive fuel economy? Spitzer Honda DuBois has put together a helpful guide to give you a deeper understanding of how Honda hybrid vehicles operate and their significant advantages and ownership benefits.
Twin-Motor Hybrid Powertrain – The Twin-Motor Hybrid Powertrain is used in models like the Honda Accord Hybrid and CR-V Hybrid, and it comes with unique features that contribute to excellent fuel efficiency. This advanced system comprises a strong drive motor, a motor/generator, and a lithium-ion (Li-Ion) battery pack. The gasoline engine has three primary functions: powering the generator to supply electricity for the drive motor, directly powering the front wheels, and charging the battery pack.
Conversely, the motor/generator primarily acts as a motor to start the engine and functions as a powerful generator the rest of the time. While the traditional gasoline engine operates, the generator spins and replenishes the battery for future use.
Regenerative Braking – Honda hybrid models incorporate an advanced technology called regenerative braking, which aims to capture energy lost during braking and store it in the battery for future use. This process starts when the accelerator is released, not just when the brake pedal is pressed.
Lightweight Battery – Honda hybrid models differentiate themselves from other hybrids by preserving interior space and comfort, thanks to the meticulous efforts of Honda engineers in optimizing battery positioning. They have improved handling through a lower center of gravity and maximized interior space by placing the battery low beneath the floor. A sophisticated air-cooled system ensures that battery temperatures remain low, thereby maintaining high battery efficiency.
High Resale Value – The increase in hybrid popularity has led to many drivers switching to hybrids. Additionally, many hybrid owners notice higher resale value due to the rising demand for hybrid models.
Exceptional Fuel Economy – Owning a hybrid offers the clear advantage of reducing fuel costs, as these vehicles consume significantly less gas, particularly in urban areas, resulting in substantial savings compared to traditional gasoline-powered cars.
Cleaner Emissions – Driving a hybrid can benefit more than just your wallet. Hybrid vehicles contribute to a cleaner environment by emitting significantly fewer carbon emissions than gas-powered models. As hybrid vehicle popularity increases, we can all experience improved air quality due to reduced emissions.
Tax Incentives – Owning a hybrid car also benefits from being eligible for tax credits and incentives from the U.S. government. Certain owners may receive a tax credit of up to $7,500 through federal tax credit programs as a reward for buying a fuel-efficient vehicle[3]. Additional incentives may also be available at the state level, depending on your state.
Warranty – 8-year / 100,000-mile warranty on major hybrid components.
Quicker Response – Two motor powertrain provides quick starts & energetic response. This makes the hybrid a lot more fun for most drivers to drive.
How do you charge a hybrid vehicle?
For all Honda hybrid vehicles, drive as usual and keep gas in the tank to keep the battery charged. It’s a common misconception that hybrids must be plugged in for the battery to work. However, plug-in electric vehicles are powered by a battery only, while the Honda hybrids run off of a two-motor engine with electric and gas powertrains.
The battery recharges in two ways:
Honda’s two-motor hybrids provide excellent fuel economy and low emissions without worrying about when and where to “plug in”, as you would with an electric or plug-in electric vehicle.
Do hybrid vehicles cost more to maintain?
A hybrid should be no more expensive to maintain than a traditional gas-powered vehicle. In fact, the electric motor can take some strain off the gasoline-powered motor, extending the life of the engine and its parts. Not to mention that fuel savings can offset or even outweigh repairs and maintenance costs over time.
Hybrid batteries do, however, cost more than conventional car batteries. A conventional battery can be replaced for less than $100, whereas a hybrid battery can run a couple of thousand dollars to replace. Despite this eventual repair cost, drivers should know that hybrid batteries usually last between 100,000-200,000 miles before needing replacement, and Honda’s warranty covers all major Honda Hybrid Components (including the battery) for 8 years or 100,000 miles.
Can hybrids accelerate as quickly as conventional, gas vehicles?
The dual-motor design gives Honda hybrids both impressive horsepower and torque. So, whether you want to drive conservatively to maximize fuel economy, or punch through every stoplight and intersection…the choice is yours in a Honda Hybrid.
Why are hybrids priced higher than non-hybrid models?
A two-motor hybrid vehicle does cost slightly more than a conventional gasoline motor. The slight price difference is because hybrids have a gas motor AND an electric motor, a battery storage system, and additional systems to generate and reclaim energy for the battery. Hybrids also require additional systems to manage and operate all these extra parts and various drive modes.
Ready to become a hybrid owner? Stop by Spitzer Honda DuBois today, and test drive one of our Honda hybrid vehicles today.
