Hybrid technology is becoming more and more popular in today’s world. This technology is particularly applied in cars and other motor vehicles. A hybrid vehicle is one that employs at least two power sources for propulsion: gasoline power and electric power in the form of internal combustion engines and batteries.
The advent of hybrid technology was possible because inventors sought a different way to make motor vehicles run. Since a large number of motor vehicles run on fossil fuels whose emissions are harmful to the environment, innovators began their research and development of alternative eco-friendly power sources.
The Porsche was the first hybrid car in 1900 when it was tested and run using electricity and supported by a combustion engine. Since then, electric cars have been manufactured as sustainable vehicles, albeit in limited quantities. However, the internal combustion engine is still considered as the best power system available because of high energy content. Moreover, it is easier to use and less expensive than batteries because petroleum fuel is more readily available.
This hybrid technology essay acknowledges the fact that electric cars are making something of a comeback in the form of hybrid vehicles. Hybrids are becoming popular since more and more manufacturers and consumers are concerned about both fuel efficiency and preserving the environment. Fortunately, these kinds of vehicles have reduced carbon emissions and are highly sustainable.
The two makes of hybrid cars that are presently available in the market are the Honda Insight and the Toyota Prius. The Prius has both an electric motor and a gasoline engine. The power sources may be used separately as conditions require, though they may also be used simultaneously. The Prius was developed as an answer to the demand for a fuel-efficient car in Japan in 1997. It was introduced to the US market three years later.
On the other hand, Honda introduced the Insight in 1999. Other manufacturers such as General Motors, Woods Motor Company, and Audi have introduced their own experimental hybrid vehicles and development is still being continued.
Hybrid technology is a big step towards protecting the environment and preventing further damage to it. It is a well-known fact that carbon emissions from vehicles contribute to the problem of global warming. Hybrid vehicles help reduce the damage by using rechargeable batteries as an alternative. Until fully-electronic cars become available in large numbers, people can rely on hybrid cars to help preserve nature.