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Tech: How do Hybrid & Plug-in Hybrid Batteries Recharge? Do I Need to Plug a Hybrid In?

Clean Fleet Report

When the first gasoline-electric hybrids vehicles began arriving in 1999 and 2000, early adopters did their research and were quite knowledgeable about the then-new and revolutionary transportation mode. But the mass market was confused; these new cars had an additional battery to provide electricity to an electric motor.

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Feature: Are Eco-Friendly Cars Expensive to Own?

Clean Fleet Report

They found that hybrid and alternative fuel vehicles (especially electric cars) easily saved their owners money when looking at the purchase price, fuel costs and regular maintenance. The motors that electric vehicles use have fewer moving parts than their gasoline-powered counterparts and don’t require oil changes.

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3D self-assembling nanostructure for cathodes enables very rapid charge and discharge without sacrificing capacity; potential for EVs

Green Car Congress

Researchers at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign have developed a self-assembling three-dimensional nanostructure for battery cathodes (Li-ion and NiMH) that allows for faster charging and discharging without sacrificing energy storage capacity. Battery life and recharging time are major limitations of electric vehicles.

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Hyundai Debuts Sonata Hybrid at New York Show

Green Car Congress

liter Theta II engine (169 hp/126 kW at 6,000 rpm and 156 lb-ft/212 N·m of torque at 4,500 rpm); a 6-speed automatic transmission; a 30 kW (151 lb-ft/205 N·m) electric motor; and a lithium-polymer battery pack. Hyundai’s Hybrid Blue Drive has an all-electric mode and a parallel drive mode. 30kW, 151 lb-ft electric motor.

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Toyota introducing Corolla Hybrid to US at LA Auto Show; at least 50 mpg

Green Car Congress

liter four-cylinder gasoline engine with two motor/generators through an electronically controlled planetary-type continuously variable transmission (CVT) transaxle. The Atkinson cycle extracts more energy from the fuel, and the electric motors compensate for reduced low-end power (versus the Otto cycle). Driving the Corolla Hybrid.

MPG 306
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Lexus unveils new UX crossover with new hybrid system; first use of GA-C; new TNGA powertrain elements

Green Car Congress

liter gasoline engine that reaps the performance and fuel economy benefits of high thermal efficiency; and a new mid-power, fourth-generation self-charging hybrid system. An Electric Power Steering system with a new compact and highly rigid column assist has been adopted for the UX, with a larger diameter column shaft.

Lexus 262
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Toyota to Lease More Than 150 Experimental Li-Ion PHEVs in Europe

Green Car Congress

Based on Toyota’s full hybrid technology, the new PHV will come equipped with a lithium-ion battery, extending the vehicle’s range in electric vehicle mode. It offers a low carbon transport solution for customers wanting to drive longer distances using electricity, while still experiencing the traditional benefits of a full hybrid.

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