Two basic types of hybrid configurations are series and parallel. A series hybrid configuration is like a series electrical circuit, i.e., battery positive, light bulb one, light bulb two and battery ground. In a series hybrid layout energy flows from the fuel tank, to the engine, that drives a generator. From the generator power is directed to either the electric motor, battery or both.
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| A series hybrid configuration shows how the engine is used to generate power for the electric motor and charging the battery. Because the engine is connected to the generator it can be operated at full throttle providing the best fuel efficiency. Under many driving conditions it would be shut off and only started when needed to run the generator. |
The end of the hybrid series circuit are the drive wheels of the vehicle. The power bus controller is a computer that determines where power is needed depending on driving conditions. During steady-state driving the engine could be turned off to conserve fuel and only the battery used to power the motor. When acceleration is required, and the battery’s energy is used at a high rate, the engine would be started to recharge the battery and power the electric motor. When the brakes are applied the motor would act like a generator and recharge the battery through regenerative braking. For maximum efficiency, energy for the vehicle will be constantly switched between the battery and on-board fuel. When the vehicle is not in use both energy sources are replenished. The battery charged from a stationary power source and the fuel tank filled.
