5. Parallel hybrids

5.1 Principle

In this type of hybrid, the combustion engine is mainly used to move the vehicle. Combined with a conventional transmission, it is powered by an electric motor that draws energy from the batteries (figure 25 ). Kinetic energy recovery during the vehicle's deceleration and braking phases recharges the batteries. Driving in electric mode mainly corresponds to situations where the internal combustion engine is not very efficient, i.e. when the load is low. This architecture temporarily enables 100% electric operation.