3. Series Hybrids

3.1 Principle

In this type of hybrid (figure 19 ), the internal combustion engine is combined with an electric generator to act as a power unit, converting the energy generated by combustion into electrical energy. Combined with the energy supplied by the battery, this energy is then used by the electric motor, which propels the vehicle on its own. There is therefore no mechanical link between the combustion engine and the wheels. Multiple energy conversions (thermal ⇒ mechanical ⇒ electrical ⇒ mechanical) penalize the maximum efficiency of this thermal-electric powertrain.