Hybrid is not new technolody to Toyota. The Hybrid Technology has been in use for over 20 years in Toyota models. Now years later there are more more "hybrid" models becoming available from other manufacturers and we are being asked by customers what the difference is between a Hybrid and a Mild Hybrid.
Over the last few months there has been a lot of noise in the motor industry about Mild Hybrid cars, which is adding to the overall confusion that new car buyers are facing. Toyota Ireland, which is the leader in self-charging hybrid (full hybrid), has set out to dispel the myths and provide clarity for new car buyers regarding the differences between full self-charging hybrids and mild hybrids.
In essence a mild hybrid is simply a conventional petrol or diesel engine with a low voltage (48V) battery and an electric motor which is typically used to power electric components such as air conditioning and the radio. At low engine speeds, they can supplement the engine with a small electric boost during acceleration, but unlike full hybrids, the electric motor cannot power the car on its own, and they cannot drive in zero-emissions mode.
Put simply, for those who want to experience electrified driving without having to plug-in their car, a full hybrid is the only option. While a full hybrid can drive on battery power alone and operate in fuel efficient, zero emissions mode up to 62% of the time on average (due to its powerful battery), a mild hybrid cannot drive on pure battery alone and therefore delivers considerably fewer benefits than a full hybrid.
So what are the main differences?
Here are a couple of videos to explain in more detail:
Toyota’s self-charging hybrid batteries are powerful enough to drive at moderate speeds (60 KM per hour) in pure EV mode, while a mild hybrid does not have a dedicated EV mode. This, in turn, delivers multiple benefits around C02 and fuel savings over a mild hybrid.
In terms of impacts to customers, while the 48V battery in a mild hybrid can deliver a small torque boost at low rpm, it also adds considerable weight so there is no perceptible gain in power versus a conventional car. Most mild hybrids have a manual transmission, and the driving experience is identical to that of a conventional car.
In comparison, Toyota hybrids are all automatic, making for a smoother, more relaxed drive.
Still have questions like what’s the difference between a full and mild Hybrid? Give us a call 021-4858300.