Hybrid Battery Basics
In and around Lombard, Illinois, and all around the world, cars have come a long way. And while they may not be flying, they can be powered by a hybrid car battery today. So, just what is a hybrid car battery? In simple terms, it is a battery pack that contains multiple cells that initiate a massive charge that is necessary to power a hybrid car.
For the longer explanation, hybrid car batteries have two electrodes that sit in an electrolyte solution. A polymer film keeps those electrodes separated to prevent them from short-circuiting. Then, when the hybrid vehicle they are installed in is turned on, it bridges the electrodes.
What is a hybrid car?
A hybrid car combines an electric motor and a gasoline engine. This system allows the car to recapture its energy with regenerative braking. The electric motor does all the work at times, and other times, the gasoline engine does all the work. And other times, they work together, with help from a hybrid car battery.
This hybrid operation burns less gasoline, resulting in better fuel economy. The electric part of the car gives it an added performance boost in certain situations.
How long do batteries last in a hybrid car?
The average lifespan of a Hybrid car battery is between 100,000 and 200,000 miles. The majority of hybrid car manufacturers warranty the battery for up to 100,000 miles or eight years. Some factors can impact the lifespan of a hybrid car battery such as:
- Pushing the limits of the vehicle will put a strain on a hybrid car battery. By practicing gentle acceleration and braking, you can extend the lifespan.
- Extreme temperature changes will minimize the performance and shorten the lifespan of a hybrid car battery. During the summer, it is recommended to park in the shade and during the winter, keeping the car garaged will extend the lifespan of a hybrid car battery.
- Maintaining the manufacturer’s recommended check-up schedule will ensure a longer lifespan of a hybrid car battery.
Can a hybrid car battery run out of power?
Yes, a hybrid car battery can run out of charge. At this point, the gasoline motor takes over and provides the power needed for the car to move. Fortunately, the computer system in hybrid cars does not allow the hybrid car battery to completely drain, preventing it from being damaged.
Can a hybrid car run on gas only?
Hybrid cars have a gas-powered combustion engine and an electric-powered engine. The driving conditions and speed determine the power, so when the car is going at a lower speed, the car operates on a hybrid car battery. The internal computer system sends signals when to give the car gas for acceleration power. There are three types of hybrid cars:
- Full hybrid: This car runs on either one of the power sources or both at the same time. Either way, it recharges the hybrid car battery.
- Mild hybrid: There is an electric motor and hybrid car battery that assists the gas-powered engine, but the hybrid car battery is required, even when powered by gas.
- Plug-in hybrid: This hybrid car has both a gas-powered engine and an electric-powered motor. The onboard hybrid car battery can be recharged at a charging station.
How much does it cost to replace a hybrid car battery?
While a hybrid car can help your fuel economy and the environment with less emission, the cost of a hybrid car battery. This average cost can start around $2,000 and go up to $10,000. The upside to this is most hybrid car owners are ready to trade the car in before the hybrid car battery needs replacing.
Is the cost of a hybrid car battery worthwhile?
When you consider the fact that you’re likely going to trade a hybrid car in on a newer model before the hybrid car battery needs replacing. But, if you aren’t the type to trace a car in, keeping it till ‘wheels fall off’, then yes, replacing a hybrid car battery system is worthwhile.
In Closing
The majority of American car owners are still not 100% convinced about going with electric cars. This is the country of muscle cars and that is most likely never going to disappear. But we should keep in mind the benefits of driving a car with a hybrid car battery:
- Less trips to the gas station
- Less maintenance cost
- Less emissions and air pollution
But there are disadvantages to having a vehicle that depends on a hybrid car battery, such as:
- Long-distance driving can be problematic because a hybrid car battery functions better at speeds under 50 mph. If you’re planning on hitting the highways, you’ll lose some fuel mileage.
- The upfront investment of purchasing a hybrid car battery, which we addressed earlier in this article. However, the fuel efficiency re-coups some of that expense over time, making this a long-term ROI.
Call us now at 630-932-4427 for a new hybrid car battery in Lombard and Wheaton, IL!