Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV)

About Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV)

• A PHEV uses an electric motor and internal combustion engine (ICE), with a rechargeable battery that can be charged externally.
• Working Mechanism:
  • Electric operation: The vehicle generally runs on electric power until the battery is nearly depleted.
  • Engine support: The ICE powers the vehicle when the battery is mostly depleted or during rapid acceleration and intensive heating or cooling.
  • Battery charging: The battery can be charged through an external power source, the ICE, and regenerative braking.
  • Regenerative braking: During braking, the electric motor acts as a generator and sends energy back to the battery.
  • Driving configuration: Some PHEVs allow both the engine and electric motor to drive the wheels, while others use the electric motor to drive the wheels and the engine to generate electricity for the motor.
• Key Components:
  • Auxiliary battery: It supplies electricity for starting the vehicle and powering accessories.
  • DC/DC converter: It converts high-voltage DC power into lower-voltage DC power.
  • Electric generator: It converts energy from the rotating wheels into electricity during braking.
  • Electric traction motor: It provides electric propulsion to the wheels.
  • Internal combustion engine: It is the fuel-powered propulsion system.
  • Onboard charger: It converts incoming AC electricity into DC power for the traction battery.
  • Power electronics controller: It controls the flow of electrical energy to the electric motor.
  • Traction battery pack: It stores electricity for electric propulsion.
  • Transmission: It transfers mechanical power from the engine and/or electric motor to the wheels.
• Key Benefits:
  • Lower running costs: Regular external charging can reduce fuel use and running costs.
  • Reduced range anxiety: The ICE supports longer journeys when the battery is depleted.
  • Transitional technology: PHEVs offer a progression from hybrids towards BEVs.