Hybrid cars combine a traditional petrol engine with an electric motor to deliver improved fuel efficiency and lower emissions. The key to their success is the ability to switch between petrol power, electric power, or a combination of both, depending on driving conditions.
In most hybrids, the electric motor assists the petrol engine during acceleration or low-speed driving, reducing fuel consumption. Regenerative braking captures energy usually lost during braking and stores it in the battery for later use. The onboard computer system manages power flow to optimise efficiency without driver input.
In the UK, hybrids are popular for city and motorway driving because they reduce fuel costs and emissions — helping drivers meet stricter environmental regulations. However, they require specialised servicing and diagnostics, especially for battery health and hybrid system components.
If you want to keep your hybrid running smoothly, it’s crucial to understand its technology and get it serviced by a hybrid specialist.