HOW TOYOTA HYBRID ELECTRIC AND PLUG-IN HYBRID ELECTRIC VEHICLES WORK

 Toyota Hybrid Electric Vehicles (HEVs) combine gas engines with electric motors to generate electricity as you drive. While your vehicle is in motion, Toyota's Hybrid Synergy Drive seamlessly, and automatically, chooses the optimal source and blend of motive power. And because the system recharges as you drive, you never need to plug-in the hybrid electric vehicle.

STARTING UP

In most conditions, only the electric motor is engaged, saving fuel and delivering instant torque with minimal emissions.

ACCELERATING AND CRUISING

The gas engine and electric motor team up to provide the ideal mix of power for seamless acceleration. Excess energy is used to help recharge the battery.

DECELERATING AND BRAKING

The electric motor takes over. The regenerative braking system converts braking energy into electric energy to help recharge the battery onboard the vehicle.

RESTING AND REVERSING 

When stopped, the gas engine shuts down to conserve fuel -- unless the battery is running low. When reversing at low speed, only the electric motor is required.

Toyota plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) operate much the same way as regular Toyota hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs).  However, they can also be optionally plugged in - enabling you to extend your electric-only driving range. RAV4 Prime and Prius Prime are great examples of PHEV technology.

Learn More about Toyota Hybrid