are hybrid vehicles electric
Hybrid vehicles represent a significant advancement in automotive technology, combining both electric and conventional fuel-powered systems. These vehicles integrate an electric motor with a gasoline engine, creating a dual powertrain system that maximizes efficiency and reduces environmental impact. Modern hybrid vehicles utilize sophisticated energy management systems that seamlessly switch between electric and gasoline power, or combine both, depending on driving conditions. The electric components typically include a high-voltage battery pack, electric motor, and regenerative braking system, which captures energy normally lost during braking and converts it back into electricity. The gasoline engine works in conjunction with these electric components, either providing direct power to the wheels or generating electricity to charge the battery. This innovative combination allows hybrid vehicles to achieve significantly better fuel economy than conventional vehicles, particularly in city driving conditions where stop-and-start traffic is common. The technology has evolved to include different types of hybrid systems, from mild hybrids that provide minimal electric assistance to plug-in hybrids that can operate solely on electric power for extended periods.