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#Hybrid (Hybrid Vehicle)
A hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) combines an engine that runs on gasoline or other combustion with a motor that runs on electricity. The efficient use of the two power sources results in higher environmental performance and real fuel economy compared to conventional engine vehicles. HEV systems also contribute to CO2 reduction, an important issue in a society moving toward carbon neutrality. There are more HEVs than any other electrified vehicles, including electric vehicles (EVs). Honda Stories provides information on Honda’s efforts toward carbon neutrality, the development process of hybrid vehicles, and interviews with developers.
In 1999, Honda launched the INSIGHT, its first hybrid vehicle. Now, Honda’s e:HEV hybrid system, which powers various models ranging from Freed to Fit, Vezel, Civic, and Accord, uses a motor to drive the entire range from low to high speeds. During deceleration and on downhill slopes, kinetic energy is converted into electrical energy and stored in the battery, which can be used to drive the car solely by motor for take-off and urban driving. When cruising at high speeds, the car is driven solely by the engine.
Honda believes that in the long term, battery EVs are the most effective solution for small mobility while moving toward carbon neutrality. However, during this current transition period to EVs, Honda aims to further evolve and deliver its HEV models to many customers.