Why are all modern hybrid and plug in hybrid cars paired with gas engines rather than diesel engines? The diesel and hybrid pair seem like a great idea in theory.

Question

A lot of people see hybrids and plug in hybrids as a great middle ground between ICE and EV, so why not make a diesel hybrid. They can be used in a variety of vehicles, and can reduce the nox and particulate emissions diesels are known for. So why isn’t there a modern diesel hybrid being produced, at least as a passenger car?

In: Engineering

Answer 1

Look up Edison motors on YouTube. They are prototyping a diesel electric semi truck right now with plans on a pickup version.

As to your question: I believe most consumer hybrids use the “fuel” engine all the time with electric support. So the engine has to operate efficiently over a wide band which as stated in other parts of this post is less gooder with a diesel engine. I think if they went with full electric drive and a built on generator it would be considerably better. My 2 cents though.