I recently learned that train engines have been using electric motors powered by diesel generators since at least the 30’s, which surprised me. It made me wonder why cars or at least trucks and busses don’t do something similar, and why “parallel” hybrids are the only type of hybrid engine widely available.
I assume it has to do with the size difference, but what specifically? Needs to carry too much liquid fuel? Generator or electronics can’t be miniaturized? Or is it a purely economic problem and not a technological one?
In: Engineering
Are you referring to a configuration where the gas engine exists only to charge the batteries and never transfers torque to the drive wheels? A few cars actually have used that style of hybrid. The Fisker Karma was one. I might be wrong, but I think the Chevy Volt is another.
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