As we've learned before, hybrid cars come as full hybrids, mild hybrids, plug-in hybrids (PHEVs), and range extenders (REXs). And whichever acronym they come in, they all use batteries and electric motors to deliver lower CO2 emissions and increased fuel economy. 

But the manner they use the two power plants are different — and for mild hybrid systems, they work in a really unique way.

What is a mild hybrid, anyway? 

Like a full hybrid, a mild hybrid uses an electric motor alongside a combustion engine — but the two electric power source can't be used independently. Instead, the small electric motor is there to only assist the engine. 

Mild hybrids are said to offer a simpler powertrain that translates to modest power and efficiency gains.

Using a belt alternator starter, the mild hybrid system feeds energy to the batteries through the energy gained when the car decelerates or brakes.

Formula 1 cars can be considered as mild hybrids. These cars use their energy recovery systems that capture and store kinetic energy from braking, and that energy is then harnessed as electrical energy to augment the power of the gasoline-powered engine.

Mild hybrid vehicles in the Philippines

There are mild hybrid vehicles in the Philippines in various sizes and styles. 

The Geely Okavango is powered by a combination of a 1.5-liter three-cylinder turbo engine and a 48-volt electric motor, in order to generate 190hp and 300Nm of torque. This Geely's e-motor assists the gas engine to the tune of an (estimated) 15 to 20kpl, and with the help of a seven-speed dual clutch transmission. 

Vehicles in the Volvo Boost Hybrid range are powered by a four-cylinder turbocharged gasoline engine, 48-volt battery, and Integrated Starter Generator (ISG).

The gas engine produces 313hp and 460Nm of torque, while the battery and ISG support the combustion engine for reduced fuel consumption and tailpipe emissions. The battery receives charge through recovered braking energy. 

Mazda M Hybrid cars use an ISG, too, which captures energy normally wasted during braking. 

Instead of the power being unused, the kinetic energy is stored as electric energy in the battery. The energy is then used to start the engine from idling stop and power the car's electrical components. This stored energy eases the engine's load and then improves fuel efficiency and reduces carbon dioxide emissions. 

Like the other mild hybrid vehicles, the Mazda M Hybrid cars' battery charges while the cars are driven. But when they slow down, it never takes power away from the engine.

Not only does mild hybrid cars ensure a greener way of motoring, but enhance the driving experience to some degree, as well. 

Photos from Geely, Volvo, Mazda