Glossary / General

series hybrid

12 Episode Mentions

Too Afraid to Ask

In a series hybrid, the gasoline engine only charges the battery or runs an electric motor. It never turns the wheels directly, which helps the car run more efficiently.

Technical Definition

A series hybrid is a configuration where the internal combustion engine does not drive the wheels directly; instead, it powers a generator that charges the battery or drives an electric motor. This setup allows for efficient operation and smooth power delivery.

Hear It Discussed

"...to transmit power and change the car from being a series hybrid to a parallel hybrid at high speeds."
Top 5 GT Cars - Most Fun Under $50K, Sports Car-Shaped Hole, Does The Dealer Always Know Best? | Episode 1,011 Everyday Driver Car Debate 04:43

"All it does is provide, work as a generator to provide an electric motor or a series of electric motors with the power to accelerate the vehicle."
Episode 448: 2026 Jeep Grand Wagoneer, 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid Unnamed Automotive Podcast 15:43

"[3318.9s] a B segment crossover, [3320.3s] series hybrid [3321.2s] not plug-in."
The NEW Audi A2, the Morris Marina, innate optimism My week in cars: the Autocar podcast 55:20