5 'Mild Hybrid' Facts
By Jennifer Olvera
1. Mild Hybrid Defined
A mild hybrid is a type of gasoline-electric hybrid that uses an internal combustion engine to power the vehicle at all times. An electric motor is incorporated only as a power booster of sorts, as a starter-generator, or both. While some mild hybrids use an electric drive motor to provide a gasoline engine with extra power, it cannot ever propel the vehicle on its own. Mild hybrids save fuel by shutting engine power off under most circumstances when the vehicle is stopped, braking, or coasting. The engine restarts seamlessly and efficiently. Electric accessories like the radio or GPS navigation continue to function with the engine off.
2. How They’re Different
All mild hybrids are less expensive than full hybrid systems because they require less sophisticated components and less battery power. Some, but not all, mild hybrids use regenerative braking to recharge the battery. Different mild hybrid configurations exist including Integrated Starter-Generator (ISG) and Belt Alternator Starter (BAS) systems.
3. Benefits of Mild Hybrids
Although they do not offer the all-out benefits of full hybrids, mild hybrids do provide a modest improvement in fuel efficiency of 10 to 15 percent because they’re not burning gas when stopped. Because they are much less costly than full hybrid systems, a greater number of drivers are likely to choose mild hybrids and realize better fuel efficiency than would otherwise be the case. This easy entry into the world of hybrids will serve to familiarize drivers with hybrid technology and potentially encourage drivers to choose a full hybrid for their next vehicle.
4. Modest Gas Mileage Improvements for Cheap
Companies like GM have rolled out mild hybrids in multiple models. And while their mpg improvement is not dramatic, it is a step in the right direction. For example, the 2008 Saturn Vue Green Line – a mild hybrid – achieves 25 mpg in the city and 32 mpg on the highway. In comparison, the standard non-hybrid Vue gets 19 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway. That 6 mpg improvement may not be in the same league as that achieved by the Prius or Civic Hybrid, but it is an excellent fuel economy improvement at a very reasonable cost.
5. Incentives are Available
Along with full hybrid models, mild hybrids qualify for a government tax credit. However, it’s important to note that the credits will be phased out once sales of a particular automaker’s hybrid models reach a specific number.
Want to know more about mild hybrids? Be sure to check out these articles on GreenCar.com:
Driving the Cool New Chevy 2008 Malibu Hybrid
Saturn Offers 2007 Aura Hybrid Car for the Budget Conscious
2007 Saturn Vue Green Line Hybrid
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