Hybrid Electric Vehicles (HEVs)
Hybrid Electric Vehicles (HEVs) combine the benefits of both internal combustion engines (ICE) and electric motors to provide a more efficient and environmentally friendly driving experience. HEVs use a combination of a traditional gasoline or diesel engine and an electric motor powered by a battery pack. This dual powertrain allows HEVs to optimize fuel efficiency and reduce emissions by utilizing the electric motor for low-speed driving and the ICE for higher speeds and longer distances.
2 common types of hybrids are:
HEVs
HEVs or Hybrid Electric Vehicles combine a traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) with an electric motor. The electric motor assists the engine during acceleration and low-speed driving, improving fuel efficiency and reducing emissions. However, HEVs cannot be plugged in, the battery is charged through regenerative braking and the charging while the engine itself is having access of energy. This makes them convenient for drivers who want better efficiency without changing their fuelling habits.
PHEVs
PHEVs or Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles also combine an ICE with an electric motor, but with a key difference: they can be plugged in to charge the battery. This allows PHEVs to drive longer distances on electric power alone, typically between 30 and 80 km, before the gasoline engine takes over. PHEVs offer more flexibility and are ideal for drivers who want to reduce fuel consumption and emissions, especially on short daily commutes.
From a thermal management perspective, HEVs benefit from the integration of cooling systems of both the ICE and the electric components. This integration allows for efficient heat transfer and optimal protection of the vehicle's components.
For hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs), the standard recommendation is to use the same coolant as for internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles. Different designs are present with separated or isolated cooling circuits using the same coolant.
While traditional FREECOR® products used in ICE are also suitable for hybrid technologies and indirectly cooled BEVs, new dedicated products have been developed for vehicles that are designed to handle low e-conductive fluids that are specifically developed for high safety requirements of indirect battery cooling loop. If the high safety standards are imposed, as for example by new China standard, FREECOR® EV Milli 10 will be the preferred choice due to its enhanced performance characteristics.