Info Nugget

• Definition: A mild hybrid vehicle uses an electric motor to assist the internal combustion engine but cannot power the vehicle on its own.
• Power source: Primarily relies on the ICE; the electric motor offers support during acceleration or while restarting after stopping.
• Battery: Small-capacity battery (typically 48V), recharged through regenerative braking.
• Functionality: Engine start-stop system; regenerative braking; torque assist
• Fuel savings: Moderate (approx. 10-15% fuel efficiency improvement)
• Cost: Cheaper than full hybrids
• Example: Maruti Suzuki Ciaz Smart Hybrid

• Definition: A full hybrid can run on the ICE, the electric motor, or both, depending on driving conditions.
• Power source: Can operate in three modes—electric-only, ICE-only or combined.
• Battery: Larger capacity battery (typically 1–2 kWh); self-charging via regenerative braking and engine.
• Functionality: EV mode (zero-emission driving at low speeds); greater torque assist; enhanced regenerative braking
• Fuel savings: Higher (approx. 20-40% fuel efficiency improvement)
• Cost: More expensive than mild hybrids
• Example: Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder (Hybrid variant)

• India’s Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of Hybrid and Electric Vehicles (FAME) scheme initially prioritised electric vehicles but is now also considering hybrids as a transitional technology.
• Full hybrids align better with India’s urban stop-and-go traffic, offering higher emission reductions.
• Mild hybrids are more affordable and easier to adopt in the short term.

Practice Questions

1. What is a mild hybrid vehicle?
2. State one key difference between a mild hybrid and a full hybrid.
3. Name one Indian car model that uses mild hybrid technology.
Long answer questions (10-15 marks)
1. Discuss the difference between mild and full hybrid vehicles with examples.
2. Explain the role of hybrid vehicles in reducing India’s dependency on fossil fuels.
Analytical questions (15-20 marks)
1. “Mild hybrids are a stepping stone, but full hybrids are the real game-changers.” Examine this statement in the context of India’s push for green mobility.
2. Evaluate the pros and cons of adopting hybrid vehicle technology in India from an economic and environmental perspective.
3. Compare mild, full, and plug-in hybrid vehicles. How can policy incentives be optimized to encourage a smoother transition to cleaner transport?
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