A variety of hybrid systems are in use in automobiles today. Honda’s lightweight and simple design features a parallel system in which the motor assists the engine as required.

Since in a parallel system the engine serves as the main power source, Honda has further refined the engine, developing a new i-VTEC engine around the core of its original valve-control technology. In addition to achieving both powerful torque and high fuel economy, the new engine optimizes efficiency with such innovations as deactivating all cylinders during deceleration for improved regenerative braking. This results in outstanding environmental performance combined with impressive acceleration.

The electric motor provides ample power to allow low-speed cruising under motor power alone. Moreover, the i-VTEC engine controls valve operation to permit deactivating of all four cylinders, for improved regenerative braking efficiency during deceleration.

Vehicle stationary

Idle stop

Startup and acceleration

Motor assist

Low-speed cruising/gentle acceleration

All 4 cylinders deactivated, the vehicle is powered by the motor alone

High-speed cruising

Vehicle powered by engine alone

Rapid acceleration

Motor assist

Deceleration

All 4 cylinders are deactivated and energy is recovered through regenerative braking

In a conventional car there is a flywheel between the engine and the transmission, serving to smooth out fluctuations in engine torque for smooth engine operation. The electric motor in the Honda Hybrid System is slim and compact enough to fit into the space usually taken up by the flywheel. And the rotor in the electric motor serves as the flywheel. This is why the Honda Hybrid System fits in to existing vehicles as is. Honda is hard at work on further hybrid technology development to make hybrid cars even more a part of our lives.