How Hybrid Cars Work ... Gasoline engine - The hybrid car has a gasoline engine much like the one you will find on most cars. However, the engine on a hybrid is smaller ... Transmission - The transmission on a hybrid car performs the same basic function as the transmission on a conventional car. read more
Parallel hybrid car Move your mouse over the parts for a 3-D view. By contrast, in a series hybrid (below), the gasoline engine turns a generator, and the generator can either charge the batteries or power an electric motor that drives the transmission. read more
The Toyota Prius, the world's most popular hybrid car, uses a combination of an internal combustion engine and a battery electric drive system to increase fuel economy and reduce emissions. When pulling away from a stop, the electric motor powers the car, drawing on the battery for power. read more