Final answer:
HEV stands for Hybrid Electric Vehicle. It combines an internal combustion engine with an electric motor and battery to improve fuel efficiency and reduce emissions. Both the internal combustion engine and electric motor work together to power the vehicle.
Step-by-step explanation:
HEV definition in the context of vehicles
HEV stands for Hybrid Electric Vehicle. It refers to a type of vehicle that combines an internal combustion engine (usually gasoline-powered) with an electric motor and a battery. The purpose of this hybrid system is to improve fuel efficiency and reduce emissions compared to traditional gasoline-powered vehicles.
How do HEVs work?
HEVs use a combination of the internal combustion engine and the electric motor to power the vehicle. The electric motor is typically used at lower speeds and during acceleration, while the internal combustion engine kicks in at higher speeds or when more power is needed. During deceleration and braking, energy is converted and stored in the battery for later use.
Advantages and disadvantages of HEVs
The main advantage of HEVs is their improved fuel efficiency, which helps reduce both fuel consumption and greenhouse gas emissions. Additionally, the electric motor provides instant torque, resulting in smoother acceleration. However, HEVs tend to be more expensive than conventional vehicles, and their overall environmental impact depends on the source of electricity used to charge the battery.