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Differences Between Mild-Hybrid and Strong-Hybrid Cars?

Differences Between Mild-Hybrid and Strong-Hybrid Cars
Electric cars are gaining popularity in India, but many consumers still prefer hybrids, which combine the benefits of traditional cars and EVs. This article explores the differences between mild-hybrid and strong-hybrid cars to help you make an informed decision.  
Hybrid cars combine an internal combustion engine (ICE) with electric components to improve fuel efficiency and reduce emissions. There are two main types: mild-hybrid and strong-hybrid.  

Mild-Hybrid and Strong-Hybrid

Mild-Hybrid Basics

A mild-hybrid has an Integrated Starter Generator (ISG) and a small Li-ion battery. The ISG boosts power, aids the engine, and improves fuel efficiency. It can help with functions like running the air conditioner, powering devices, and providing a minor torque boost at low speeds. Mild-hybrids also enable the engine to shut off while coasting, idling, or decelerating, which helps save fuel.
Mild Hybrid Platform
Mild Hybrid Platform

Advantages of Mild-Hybrids

  • Lower cost compared to strong-hybrids
  • Improved fuel efficiency over traditional ICE cars
  • Simpler technology with fewer components

Strong-Hybrid Basics

A strong-hybrid features a larger battery and a full electric motor. Unlike a mild-hybrid, it can run on electric power alone for short distances, typically a few kilometers. The strong-hybrid system automatically switches between the electric motor and the internal combustion engine (ICE), or uses both together, depending on driving conditions.
Strong Hybrid Platform
Strong Hybrid Platform

Advantages of Strong-Hybrids

  • Significantly better fuel efficiency than mild-hybrids
  • Ability to run purely on electric power for short distances
  • Reduced emissions and environmental impact
  • Enhanced performance with instant torque from the electric motor

Efficiency and Performance Comparison

Strong-hybrids are more fuel-efficient than mild-hybrids. For example, the Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder’s strong-hybrid version achieves up to 27.97 km/l, which is about 7 km/l more than its mild-hybrid version. The electric motor in a strong-hybrid also delivers instant torque, improving acceleration and overall performance.

Environmental Impact

Strong-hybrids are cleaner and greener compared to mild-hybrids. They reduce fuel consumption and emissions, making them a better choice for reducing pollution and conserving fuel.  

Cost Considerations

Strong-hybrids are more expensive upfront compared to mild-hybrids, but the long-term savings on fuel and the environmental benefits can make them a worthwhile investment. Plus, with rising fuel prices in India, the improved fuel efficiency of strong-hybrids can lead to significant savings over time.

Mild-Hybrid Cars Available in India

  • Maruti Suzuki Brezza
  • Maruti Suzuki Ertiga and XL6
  • Maruti Suzuki Ciaz
  • MG Hector and Hector Plus

Strong-Hybrid Cars Available in India

Under 25 Lakhs:
  • Honda City e:HEV
  • Maruti Grand Vitara
  • Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder
Above 25 Lakhs:
  • Toyota Innova Hycross
  • Maruti Invicto
  • Toyota Camry
Mild-hybrids offer modest fuel efficiency improvements and are more affordable, making them suitable for budget-conscious buyers. Strong-hybrids provide substantial fuel savings, better performance, and are more environmentally friendly, catering to those willing to invest more upfront for long-term benefits.  
By understanding the differences and considering your budget and needs, you can make an informed decision on whether a mild-hybrid or a strong-hybrid is the right choice for you.    
What is a mild hybrid car?

A mild hybrid car uses an Integrated Starter Generator (ISG) and a small lithium-ion battery to assist the internal combustion engine (ICE). The ISG provides a minor power boost, runs accessories, and enables start-stop functionality, improving fuel efficiency and reducing emissions.

Is it worth buying a mild hybrid car?

Yes, if you seek improved fuel efficiency and lower emissions without the higher cost of full hybrids. Mild hybrids offer a good balance of performance and efficiency, making them a practical choice for budget-conscious buyers.

Is mild hybrid self-charging?

Yes, mild hybrids are self-charging. They use regenerative braking to capture energy when slowing down and convert it into electrical energy stored in the battery. This process eliminates the need for external charging.

Which is better, mild or full hybrid?

Full hybrids are better in terms of fuel efficiency, performance, and environmental impact. They can run on electric power alone for short distances. Mild hybrids are less expensive and simpler, providing moderate efficiency improvements.

Does mild hybrid increase mileage?

Yes, mild hybrids increase mileage by improving fuel efficiency. The ISG assists the engine during acceleration, reduces load, and enables the engine to shut off when coasting or idling, saving fuel.

Which type of hybrid is best?

The best type of hybrid depends on your needs. Full hybrids offer significant fuel savings and better performance, while mild hybrids are more affordable and provide moderate efficiency gains. Strong hybrids balance both, providing substantial benefits without the high cost of full hybrids.

Are mild hybrids safe?

Yes, mild hybrids are safe. They comply with all standard safety regulations and offer the same safety features as conventional cars, including airbags, ABS, and stability control.

Which Maruti cars are mild hybrid?

Maruti offers several mild hybrid cars in India, including:

  • Maruti Suzuki Brezza
  • Maruti Suzuki Ertiga and XL6
  • Maruti Suzuki Ciaz
  • Maruti Fronx
Are mild hybrids expensive to maintain?

No, mild hybrids are not significantly more expensive to maintain than conventional cars. The mild hybrid system is relatively simple, adding minimal complexity to the vehicle’s maintenance routine.

How long does a mild hybrid battery last?

A mild hybrid battery typically lasts between 8 to 10 years, depending on usage and driving conditions. Manufacturers often provide warranties covering the battery for this period.

How to charge a mild hybrid?

Mild hybrids do not require external charging. They use regenerative braking and the ICE to recharge the battery while driving.

What is the best way to drive a mild hybrid car?

To maximize fuel efficiency, drive smoothly and avoid rapid acceleration and hard braking. Utilize the start-stop system by allowing the engine to shut off when idling.

Can a mild hybrid run without a battery?

No, a mild hybrid cannot run without a battery. The battery is essential for the ISG to function and provide the power assist and start-stop capabilities.

Do mild hybrids have two batteries?

Yes, mild hybrids typically have two batteries: a conventional 12V battery for standard electrical systems and a separate lithium-ion battery for the hybrid system.

How big is the battery in a mild hybrid?

The battery in a mild hybrid is relatively small, usually between 0.5 to 1 kWh. It is designed to provide short bursts of power and assist the ICE rather than drive the vehicle on its own.

Can a mild hybrid be turned off?

You can turn off the engine like any conventional car, but the hybrid system itself operates automatically and cannot be turned off separately.

What is the advantage of a mild hybrid?

The main advantages of a mild hybrid are improved fuel efficiency, reduced emissions, and lower cost compared to full hybrids. They also provide a smoother driving experience with the start-stop system.

What is the disadvantage of a hybrid car?

The disadvantages include higher upfront costs, potential complexity in maintenance, and less significant fuel savings compared to full hybrids. The mild hybrid system also provides limited electric-only driving.

What is the difference between hybrid and mild hybrid?

There is no difference; “full hybrid” and “strong hybrid” are interchangeable terms. Both refer to hybrids that can operate on electric power alone for short distances and combine a larger battery and electric motor with an internal combustion engine (ICE).

Is mild hybrid efficient?

Yes, mild hybrids are efficient. They improve fuel economy by providing assistance to the ICE, reducing engine load, and enabling start-stop functionality, which leads to moderate fuel savings.

What is strong hybrid in cars?

A strong hybrid, also known as a full hybrid, features a larger battery and a full electric motor. It can run on electric power alone for short distances and switch between the electric motor and the ICE, or use both simultaneously, depending on driving conditions.

Which hybrid is the most powerful?

The most powerful hybrids are typically plug-in hybrids (PHEVs) or high-performance hybrids from luxury brands like BMW, Porsche, and Lexus. These combine large batteries and powerful electric motors with high-output internal combustion engines.

Which is better, mild hybrid or strong hybrid?

Strong hybrids are better in terms of fuel efficiency, performance, and environmental impact. They provide significant fuel savings and can run on electric power alone for short distances. Mild hybrids are more affordable and offer moderate efficiency improvements.

Which hybrid is fastest?

High-performance hybrids from brands like BMW, Porsche, and Lexus are the fastest. They combine powerful electric motors with high-performance internal combustion engines to deliver impressive speed and acceleration.

What is the difference between strong hybrid and EV cars?

Strong hybrids combine an internal combustion engine (ICE) with an electric motor and can run on electric power alone for short distances. Electric vehicles (EVs) are fully electric, with no ICE, relying entirely on battery power for propulsion.

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