Mechatronic

• Mechatronics is an area of engineering that combines electronic, mechanical and computer sciences for technological purposes. Hybrids must have mechatronic systems in place before they can generate the electricity that is needed to operate the vehicle.
  
  

HEV Systems

• Hybrid Electric Vehicles (HEV) use various mechatronic systems in the process of producing, controlling and distributing electricity. These systems include an electric motor/generator, battery pack, controllers and sensors.
  
  

Regenerative Braking

• Regenerative braking is a primary mechatronic system that generates electricity within a hybrid car.
  When the vehicle brakes, some of the energy produced via the braking process is used to drive an alternator, which then transfers electrical energy into the battery.
  
  

Electric Motor

• An electric motor receives electricity from a battery. The motor can then assist the hybrid's combustion engine, giving the vehicle extra power for passing, acceleration or climbing hills.
  
  

Electric Drive

• Hybrids can also use electricity from the battery to power the vehicle without the use of gasoline. This feature within hybrid cars is usually implemented at lower speeds.