One of the first automobile companies to release a hybrid vehicle in the United States, Toyota continues to stand at the forefront of the development of hybrid-electric technology with its next generation Prius and the Hybrid Synergy Drive.

Series Parallel Hybrid

The Hybrid Synergy Drive combines the two forms of hybrid vehicle, the Series Hybrid, and the Parallel Hybrid, to make a system with a versatile operating range.

How It Works

The Hybrid Synergy Drive uses both an electric motor and a gas-powered engine to run the drive wheels. The electric motor runs exclusively when the vehicle runs at low speeds, and calls on the gas engine at higher speeds or whenever necessary.

Charging While Running

Many parallel hybrids use a battery to power the electric motor, with the motor and a gas engine powering the wheels. The gas engine also powers a generator to charge the battery. However, parallel hybrids can't charge the battery while running. The Hybrid Synergy Drive can charge the battery while running because the generator is part of the drive system.

Power Split

The way the generator is integrated into the drive system is relatively simple. The engine runs power into a power splitting device that divides the power between the drive wheels and the generator, allowing both to run at the same time.

Fuel Efficiency

The Hybrid Synergy Drive uses intelligent, selective use of its motor and engine to promise Prius drivers fuel efficiency comparable to vehicles one class smaller in engine displacement and body size, while offering the power of a vehicle one class larger, and the highest in-class fuel efficiency.

Source:

Toyota Hybrid Synergy Drive Information Terminal