The world’s transition to becoming net-zero is heavily reliant on electric vehicles (EVs), but hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs) present a significant opportunity for economically developing countries to initiate the transition without delay.
Types of Electric Vehicles
- HEVs (Hybrid EVs): HEVs combine a conventional internal combustion engine (ICE) system with an electric propulsion system, resulting in a hybrid drivetrain that substantially lowers fuel usage. An example of an HEV is the Toyota Hyryder in India.
- PHEVs (Plug-in Hybrid Vehicles): PHEVs also have a hybrid drivetrain but use both an ICE and electric power for motive power. They are backed by rechargeable batteries that can be plugged into a power source for additional electric range. The Chevrolet Volt is a well-known example of a PHEV.
- BEVs (Battery Electric Vehicles)/Full EVs: BEVs or full EVs have no ICE or fuel tank and solely rely on a fully electric drivetrain powered by rechargeable batteries. Popular examples include the Tata Nexon in India, Nissan Leaf, and Tesla Model S.
- FCVs (Fuel Cell Vehicles): FCVs combine hydrogen and oxygen to produce electricity, which powers the motor. The only residue of this chemical process is water. Toyota’s Mirai and Honda’s Clarity are notable examples of FCVs.
Challenges to Transitioning to Electric Mobility
The transition to full EVs faces several challenges, particularly in economically developing countries:
- Fast-Charging Infrastructure: Successful EV adoption requires the establishment of fast-charging infrastructure along highways. The lack of such infrastructure can discourage people from buying full EVs.
- High Fast-Charger Prices: EV fast-chargers can be costly due to high installation and maintenance expenses. This cost factor may impede the growth of charging networks in certain regions.
- Unreliable Grid: Some economically developing nations lack access to a reliable electric grid, making it challenging to support widespread EV adoption.
- Cost of Higher Range: EVs with higher ranges require larger and more expensive battery packs, making them less affordable for consumers.
Advantages of Hybrid EVs
HEVs offer several advantages that make them a viable short-term solution for the transition to net-zero:
- Fuel Economy: HEVs achieve 1.5-2x higher fuel economy in city driving and 1-1.5x higher for highway driving compared to conventional ICE vehicles. PHEVs, in particular, offer 3-4x higher fuel economy when using a small battery that can be charged from the grid.
- Affordability: The purchase price of hybrid cars is only 5-15% higher than conventional vehicles, irrespective of the vehicle range. This affordability makes them a practical alternative to full EVs, especially in regions with limited charging infrastructure.
- Potential for Emissions Reduction: Hybrid technology, such as regenerative braking and engine start-stop mechanisms, can improve fuel economy and contribute to reducing net emissions.
Challenges towards Reducing Net Emissions
Reducing net emissions in both full EVs and hybrid EVs involves considering various factors, including tailpipe emissions, fuel production, vehicle and battery production, maintenance, and end-of-life recycling.
The Way Ahead
To further enhance the fuel economy and emissions reduction of hybrid EVs, additional steps can be taken:
- Regenerative Braking: Utilizing regenerative braking in hybrid EVs can recover kinetic energy and improve fuel economy, particularly in urban areas and hilly terrain.
- Engine Start-Stop Mechanism: Implementing an engine start-stop mechanism can save fuel at traffic junctions and in heavy traffic, contributing to emissions reduction
