Hybrid car maintenance knowledge

Emission regulations and OEM commitments to net-zero emissions are accelerating the electrification of light vehicle powertrains. However, while we wait for infrastructure to catch up and for consumers to fully embrace battery electric vehicles, we can expect a range of technologies to emerge in the market over the next decade and beyond. Hybrid powertrains or internal combustion engines equipped with electrification systems (e-ICE) are already well-established in the market and have proven their ability to significantly reduce overall emissions. Many OEMs are expected to incorporate full hybrids and plug-in hybrid vehicles into their short-term emission reduction strategies as they transition from internal combustion engines. 
 Since hybrid vehicles first appeared on the automotive market in the late 1990s, their popularity has steadily increased for obvious reasons. They combine the best of both worlds: the fuel efficiency of electric vehicles and the range of gasoline-powered cars. However, the maintenance requirements for hybrid vehicle components differ from those of traditional cars. Whether you are planning to purchase a hybrid vehicle for the first time or are an early adopter, it’s essential to understand the proper maintenance knowledge to ensure your vehicle operates efficiently and can take you anywhere you want to go. 
 Hybrid vehicles can generally be categorized into three types: Hybrid Electric Vehicles (HEV), Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEV), and Range-Extended Electric Vehicles (REEV). 
 Hybrid Electric Vehicles (HEV)  primarily rely on the electric motor when starting or driving at low speeds, but their pure electric range is short, typically just a few kilometers.  Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEV)  not only have a charging port but also feature enhanced electric motor power, battery capacity, and electric range, resulting in lower fuel consumption. The battery capacity can support the vehicle to run in pure electric mode for tens to hundreds of kilometers.  Range-Extended Electric Vehicles (REEV)  use an engine to charge the battery while the electric motor drives the vehicle. When the battery is sufficiently charged, the vehicle operates in pure electric mode; when the battery charge is low, the engine starts to drive a generator to recharge the battery. 
 Hybrid vehicles combine two power sources—internal combustion engines and electric motors—requiring different maintenance approaches. While some maintenance aspects are similar to traditional cars, others are unique to hybrids. For example, traditional cars typically have a 12-volt battery that provides enough power to start the vehicle. In contrast, hybrid vehicles have larger and more complex batteries that generate sufficient power to drive the car. Therefore, in addition to regular oil changes and tire rotations, you need to pay closer attention to the health of the hybrid vehicle's battery. This is where using TERZO oil can help protect the performance of both the electric and internal combustion engines, ensuring optimal vehicle operation. 
 Another difference is the braking system used in hybrid vehicles. Most hybrids employ regenerative braking, a system that captures kinetic energy usually lost during braking and uses it to recharge the battery. This system improves fuel efficiency and reduces brake pad wear. However, regular checks are still necessary to ensure all components operate smoothly and reliably. 
 Hybrid vehicles face additional challenges compared to traditional gasoline vehicles, such as frequent starts and stops and varying oil temperatures. Frequent engine starts and cold starts without preheating can prevent the oil from fully lubricating the engine's components, leading to potential engine damage and reduced efficiency and performance, thereby shortening engine life. Therefore, hybrid vehicles require specialized lubricants to effectively protect the engine and enhance its performance. TERZO oil is an ideal choice, providing excellent dilution protection, emulsification protection, and start-stop protection, ensuring your hybrid vehicle operates optimally under various driving conditions. 
 In summary, hybrid vehicles are significantly different from traditional gasoline cars, making the choice of the right oil critical. TERZO oil can provide comprehensive protection for your hybrid vehicle, ensuring its high performance in all driving conditions.