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title: Hybrid Car
description: What exactly is classed as a traditional hybrid?
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# Hybrid Car

## What exactly is classed as a traditional hybrid?

A traditional hybrid, also known as a full hybrid or hybrid electric vehicle (HEV), is a type of electric vehicle that combines an [internal combustion engine (ICE)](https://help.gowago.ch/en/ice-internal-combustion-engine?hsLang=en) with an electric motor and a battery.

The most prominent example of this technology, and one of its earliest versions, is the Toyota Prius.

Unlike [plug-in hybrids (PHEVs)](https://help.gowago.ch/en/plug-in-hybrid?hsLang=en) or battery electric vehicles (BEVs), traditional hybrids cannot be plugged in to recharge their batteries. Instead, their batteries are charged through regenerative braking and by the internal combustion engine.

This dual-source power system allows traditional hybrids to switch between or combine the ICE and the electric motor to optimise fuel efficiency and reduce emissions. The electric motor can power the vehicle alone at low speeds or assist the ICE during acceleration, reducing the demand on the petrol or diesel engine and thereby conserving fuel.

Traditional hybrids are known for their efficiency, especially in city driving where stop-and-go traffic allows for more frequent use of regenerative braking to recharge the battery.

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