Serieshybridijärjestelmän

Serieshybridijärjestelmä, also known as a series hybrid electric vehicle (SHEV) drivetrain, is a type of hybrid vehicle where the internal combustion engine (ICE) does not directly power the wheels. Instead, the ICE acts solely as a generator, producing electricity to charge a battery pack or directly power an electric motor that drives the vehicle. The electric motor is the sole source of propulsion for the wheels.

In a series hybrid system, the engine, transmission, and driveshaft found in conventional vehicles are absent. The engine is connected to a generator, and its speed and load are optimized for maximum efficiency and minimal emissions, independent of the vehicle's speed. This allows the engine to operate at its most efficient point more often, potentially leading to better fuel economy and reduced pollution compared to a conventional ICE vehicle.

The electricity generated by the engine can be used in two ways: to recharge the onboard battery pack, or to directly power the electric motor. The battery pack serves as an energy buffer, storing excess energy and supplying power when the engine is not running or cannot produce enough electricity to meet demand. This allows for electric-only driving at lower speeds or for short distances, and provides a power boost when needed.

Series hybrid systems are often seen in applications where consistent power generation is beneficial, such as buses or locomotives, as well as in some passenger cars. The primary advantage is the ability to decouple the engine from the wheels, allowing for greater design flexibility and potential for improved efficiency and emissions control.