Regenerative Braking.
The electric motor applies resistance to the drivetrain causing
the wheels to slow down. In return, the energy from the wheels
turns the motor, which functions as a generator, converting energy
normally wasted during coasting and braking into electricity,
which is stored in a battery until needed by the electric motor.
Electric Motor Drive/Assist. The electric motor
provides additional power to assist the engine in accelerating,
passing, or hill climbing. This allows a smaller, more efficient
engine to be used. In some vehicles, the motor alone provides
power for low-speed driving conditions where internal combustion
engines are least efficient.
Automatic Start/Shutoff. Automatically shuts
off the engine when the vehicle comes to a stop and restarts it
when the accelerator is pressed. This prevents wasted energy from
idling.
For fuel economy information on these vehicles, please visit the
Compare
Side-by-Side section.