A hybrid car combines two power sources (a petrol engine and an electric motor) to deliver efficient, reliable performance for Australian drivers. By seamlessly switching between electric power and petrol power, hybrid vehicles offer improved fuel economy, reduced emissions, and smoother city driving. In this guide, we’ll explain what a hybrid car is, how it works, the difference between hybrid and plug-in hybrid models, what fuel hybrid cars use, and why Toyota hybrids lead the way.

Understanding Hybrid Cars

A hybrid car (or hybrid electric vehicle) uses both an internal combustion engine and an electric motor to move the vehicle. Together, these systems create a balanced approach to performance and efficiency. The electric motor assists the petrol engine at low speeds or during acceleration, drawing on a battery pack that stores electrical energy. This process reduces fuel consumption and enhances fuel economy.

Toyota hybrid vehicles are designed to automatically switch between electric power and petrol power as needed. In stop-start traffic or low-speed driving, they can operate in electric mode, using no petrol at all. At higher speeds, the petrol engine takes over to provide maximum power and maintain battery charge.

How Does a Hybrid Car Work?

A hybrid electric vehicle integrates several key components:

• Internal Combustion Engine: The traditional petrol engine powers the vehicle during highway driving or when more energy is needed.
• Electric Motor: The electric traction motor assists the engine, helping the car accelerate and maintain speed efficiently.
• Battery Pack: The traction battery pack stores electrical energy generated through regenerative braking and the petrol engine.
• Power Electronics Controller: This manages how energy flows between the battery power, electric motor, and petrol engine.

During braking, the system captures kinetic energy and converts it into electrical energy to recharge the hybrid battery. This process, known as regenerative braking, improves fuel efficiency and reduces wear on brake components.

Toyota’s advanced hybrid technology combines these elements to optimise performance in all conditions, from city driving to long highway trips.

What is the Difference Between a Hybrid Car and an Electric Car?

Understanding the differences between hybrid cars, plug-in hybrid vehicles (PHEVs), and fully electric vehicles (EVs) can help you choose the right option for your lifestyle.

Hybrid Vs Plug-in Hybrid Vs Fully Electric

Hybrid Vehicles:

Use a petrol engine and an electric motor. They self-charge through regenerative braking and the engine itself. No external charging is needed.

Plug-In Hybrid Vehicles: 

Also known as plug-in hybrid electric vehicles, these have larger batteries that can be charged from an external power source. They can travel longer distances using only electric driving before switching to petrol.

Fully Electric Vehicles:

Also called battery electric vehicles, these run solely on electrical energy stored in lithium-ion batteries. They need external charging and have no fuel tank or combustion engine.

In simple terms, hybrids use less fuel, plug-in hybrids use both electricity and petrol or diesel, and electric cars use no fuel at all. Each offers different advantages depending on your driving range, access to charging, and driving habits.

What Fuel Does a Hybrid Car Use?

Most hybrid cars in Australia use traditional petrol. The electric motor assists the petrol engine to save fuel and lower running costs. Some rare models use diesel engines, but petrol hybrids remain the most common.

The system automatically balances battery power and petrol power to achieve better fuel economy. Drivers don’t need to plug in a Toyota hybrid; it recharges itself during driving and braking. However, plug-in hybrids use both petrol or diesel and electrical energy, depending on battery charge.

Whether driving in electric mode or with petrol power, Toyota hybrids are designed to improve fuel economy and lower emissions compared with conventional cars.

What Is a Toyota Hybrid Car?

A Toyota hybrid car combines a petrol engine and one or more electric motors through Toyota’s globally proven hybrid systems. Each model is designed to deliver smooth, efficient performance — balancing power, fuel economy, and reliability for Australian drivers.

Some of Toyota’s most popular hybrid models include:

• Yaris Hybrid – Agile, compact and ideal for urban driving.
• Yaris Cross Hybrid – A small SUV offering practicality and excellent fuel efficiency.
• Corolla Hybrid – Compact and economical for everyday use.
• Corolla Cross Hybrid – Spacious and versatile for growing families.
• Camry Hybrid – Smooth, refined, and efficient for long-distance comfort.
• C-HR Hybrid – Stylish crossover that delivers improved efficiency and performance.
• RAV4 Hybrid – Powerful yet efficient, ideal for city and off-road adventures.
• Kluger Hybrid – A family SUV that combines hybrid power with generous space.
• Prius and Prius v – Pioneers of Toyota’s hybrid technology, setting benchmarks for low fuel consumption and reduced emissions. (Prius models were discontinued in Australia in 2022)

Every Toyota hybrid features an electronically controlled continuously variable transmission (e-CVT) to ensure smooth transitions between power sources. The result is a comfortable drive, lower emissions, and the trusted reliability Toyota is known for. Toyota’s hybrid batteries and battery technology are engineered for longevity and backed by strong warranty coverage.

At Southside Toyota, you can explore the full Toyota hybrid range and experience the benefits of modern hybrids designed for Australian roads.

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What are the Benefits of a Hybrid Car?

Hybrid cars deliver a range of benefits for Australian drivers:

• Improved Efficiency: The combination of electric motors and petrol engines ensures efficient energy use and better fuel economy.
• Reduced Emissions: Less reliance on fuel means fewer exhaust emissions, contributing to a cleaner environment.
• Lower Running Costs: Hybrid vehicles generally use less fuel, saving money on every trip.
• Extra Power: The electric motor assists the engine, delivering more power when accelerating or overtaking.
• Quiet, Smooth Drive: The electric driving capability ensures a calm, refined experience during low-speed driving.

Toyota’s commitment to innovation means you can enjoy high energy density performance, reliable hybrid batteries, and cutting-edge power electronics. Whether navigating city driving conditions or longer trips, a Toyota hybrid delivers maximum power with improved efficiency.

Looking to make the switch to hybrid? Get an instant valuation on your current vehicle.  

Experience Toyota Hybrid Technology at Southside Toyota

Discover the innovation and reliability behind Toyota’s hybrid technology at Southside Toyota. Visit our Woolloongabba or Mt Gravatt dealerships to explore the latest hybrid models, book a test drive, or learn more about Toyota’s advanced hybrid systems. Our team is here to help you find the right hybrid for your lifestyle and driving needs.

Contact Us today to book a test drive.