Mild Hybrid vs Hybrid, which is better?

More and more manufacturers are completing their ranges with electrified vehicles. These can be electric, hybrid and even Mild Hybrid, among other options such as plug-in hybrids. Today we are going to focus on what are known as Full Hybrids or full hybrids and Mild Hybrids or micro hybrids. Which technology is better? Before going further, let’s explain how each of the options works.

A hybrid car is capable of starting and moving using only electrical energy. In contrast, a Mild Hybrid vehicle has an electrical system that can only assist the combustion engine, but does not allow it to be propelled electrically.

Currently, Mild Hybrid models are those that have electric motors fitted in place of the alternator (P1) and powered at low voltage; between 12 and 48 volts.

Mild Hybrid system, what makes it special?

As we have mentioned, Mild Hybrid systems work as an assistant to the combustion engine. Broadly speaking, this type of technology is simpler, more affordable and lighter compared to a full hybrid or Full Hybrid.

It is also important to point out that it is more affordable for manufacturers to use this type of technology, since some platforms such as the MQB of Volkswagen allow electrification. In addition, Mild Hybrid systems deliver 70% of the benefits of full hybrids for 30% of the cost. Thanks to these systems, average emissions are reduced by around 15% of CO2.

Hybrid system, how does it work?

Hybrid models, for their part, in addition to being able to start and set off in fully electric mode, allow the driver to choose the zero-emission driving option. Normally, this type of vehicle offers a small range. These figures would increase in the case of a plug-in hybrid vehicle or PHEV. This is because the batteries used by hybrids are small and the charge fluctuates depending on the type of driving. This technology is not new; it has been developed since 1974.

First of all, we should know that a hybrid car has two engines: one electric and one combustion. The car uses or alternates both energies to move in the most economical way possible. In addition to having two engines, they have one or more batteries and a generator capable of converting kinetic energy into electrical energy.

Mild Hybrid or Full Hybrid, which is better?

Car manufacturers are seeking compliance with the coveted emissions standards. In 2020, brands have to achieve an average of 95 g/km of CO2 across their entire range and comply with the WLTP homologation cycle.

Some sources claim that Mild Hybrids are temporary, especially with the arrival of new electric models with much greater range and lower emissions.
The choice between a Mild Hybrid model and a full hybrid will depend mainly on the type of journeys you are going to make and the outlay you want to make. It is important to point out that both propulsion systems carry the ECO environmental badge, so you can drive through any area of the large cities and park in the spaces reserved for this type of car.

Hybrid car drivers will never notice a possible loss of power, since both powertrains combine so that the vehicle is agile at all times. If an extra burst of power is needed, they allow the use of kick-down. What is this? A margin in the accelerator that allows a rapid rise in revs. Decelerations and braking generate electrical energy to recharge the battery. We must also not forget the savings on maintenance, as there is less of it and it is more affordable. In the end, the decision is yours, and as we have said, you will need to weigh up the type of journeys, the investment and the use the model in question will be put to.