Honda Two-Motor Electric Hybrid System Explained

The electric generator motor plays a crucial role in the Honda two-motor hybrid system by serving as an electrical generator, supplying power to the hybrid battery. This innovative hybrid system is versatile and can function as a series or parallel hybrid, with the series mode being the primary operating mode. In this mode, the electric propulsion motor directly drives the wheels. In contrast, the gasoline engine, linked to the electric generator/starter motor, operates as an electrical generator, providing power to the hybrid battery and the propulsion motor. The system seamlessly transitions to parallel hybrid operation during driving conditions, such as steady-state cruising at highway speeds. In this mode, the gasoline engine connects to the front axle via a clutch, and the vehicle’s speed is directly proportional to the engine speed. This intelligent switching between series and parallel hybrid modes ensures optimal efficiency and performance based on the driving situation.

This system operates with an electric motor directly powering the wheels, where the electric propulsion motor serves as the primary electric drive motor. Its main function is to propel the vehicle’s wheels using the electricity stored in the battery. The electric propulsion motor also collaborates with the gasoline engine when extra power is required, enhancing performance and efficiency. The system seamlessly shifts into parallel hybrid operation under specific driving conditions, such as steady-state cruising at highway speeds. In this mode, a clutch connects the gasoline engine to the front axle, and the vehicle’s speed directly correlates to the engine’s speed. This intelligent transition between series and parallel hybrid modes ensures the system operates optimally, efficiently, and efficiently, adapting to the driving situation.

The Atkinson-cycle gasoline engine is seamlessly integrated with the electric generator/starter motor to fulfill its role as an electrical generator, providing power to both the hybrid battery and the propulsion motor. This advanced two-motor hybrid system boasts a 4-cylinder engine using the highly efficient Atkinson cycle. The Atkinson cycle’s key feature is prolonging the intake valve’s open duration during the compression stroke, allowing a reverse intake airflow back into the intake manifold. This unique design enables a more thorough utilization of energy from combustion, resulting in significantly enhanced efficiency. Due to this engineering innovation, each engine coupled with the two-motor hybrid system is one of the most thermally efficient gasoline engines ever employed in mass-produced vehicles. With a thermal efficiency of around 40%, these engines outperform the typical combustion engines, which usually achieve thermal efficiencies ranging from 25% to 30%.

The Intelligent Power Unit, or IPU for short, houses the battery and its control components. Within the IPU, lithium-ion batteries are compactly arranged, ensuring they have minimal impact on the vehicle’s cargo or passenger space. This design allows for the optimal placement of the batteries while maintaining ample room for passengers and luggage. The IPU is crucial in managing the battery’s performance, ensuring it maintains an optimal charge state across various operating conditions. It facilitates recharging of the battery through two methods: Firstly, the propulsion motor engages in regenerative braking, converting kinetic energy back into electrical energy to replenish the battery. Secondly, the generator motor, powered by the gasoline engine, also contributes to recharging the battery. In turn, the battery acts as the power source for the electric propulsion motor, driving the wheels and providing the necessary thrust for the vehicle’s movement. This seamless interplay between the IPU, battery, and propulsion system ensures efficient energy utilization and enhances the overall performance of the hybrid system.

The Power Control Unit (PCU) is the system’s “brain,” precisely overseeing and controlling all hybrid functions. It takes charge of the power management strategy, ensuring optimal performance in various driving scenarios. Responsible for regulating the power flow among the gasoline engine, electric generator motor, and electric propulsion motor, the PCU makes crucial decisions on the most suitable drive mode and how much power from the generator should be directed towards recharging the battery or propelling the vehicle’s wheels. In addition, the PCU plays a vital role in efficiently managing the regenerative braking process. During deceleration, it captures and stores the energy produced, effectively converting it into electrical energy to be used later. Through intelligent control and coordination, the PCU maximizes energy utilization, optimizing the overall efficiency and performance of the hybrid system.

At CMA’s Honda of Winchester, whether you’re searching for the 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid or the Accord Hybrid, rest assured you’ll find them both. With a legacy spanning over 60 years, we proudly hold the top position as the go-to destination for all things automotive in the Winchester, VA, region. Our enduring success is driven by our unwavering commitment to exceptional customer service, offering top-quality products, and ensuring competitive prices. This dedication keeps our valued customers returning for their second, third, and fourth vehicles. Your satisfaction is our priority and the foundation of our reputation and future growth. We go the extra mile to earn your trust and business.