What is a hybrid car and how does it work?

A hybrid car combines a combustion engine with one or more electric motors to improve efficiency and reduce fuel consumption. Depending on the type of hybrid, the vehicle can use electric power alone, the combustion engine, or both systems together. If you have never driven one before, you may have a few questions: does the battery need charging? How does it drive? And what about its range? The answer depends on whether you choose a full hybrid, plug-in hybrid or mild hybrid model, as each system works differently.

There are three main categories: full hybrid, plug-in hybrid and mild hybrid. Understanding the differences is particularly useful when choosing a hire car for your trip.

A full hybrid (HEV) combines a combustion engine, an electric motor and a battery that recharges while driving through regenerative braking and energy generated by the vehicle.

In certain situations, such as starting off or travelling at lower speeds, the car can run using the electric motor alone for limited periods. It does not need to be connected to an external charger, as the vehicle manages the battery automatically.

This can be particularly useful for drivers spending a lot of time in urban areas, where frequent stopping and starting can make the most of the hybrid system.

Plug-in hybrid

A plug-in hybrid, or PHEV, also combines a combustion engine with an electric motor, but has a larger battery that can be charged using a charging point or compatible socket.

When the battery has sufficient charge, the car can travel several kilometres using electric power alone, depending on the model, battery capacity and driving conditions.

If you choose a plug-in hybrid hire car, it is worth checking in advance where you will be able to charge the battery during your trip.

A mild hybrid uses a smaller electrical system to support the combustion engine, particularly when starting and accelerating. Unlike a full hybrid, it is not designed to travel for extended periods using electric power alone.

Its main benefit is improved efficiency, as the electrical system supports the combustion engine during situations where more energy is required.

The main benefits of a hybrid car include lower fuel consumption in urban driving, smoother performance and reduced reliance on the combustion engine. In traffic, hybrid systems can recover energy through regenerative braking and reduce the need to rely on the combustion engine.

The driving experience can also be quieter and smoother, especially when the electric motor takes over part of the work. If you are used to conventional cars, you will usually notice the difference within the first few miles.

There is another important benefit for travellers: depending on the technology, a hybrid can combine the efficiency of an electric motor with the range provided by a combustion engine.

In more powerful models, the combination of both systems can also provide quick acceleration and a more responsive driving experience.

There are a few points to consider before choosing a hybrid.

With plug-in hybrids, for example, you need to plan charging if you want to make the most of electric driving. If you do not have access to a charging point, you can still use the combustion engine, but you will make less use of one of the main advantages of this type of vehicle. For this reason, plug-in hybrids are usually more suitable for drivers who can regularly access charging points.

You may also need a little time to get used to the driving experience. The accelerator response, regenerative braking and transition between the different systems can feel different from what you are used to.

If this is your first time driving a hybrid, spend a few minutes at the beginning of your hire getting familiar with the controls, driving modes and information displayed on the dashboard.

The technology does most of the work, but a few driving habits can help you make the most of a hybrid car.

Whenever the vehicle provides an EV mode, it can be used in situations where electric driving is suitable, particularly in urban environments and at lower speeds. Eco mode, when available, is another useful option for balancing comfort and efficiency.

Smooth driving can also make a difference. Avoid harsh acceleration and braking and anticipate traffic whenever possible. In vehicles with regenerative braking, slowing down progressively allows the car to recover energy that would otherwise be lost in a conventional vehicle.

It is also important not to assume that a hybrid needs to be driven in a completely different way. After a few miles, the management of the different systems becomes almost automatic.

For many types of journeys, it can be. A hybrid can be particularly attractive if you plan to drive around cities and their surrounding areas, where frequent braking and acceleration are common.

For a trip combining Lisbon with destinations such as Sintra, Cascais or the surrounding areas, a hybrid can be a practical choice due to frequent urban traffic and stop-and-start driving. On a journey made mostly on motorways, however, the difference may be less noticeable. The best choice therefore depends on the type of journey rather than simply the type of fuel.

The amount of space you need should also be considered. For two people, a compact model may be enough. For a family or a longer road trip, a hybrid SUV may provide greater space and comfort.

At Guerin, you can explore the fleet and choose the vehicle available that best suits your journey.

Before booking, think about the journey you are planning, the number of passengers, how much luggage you will carry and the type of driving you expect to do.

If you choose a plug-in hybrid, also check the charging options available at your destination. If you choose a full hybrid, you will not need to plan charging in the same way, as the vehicle manages its battery while driving.

If you are planning a long journey and would like to share the driving, you can also add an Additional Driver to your booking. This allows another family member, friend or colleague to drive the vehicle legally, provided they are registered on the rental agreement.

For those looking for greater peace of mind during their hire, the Pack Premium Gold is another option worth considering. It includes Excess Reduction, Glass and Wheel Protection, Premium Road Assistance and Total Car Rental Protection, among other benefits.

Choosing a hybrid car also means choosing a different way to travel. With greater efficiency in certain driving conditions, quieter motoring and the combination of electric and combustion power, it can be an appealing way to explore Portugal at your own pace.

At Guerin, you can browse the available fleet and choose the vehicle that best suits your journey. The car hire process is 100% digital, from booking through to returning the vehicle, using the website, online check-in, Kiosks and digital vehicle collection solutions.

Next step: explore the Guerin fleet, choose the vehicle that best matches your journey and book your car online.