How Hybrid Cars WorkMany consumers aren't satisfied to know that hybrid automobiles achieve excellent fuel economy and reduced emmissions, but also are also curious about how they work. Three primary components are integrated to make a hybrid: an internal combustion gas engine, an electric motor and a high-powered battery. A process called regenerative braking is used to capture energy and charge the battery. This is energy that would normally be lost during coasting or decelerating. The battery which is continuously recharged through this process provides power to the electric motor. If necessary, power from the gasoline engine might also be diverted to charge the battery. These charging strategies create an electrical power system that never needs to be plugged in to charge from an external source.