Fuel Economy in Hybrid Vehicles: What You Need to Know About Why Hybrids Get Better MPG
PASA A:
● How fuel economy is measured
● How do hybrids get higher MPG?
● Why do hybrids get better city mileage than traditional gas-powered vehicles?
● Are there any circumstances where hybrids don’t help you save fuel?
● How do plug-in hybrid vehicles measure up?
● How to save gas and maximize your hybrid vehicle’s fuel economy
● What is the fuel economy of the Mazda CX-50 Hybrid?
Fuel economy often ranks as one of the top reasons people choose hybrid vehicles. But if hybrids still use gasoline like regular cars, what makes them more fuel-efficient?
The key lies in how hybrids use their gasoline engine. The engine runs less often and operates more efficiently when it does. A smaller engine, paired with electric motors, allows the vehicle to use less fuel overall. Electric motors power the car at low speeds, help start the engine, and can reduce engine idling when stopped, eg. at a stoplight. By using both the gasoline engine and electric motor strategically, hybrids can maximize fuel efficiency.1
Let’s take a closer look at what makes hybrid vehicles have better fuel economy than traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles.
A note on how fuel economy is measured and understood
For decades, North Americans have measured fuel economy in "miles per gallon" (mpg). Drivers are used to hearing comparisons along the lines of, “a car that gets 35 mpg is more economical than one that gets 25 mpg.”2
While this system is accurate, it doesn’t always provide the clearest comparison. For example, on a 300-mile trip:
• A 25-mpg car uses 12 gallons ($48 at $4/gallon)2
• A 35-mpg car uses 8.57 gallons ($34.28 at $4/gallon)2
• A 45-mpg car uses 6.7 gallons ($26.67 at $4/gallon)2
The savings may depend on the starting point. For instance, the difference between a car that gets 45 mpg and one that gets 35 mpg is $7.61 in gas savings, but the difference between a car that gets 35 mpg and one that gets 25 mpg is $13.72 in gas savings. Although the mpg difference is the same (10 mpg), the savings are greater when going from a car that gets 25 mpg to one that gets 35 mpg than from going from a car that gets 35 mpg to one that gets 45 mpg, because the car with the lowest mpg (25 mpg) uses significantly more fuel overall.
Note: This is an illustrative example. Actual savings will vary based on factors such as gas prices, driving conditions, and individual driving habits.
This is why, in 2013, the EPA added a "gallons per 100 miles" measurement to window stickers. This gives a clearer comparison by showing exactly how much fuel a vehicle uses to travel 100 miles. The higher the number, the more fuel the vehicle uses — unlike the old mpg system, where a higher number meant better fuel efficiency.2
How do hybrids get higher MPG?
An internal combustion engine converts the energy in gasoline (or other fuels) into mechanical energy and heat. Here is a breakdown of how that energy is used:
• Some of the energy is used by the engine to keep itself going — friction and pumping action eat up energy.
• Some of the energy is used to power accessories like air conditioning, power steering, and an alternator to power everything electric.
• Some of the energy is used to propel the vehicle.
• And some of the energy is lost as waste heat (exhaust).
Larger engines, or those with turbochargers or superchargers, tend to require more fuel than smaller ones, all else being equal.
Hybrids typically use smaller, more efficient engines and are supported by electric motors. Electric motors provide instant torque, which helps get the car moving, while combustion engines need to rev up to reach their full power. In hybrids, the electric motor can drive the car at low speeds, start the engine when needed, and power accessories like climate control while the vehicle is stopped.
Because the combustion engine runs less often and at lower power, it burns less fuel.2 With the electric motor(s) supporting the engine, hybrids demand less from the engine and consequently use less gasoline. The electric motor(s) in a hybrid powertrain is (are) powered by a battery pack, which gets charged by recovering energy during braking (known as frenos regenerativos) and from extra capacity in the combustion engine when it's not at full power. The vehicle’s control systems manage power distribution for maximum efficiency.
Many hybrids can also include additional features aimed at improving fuel efficiency, such as improved aerodynamics, low-rolling-resistance tires, and energy-efficient displays.2
Why do hybrids typically get better city mileage than traditional gas-powered vehicles?
Because of the stop-and-go nature of city driving, hybrids employ the electric motor more, and can maintain battery charge for longer using regenerative braking.
This is why hybrids tend to be more fuel-efficient in city driving than on the highway.2 They’re able to use the electric motor more and call upon the gasoline engine only when needed in the city. However, at higher speeds on the highway, maintaining speed requires more energy and there are few opportunities to use regenerative braking to recharge a depleted EV battery. In fact, some hybrids have lower fuel economy ratings for highway driving compared to city driving.2
Are there any circumstances where hybrids don’t help you save fuel?
It’s rare that a hybrid doesn’t save fuel over a non-hybrid. The primary circumstance would be if someone drove a plug-in hybrid in which the battery pack was never charged. Without using the electric range (usually 15-60 miles), the vehicle ends up carrying the extra weight of the battery pack, which requires more fuel.
Another scenario in which a híbrido vehicle wouldn’t save you fuel would be if the hybrid's battery (also called the traction battery) fails or wears out. However, most hybrid batteries are warrantied for at least 100,000 miles, and hybrids are generally very reliable, so this is uncommon.
Lastly, a hybrid running at sustained high speeds with a full load might use as much fuel as a non-hybrid. But this is not typically a concern in everyday driving in North America.
How do plug-in hybrid vehicles measure up compared to full hybrids in terms of fuel economy?
Plug-in hybrids offer a great advantage with their ability to drive on electricity alone for longer distances than regular hybrids. This can allow for significant fuel savings over time if the PHEV is able to be plugged in regularly to maintain the EV battery state of charge. That said, the ability to drive on electric power for longer stretches makes plug-in hybrids an excellent choice for those looking to maximize their electric driving experience.2
How to save gas and maximize your hybrid vehicle’s fuel economy
Fuel-saving tips that apply to non-hybrids also work for hybrids. For example:
• Accelerating burns more gas, so try to maintain steady, moderate speeds.
• Use smart routing and grouping errands together to avoid overlapping, inefficient routes.
• Keep your tires properly inflated and turn off the air conditioning when the weather is comfortable.
In addition to general fuel-saving tips, hybrids offer some unique ways to maximize efficiency:
• Plan ahead to take advantage of regenerative braking. By slowing down gradually, you recharge the battery and reduce wear on the brakes.
• Use the onboard displays and settings to improve your driving efficiency, whether you prefer “eco” mode or “sport” mode.
• Leverage available software and mapping features that show elevation changes and suggest the most efficient routes.
What is the fuel economy of the Mazda CX-50 Hybrid?
Entre Mazda CX-50 Hybrid boasts EPA-estimated 39 mpg in the city, 37 mpg on the highway, and 38 mpg combined.2 In comparison, the CX-50 2.5 S, with a similarly-sized 2.5L four-cylinder engine, achieves EPA -estimated 25 mpg city, 31 mpg highway, and 28 mpg combined.2 That means the CX-50 Hybrid is 56% more fuel-efficient in the city and 19% more efficient on the highway.2
Test-Drive the Mazda CX-50 Hybrid Today
Entre CX-50 Hybrid combines a spacious five-passenger cabin and compact exterior with impressive fuel economy,2 making it ideal for commuting. Whether you're the designated driver for a night out or enjoying the Mazda signature driving experience on a cross-country road trip, it’s ready for any adventure.
Visit a Concesionario Mazda near you today and take one for a test drive to experience the joy of driving a Mazda Hybrid today.
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