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ABOUT PLUG-IN HYBRID VEHICLES
ABOUT PLUG-IN HYBRID VEHICLES
ABOUT PLUG-IN HYBRID VEHICLES
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Operational Characteristics
The Clarity Plug-In Hybrid uses a combination of an electric motor and
a gasoline engine as propulsion sources. The electric motor receives
electricity from an internal high voltage battery and an internal generator.
The vehicle can be plugged in to charge the high voltage battery or the
battery can be recharged (to a degree) during vehicle use. Depending on
the state of charge, the vehicle may be driven solely on electric power
(ev) for periods of time. An estimated range in ev is displayed on the driver
information interface or audio/information screen.
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Main Components
Battery
High Voltage
Generator & Electric Motor
Gasoline Engine
•
Gasoline Engine
– Provides propulsion to the wheels under certain
driving conditions and powers the generator.
•
Generator
– Starts the engine and generates electric power when driving
using the gasoline engine. This supplies electricity to the electric motor
and/or the high voltage battery.
•
Electric Motor
– Provides propulsion to the wheels in conjunction with
the gasoline engine under certain conditions. It provides electricity to the
high voltage battery through regenerative braking.
•
High Voltage Battery
– Provides electrical storage and is a power source
for the electric motor.
•
High Voltage Battery Charge Level Gauge
– Displays the battery state of
charge. When displaying one segment, ev is restricted as a propulsion
source.
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Power Sources Unique to the PHEV
There are three different operating states for the vehicle. The vehicle can be
driven by electrical power via the electric motor (ev), by the gasoline engine
while charging the high voltage battery (Hv charge), or by a combination of
the two systems – a hybrid operation (Hv). Under most driving conditions,
the system will automatically select an appropriate state to operate in based
on driving needs, while prioritizing use of electricity over gasoline, in order
to maximize energy economy. Additionally, the drive source can be changed
manually between electric and hybrid by using the Hv button. During high
speed cruising under certain conditions, the gasoline engine will directly
propel the vehicle. When driving in Hv charge, the engine will recharge the
high voltage battery (if the charge level is low).
• Use ev for city traffic or driving at slow speed.
• Use Hv for highway driving at higher speeds.
• Use Hv Charge to charge the High voltage battery while driving.
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Battery Types
There are two types of batteries in this vehicle. A standard 12-volt battery,
which powers the airbags, interior and exterior lights, and other standard
12-volt systems; and a high voltage lithium-ion battery, which powers the
propulsion motor and recharges the 12-volt battery.
The High voltage battery gradually discharges even if the vehicle is not in
use. As a result, if your vehicle is parked for an extended period of time,
the battery level may get low. Keeping your vehicle’s battery level low can
shorten the battery life. To maintain the battery while the vehicle is not in
use, recharge the battery at least once every three months.
The High voltage battery life can also be affected by ambient temperature.
In particular, when it is cold outside, the vehicle’s driving range on electric
power can be reduced, and a longer battery charging time is required. In
addition, parking in extremely hot or cold environments can accelerate
battery drain.
To help extend the lifespan of the battery, it is recommended that you fully
charge the battery each time prior to driving.
If the high voltage battery becomes fully discharged or damaged and the
vehicle cannot be started via the power system, consult an authorized
Honda Clarity Plug-In Hybrid dealer.
For more information on the vehicle’s drive sources, operational characteristics,
and regenerative energy and braking functions, see the owner’s Manual online
at
owners.honda.com
(U.S.) or
myhonda.ca
(Canada).
