
The first patent applications for hybrid gasoline-electric rail car and boat propulsion systems were filed way back in 1889. Still, the technology is constantly evolving, the problems are eliminated, and innovative solutions are being developed in order to mitigate the remaining ones.Īs we mentioned, hybrid cars were conceived over a hundred years ago. Because they straddle the line between gas and electricity power, hybrid vehicles have unique demands that may shorten their operating lifespan if they’re not taken care of properly. All have a conventional engine, an electric motor, and a battery. Put simply, hybrid cars combine a standard internal combustion engine (ICE) with an electric one. Car manufacturers are facing fines for failing to meet “green” vehicle quotas and can take advantage of various subsidies for developing and using eco-friendly technology.

Government regulation is another factor that’s affecting the increased presence of hybrid and electric vehicles. It’s hard to argue with increased fuel economy, especially when it’s tied to lowered CO2 emissions and lower maintenance costs. With the relatively recent boom in eco-awareness, they’re more popular than ever.

However, it didn’t get mainstream and mass-production application until the late 1990s. The idea of hybrid vehicles has been with us for well over a century.
