STARTUP: Only the electric motor is
used for start-up and low to mid-range speeds.
NORMAL: When cruising, the engine and motor both drive the wheels:
engine power is split between the wheels and an electric generator,
which in turn drives the motor. Power allocation is controlled
to maximize efficiency. As necessary, the generator also recharges
the battery from surplus engine power.
HARD ACCELERATION: The battery supplies additional energy to
boost drive power, while the engine and motor provide smooth acceleration
response.
DECELERATION/ BRAKING: The high-output motor acts as a high-output
generator, driven by the car's wheels. This "regenerative
braking system" recovers kinetic energy as electrical energy,
which is stored in the high-performance battery.
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