Light Duty Hybrid/Electric Vehicle Flashcards

In a series hybrid configuration, how does the gasoline engine contribute to propulsion?

Answer: It drives a generator that powers the electric motor or charges the battery

In a series hybrid the engine never drives the wheels directly; it only generates electricity for the motor or battery.

What is a key advantage of a parallel hybrid system?

Answer: Both the engine and electric motor can drive the wheels

A parallel hybrid lets the engine and motor power the wheels together or separately for flexible efficiency.

What is the typical charging level designation for a standard 120V household outlet used to charge an EV?

Answer: Level 1

Level 1 charging uses a standard 120V outlet and provides the slowest charge rate.

What connector standard is commonly used for DC fast charging on many North American non-Tesla EVs?

Answer: CCS (Combined Charging System)

CCS combines the J1772 AC pins with two DC pins to support high-speed DC fast charging.

Why must a technician never use standard automotive electrical test equipment on high-voltage circuits?

Answer: It is not rated for HV and can cause arc flash or electrocution

Non-rated test tools can fail catastrophically at high voltage, risking arc flash, equipment damage, and serious injury.

What component allows a hybrid's engine to shut off at a stop and restart seamlessly?

Answer: The auto start-stop system using the integrated motor-generator

The integrated motor-generator enables smooth, rapid engine restarts as part of the idle stop-start function.

What is the primary reason hybrid vehicles often use an electric A/C compressor instead of a belt-driven one?

Answer: So cooling continues while the gasoline engine is off

An electrically driven compressor keeps the cabin cool even when the engine shuts off during idle stop.