Volvo Mild Hybrid System: How Does It Work?

You have probably heard the term "Volvo mild hybrid" when browsing for a new electrified vehicle. This phrase can be confusing, especially when you throw pure electric and plug-in hybrid models into the mix.

If you have never owned an electric vehicle before, a Volvo mild hybrid model can be a great introduction to this eco-friendly world. Stop by Volvo Cars Midlothian today or keep reading for an in-depth look at this system and its intricate features.

What Is a Mild Hybrid System?

Each Volvo mild hybrid is equipped with a small 48-volt battery that it uses to assist the gasoline engine. The battery does not propel the vehicle, although it does put less strain on the engine.

The Volvo mild hybrid system utilizes a starter-generator that utilizes the power within the battery. These systems are called electric-assisted rather than electric-powered for this reason, which sets them apart from plug-in hybrids and pure electric models.

You never have to recharge the battery or spend time at both the pump and an electric charging station because it will recharge on its own. Your driving habits will determine how fast your battery charges as the vehicle utilizes a process called regenerative braking.

When you put your foot on the brake pedal, your battery will begin charging using the energy expended by the braking system. It's best to focus on slow stops instead of abrupt halts for maximum efficiency.

Incredible Benefits

You might be wary of making the switch to a Volvo Cars model with a battery, as there are plenty of naysayers out there meaning to scare you away from this idea. However, the naysayers are wrong, and if sustainability is as important to you as it is to Volvo Cars, then this is a good start.

The technology comes with plenty of benefits, including:

• Smoother ride
• More power
• Less fuel consumption
• Lower tailpipe emissions
• Affordability compared to plug-in hybrids and pure electric models

The ride of a mild hybrid is smoother than your average car, and it will inspire you to look into electric vehicle lease deals after taking one for a test drive. A Volvo mild hybrid model's ride is refined, as it will allow for an instant start and no more lurching from a standstill.

The electric battery also gives the vehicle a little more power off the starting line, as you will see when comparing hybrid and non-hybrid models. It might be worth it to test-drive both kinds of vehicles to appreciate the difference.

You also have to consider the monetary benefits of mild hybrid cars, as they will lower your fuel consumption, which means fewer stops at the pump. They are also more affordable than a plug-in hybrid or all-electric model – not to mention you don't have to worry about plugging them in every night.

Finally, you are probably considering buying electric to help the environment, and despite not being entirely electric, a Volvo mild hybrid vehicle still reduces tailpipe emissions. Also, keep in mind that using less fuel means you are wasting fewer nonrenewable resources and doing your part to help save the planet.

What Is the Difference Between Mild Hybrid and Plug-In Hybrid Systems?

Hybrids and mild hybrids and plug-in hybrids. What's the difference? What do all the designations mean? If you're still feeling a little confused about the difference between Volvo mild hybrid vs. plug-in hybrid vehicle models, it's fairly simple.

A plug-in hybrid vehicle allows you to experience the benefits of electric power, with a combustion engine as a backup. These models differ from mild hybrid systems in that they have bigger motors and bigger batteries that provide a short range of all-electric power when needed. Because of the increased motor and battery size, plug-in hybrid models need to plug in to charge. These vehicles can charge with regenerative braking, but for a faster, full charge, plugging in is necessary. Plug-in hybrid models can charge in a few hours with a 220-volt household connector, or you can juice them faster at public fast-charging stations.

Mild hybrids differ from plug-in hybrids in that they do not need to be plugged in to charge. Mild hybrid systems recharge with the use of regenerative braking. Vehicles with a mild hybrid system are powered by a traditional combustion engine that's supported by a small electric motor and an assistance battery that stores excess energy for the electric motor.

Regenerative braking allows the vehicle to recover kinetic energy during braking; it redirects the energy to the battery, allowing it to recharge during braking and the slowing down of the vehicle. When the brakes are applied, the battery stops delivering power to the electric motor. Instead, the energy from the motor acts as a generator and funnels energy back into the battery when the vehicle is braking or slowing down. This all happens in a split second without you knowing or feeling it, and this is how mild hybrid systems recharge the battery.

Current Volvo Mild Hybrid Models

Volvo Cars has multiple mild hybrid models for you to choose from, and the body styles include sedan, wagon, and SUV. There is something for everyone, and these luxury cars are sensible, safe, and innovative in their organic design.

These are the current Volvo mild hybrid offerings:

• Volvo XC60
• Volvo XC90
• Volvo XC40
• Volvo S60
• Volvo S90
• Volvo V90 Cross Country
• Volvo V60 Cross Country

The Volvo XC60 and Volvo XC90 both come standard as mild hybrid SUVs with two and three rows, respectively. Those interested in a mild hybrid sedan should consider the Volvo S60 or S90, while those looking for a classic station wagon will fall for the V90 Cross Country. No matter which model you choose, you will be overjoyed by what you find as you will be confident every time you slide behind the wheel of these Volvo cars.

If you are looking for a more eco-friendly SUV, then you should explore the plug-in hybrid new Volvo XC60 Recharge for sale. The Volvo XC90 for sale also has a plug-in hybrid Recharge model.

Buy a Volvo Mild Hybrid at Volvo Cars Midlothian

Now that you know how exceptional a Volvo mild hybrid is, there is no reason you should stop yourself from buying one. Head over to Volvo Cars Midlothian, where our associates can put you into the mild hybrid model you have always dreamed of owning.

Are you comparing a Volvo Cars model to another brand? Research the Volvo XC90 Hybrid vs. Lexus RX Hybrid, and you will be pleasantly surprised as to who comes out on top. Hint – it's not the Lexus RX Hybrid.

Don't wait to make the switch from a gas-powered vehicle to a mild hybrid, as once you drive one for yourself, you won't believe you waited as long as you did. Call us today at Volvo Cars Midlothian or use our contact form at the bottom to request your very own Volvo mild hybrid vehicle.

Frequently Asked Questions

Still have questions concerning a Volvo Mild Hybrid and the plans Volvo Cars has for releasing them? Read on to learn the answers to common inquiries about this type of car.

When does Volvo Cars plan to produce a mild hybrid?

Volvo Cars already has multiple mild hybrid models released. You can purchase mild hybrid sedans and SUVs in many models and multiple trim configurations. In fact, starting in 2023, the entire lineup of Volvo vehicles in the U.S. are either mild hybrid, plug-in hybrid, or fully electric vehicles.

Inquire about the mild hybrid options available at Volvo Cars Midlothian.

How does Volvo mild hybrid work?

The Volvo Mild Hybrid utilizes an electric battery to assist the gas engine, but it doesn't move the vehicle by itself. It utilizes regenerative braking to recharge, which means that every time you step on the brake, the car will add power to the battery.

No plugs are necessary; the vehicle will create a smoother ride that will give you the benefits of electricity without the hassles of charging.

What is a mild hybrid Volvo car?

Volvo Cars has several electric options for their vehicles, and a mild hybrid is one of them. This model is an electric-assisted vehicle rather than an electric-powered model.

It has a smaller 48-volt battery that will aid the gas-powered engine in its duties, and it will grant the vehicle more power from a standstill, plus a reduction in fuel consumption.