03-12-2012, 05:22 PM
HYBRID CAR TECHNOLOGY AND EMERGENCY PROCEDURES
Hybrid.ppt (Size: 1.4 MB / Downloads: 137)
WHAT IS A HYBRID?
The dictionary defines a hybrid as something of mixed origin
A hybrid vehicle is one that combines a smaller-than-normal internal combustion gasoline engine with the electric motor of an electric-powered vehicle
HOW DO HYBRID CARS WORK?
A hybrid car is a passenger vehicle that is driven by a hybrid engine, which is an engine that combines two or more sources of power, generally gasoline and electricity
There are two types of gasoline-electric hybrids:
Parallel hybrid
Series hybrid
Both use gasoline-electric hybrid technology, but in radically different ways
Both have small gasoline engines
Both produce much less pollution than standard gasoline cars
Both produce much less power – generally between 60-90hp (the average gasoline engine produces double that)
OTHER HYBRID TERMINOLOGY
Full Hybrid: Can move solely on electric power
Mild Hybrid: Requires at least some gasoline to power the transmission
Stop-Start Hybrids: Use electric power only while idling or during vehicle deceleration
WHO MANUFACTURES AND SELLS HYBRID GASOLINE/ELECTRIC VEHICLES IN THE USA?
With the recent releases of hybrids in the 2006 and 2007 model year cars, perhaps the question should be, “Who doesn’t manufacture and sell hybrid gasoline/electric vehicles?”!
The following slides show a majority of the manufacturers and the hybrid models they offer. Many more are due out in 2008 such as a hybrid Cadillac Escalade.
HOW DO WE LEARN ABOUT THESE HYBRIDS?
Many manufactures offer on-site training/familiarization through local dealers.
Most offer informational booklets or on-line information geared for emergency procedures.
This technology is changing so rapidly, with no standardization of the location of the batteries and power cables that it is imperative we as rescuers make this knowledge a priority!
Following is an on-line presentation found on the GM site. This presentation was developed to educate emergency workers.
In place of a tachometer, a power meter showing kW output is used
Do you notice orange (high voltage) or blue (intermediate voltage) loom under hood or running under vehicle?
Hybrid tag on motor
Auxiliary Power Output Operation button on dash or 120VAC plugs noted in bed of pickup
HYBRID CAR EMERGENCY PROCEDURES
Locate the 12V battery. It may or may not be under the hood. In the Toyota Prius it is located inside the driver’s rear wheelwell within the trunk. Either disconnect or double cut first the negative and then the positive cable. This disables the high-voltage battery controller, which prevents electric current from flowing into the orange cables and the high-voltage battery.
With the ignition key turned off and removed and the 12V battery disabled, the hybrid vehicle is safe to work on for vehicle rescue. High-voltage electricity still exists, but it is isolated to the battery pack, generally in the trunk of cars or under the rear passenger seat in pick-ups.
An alternative to disabling the 12V battery is to remove the HEV fuse, generally located in the engine compartment junction box. When in doubt pull all fuses in this box.
Stabilize the vehicle. Crib at four points directly under the front and rear pillars. Do not place cribbing under high-voltage power cables, exhaust system or fuel system.