Energy Management: Hybrid & EV Energy Flow, Powertrains & Storage Guide
Energy management is how a vehicle stores, moves and uses energy efficiently, from conventional powertrains to hybrid and electric systems. These guides cover powertrain basics, vehicle dynamics, regenerative braking, batteries and storage, and the sustainability case for electrification.
- Start here
- Powertrains & drivetrain
- Vehicle dynamics & braking
- Batteries & storage
- Sustainability & the future
- FAQ
Start here
Why electrification matters and how hybrids manage energy.
Powertrains & drivetrain
How power gets from the energy source to the wheels.
Vehicle dynamics & braking
Forces, regenerative braking and mechanical system dynamics.
Batteries & storage
The storage technologies behind vehicle energy systems.
Sustainability & the future
Where automotive energy is heading.
Frequently asked questions
What is energy management in a vehicle?
Energy management is the control of how a vehicle stores and uses energy, such as deciding when a hybrid uses its engine, motor or battery, to reduce fuel consumption and emissions.
What is regenerative braking?
Regenerative braking recovers some of a vehicle’s kinetic energy while slowing and sends it back to the battery. Electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles use it.
How does a hybrid electric vehicle recharge its battery?
A hybrid electric vehicle cannot be plugged in. Its battery is recharged through regenerative braking and by the internal combustion engine.
What is the difference between energy and power?
Energy is the ability to do work, while power is the rate at which work is done or energy is transferred.
Prefer a simple list? See every article in the Energy Management category, or browse all categories.