How Does Toyota Hybrid System Work? | Electrified Powertrains Part 1 | Toyota

Summary

This video highlights Toyota's role in the electrification revolution, beginning with the introduction of the hybrid electric powertrain in 1997. It explains how Toyota's Hybrid System (THS) works, allowing vehicles to be powered by a gas engine, electric motor, or both, while never needing to be plugged in. The system uses advanced components like motor generators and a planetary gear set to improve performance, efficiency, and reduce emissions. Toyota's Beyond Zero vision aims for a carbon-neutral future, making electrification accessible to all through a range of low and zero-emission vehicles.

Takeaways

• 🔋 Toyota began the electrification revolution in 1997 with the introduction of the hybrid electric powertrain, proving its viability for passenger vehicles.
• 🚗 Toyota has expanded its hybrid EV lineup, selling millions of vehicles globally and constantly improving the Toyota Hybrid System (THS).
• ⚙️ The THS can power the wheels using the gas engine, electric motor, or both, and has been refined for better performance and efficiency.
• 🔌 The hybrid EV THS system never needs to be plugged in, as it charges the battery through engine power and regenerative braking.
• 🔧 Toyota's hybrid EV components, including the battery, are designed for longevity, durability, and reliability, contributing to a carbon-neutral future under Toyota's Beyond Zero vision.
• 🚘 The hybrid EV system is managed by electronic control units (ECUs) that check battery status, engine, and ambient temperature, and control key components like the main relays.
• ⚡ The Inverter Converter manages high voltage flow to and from the motor generators, as well as maintaining charge in the 12-volt battery.
• 🌍 The two-motor design of the hybrid EV system helps balance power and efficiency, using a planetary gear set for power split and Atkinson-cycle cam timing for low emissions.
• 🚙 Toyota’s hybrid EVs can be easily converted to all-wheel-drive by adding a third motor generator to the rear, enhancing traction and power when needed.
• 🌱 Toyota's hybrid EV THS system is just one part of the company's broader electrification strategy, aimed at reducing carbon emissions and achieving a sustainable future.

Q & A

What was Toyota's initial contribution to the electrification revolution?

Toyota helped start the electrification revolution in 1997 by introducing the hybrid electric powertrain, proving its viability for passenger vehicles.

How does the Toyota Hybrid System (THS) operate in terms of power sources?

The THS system operates on a series-parallel design where the vehicle's wheels can be driven by the gas engine, the electric motor, or both, depending on the driving conditions.

Why does the Toyota Hybrid EV system not need to be plugged in?

The Toyota Hybrid EV system charges its hybrid EV battery through engine power and regenerative braking, eliminating the need for external charging.

What role do Electronic Control Units (ECUs) play in Toyota's hybrid vehicles?

ECUs power up when the vehicle's start button is pressed, checking hybrid EV battery status, engine temperature, ambient temperature, and managing high-voltage relays to safely control the power flow.

What safety measures are in place for the high-voltage system in Toyota's hybrid EVs?

If a fault or collision is detected, the relays immediately power down, isolating the hybrid EV battery and shutting off the high-voltage cables to ensure safety.

What is the function of the Inverter Converter in the hybrid system?

The Inverter Converter manages the high voltage flow between the motor generators and the hybrid EV battery and keeps the 12-volt battery charged while the vehicle is running.

How does Motor Generator 1 (MG1) differ from traditional starter motors?

MG1 is more powerful than traditional starter motors and does not require a gear drive. It starts the engine silently and also acts as a generator to charge the hybrid EV battery.

What is the role of the planetary gear set in Toyota's hybrid EV system?

The planetary gear set functions as a power-split device, acting like a continuously variable transmission to balance output between the engine and Motor Generator 2 (MG2).

How does the hybrid EV system capture energy during braking?

MG2 acts as a generator during braking or coasting, capturing energy from the vehicle's momentum to charge the hybrid EV battery through regenerative braking.

How does Toyota's hybrid EV all-wheel-drive system work without a mechanical driveshaft?

Toyota adds a third motor generator, called Motor Generator Rear, between the rear wheels. It provides extra traction and power without a mechanical connection to the front drivetrain, also generating power when coasting or braking.