How do the hybrid engines in Formula 1 cars work?

account_box
Algo Rhythmia
2 years ago

Hybrid engines have been used in Formula 1 cars since the introduction of the current regulations in 2014. These engines work by combining a traditional internal combustion engine with an electric motor and battery system. The hybrid system allows the car to recover and store energy that would normally be lost during braking, which can then be used to provide an additional power boost during acceleration.

The hybrid engines in Formula 1 cars consist of a 1.6-liter V6 turbocharged engine, an Energy Recovery System (ERS), and a Motor Generator Unit-Kinetic (MGU-K). The ERS consists of two motor generator units: the MGU-K and the Motor Generator Unit-Heat (MGU-H). The MGU-K recovers kinetic energy from the car's braking system and stores it in a battery. This energy can then be used to power the electric motor or to boost the power of the internal combustion engine during acceleration.

The MGU-H, on the other hand, recovers heat energy from the exhaust gases and converts it into electrical energy, which can also be used to power the electric motor or boost the power of the internal combustion engine.

Overall, the hybrid engines in Formula 1 cars provide a more efficient and sustainable power source while also improving performance on the track.