In response to global environmental challenges and increasingly strict emission standards, the automotive sector is intensively seeking alternative propulsion technologies. Achieving zero emissions has become a goal for many countries, and both hybrid and electric vehicles contribute to this objective. In this complex situation, hybrids play an intermediary role between traditional combustion vehicles and fully electric vehicles, filling the "bridge" space to full electromobility.

What Characterizes Hybrid and Electric Drives?

Hybrid drives (HEV - Hybrid Electric Vehicle and PHEV - Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle) combine an internal combustion engine with an electric motor, allowing for reduced CO₂ emissions and lower fuel consumption. In full hybrids (HEV), kinetic energy recovered during braking charges the battery, enabling short distances to be driven electrically, particularly beneficial in urban traffic. Plug-in hybrids (PHEV) allow for longer electric-only trips as their batteries can be charged from the grid, making them even more efficient.

In contrast, fully electric drives (BEV - Battery Electric Vehicle) rely exclusively on battery power, eliminating exhaust emissions during driving. While their efficiency in reducing emissions is undeniable, their broader adoption requires extensive charging infrastructure and stable energy supplies, which remain a challenge in many regions.

Hybrids as a Bridge to Electromobility

Given that full electromobility still faces infrastructural, technological, and economic barriers, hybrids may be an essential transitional solution. By combining a traditional combustion engine with an electric motor, hybrids allow users to gradually adapt to new propulsion technologies without full dependence on charging infrastructure. They are particularly attractive to drivers with limited access to chargers who commute both in cities and on longer routes.

However, despite the many advantages of hybrids, the question remains whether these vehicles are merely a transitional stage on the path to full electromobility or if they could represent a long-term alternative to electric cars. Understanding the benefits and limitations of hybrid and electric drives is key to determining their future role in the automotive industry and identifying which technologies may dominate the market.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Hybrid Drives (HEV, PHEV) and Electric Drives (BEV)

Hybrid Drive (HEV, PHEV)

Advantages:

Fuel Savings: HEV and PHEV hybrids consume less fuel than traditional combustion vehicles, particularly in urban traffic, thanks to the ability to drive electrically at lower speeds.

Lower CO₂ Emissions: The electric motor reduces CO₂ and other harmful gas emissions, especially during short trips.

No Need for Full Charging Infrastructure (HEV): Full hybrids (HEV) do not require external charging, as the battery is charged during driving and braking.

Versatility: Hybrids can be used both in the city and on longer routes due to their dual power source.

Preparation for Electromobility: Hybrids allow drivers to familiarize themselves with electric drive technology without fully transitioning to electric vehicles.

Disadvantages:

Limited Electric Range (HEV): Full hybrids (HEV) have a very limited range when driving on electric power alone, making them dependent on the combustion engine in the long run.

Charging Requirement (PHEV): Plug-in hybrids (PHEV) require external charging, which can be challenging with limited charging infrastructure.

Higher Purchase Costs: Hybrid vehicles are usually more expensive than their combustion counterparts due to more complex construction.

Increased Weight and Reduced Space: Hybrid systems, combining two types of propulsion, are heavier, which can limit luggage space and affect vehicle dynamics.

Ecological Limitations: While hybrids emit fewer emissions, they still rely on fossil fuels, making them not fully ecological.

Electric Drive (BEV)

Advantages:

Zero Emissions: Electric vehicles emit no exhaust gases, making them environmentally friendly, especially in urban areas.

Lower Operating Costs: Electricity is usually cheaper than fuel, and electric motors require less maintenance, reducing usage costs.

Quieter Operation: Electric motors operate almost silently, enhancing driving comfort and reducing urban noise pollution.

Incentives and Benefits: Many countries offer support programs for electric vehicle users, such as tax relief, subsidies, and exemptions from parking and toll fees.

Eco-Friendly Charging: When charged from renewable energy sources, electric vehicles have minimal environmental impact, making them a particularly sustainable solution.

Disadvantages:

Limited Range: Electric vehicles have a limited range, and charging takes longer than refueling combustion vehicles, limiting their usability on long routes.

Lack of Charging Infrastructure: In many areas, charging infrastructure is still underdeveloped, posing a barrier to potential users.

Long Charging Time: Even fast chargers require several minutes to replenish a battery, and standard charging can take many hours.

High Purchase Costs: Despite decreasing prices, electric vehicles remain more expensive than traditional ones, with batteries being a costly component.

Environmental Impact: Producing batteries for electric vehicles involves significant energy and resource consumption, raising concerns about their ecological balance.

Divide into three groups. Each group will explore one of three areas related to drive technologies:

Group 1: Analyze hybrid drives (HEV and PHEV), their advantages, disadvantages, efficiency, and potential impact on the development of electromobility.

Group 2: Focus on electric vehicles (BEV), their efficiency, infrastructure requirements, advantages, and limitations.

Group 3: Conduct an analysis of barriers and challenges, both technological and infrastructural, that stand in the way of full electromobility. This includes requirements for expanding the charging network, impacts on the energy grid, and issues related to battery storage and recycling. Additionally, this group will evaluate whether the current popularity of hybrid drives helps prepare the market and infrastructure for electric vehicles by overcoming some of these barriers.

Each group will create and present a multimedia presentation that comprehensively addresses their assigned topic. Groups will analyze their area from various perspectives, including technical, environmental, economic, and social aspects. In their presentations, students will provide key arguments to answer the question: "Are hybrids a bridge to full electromobility?"

Each group will present their work results to the class, with every team member actively participating in presenting findings, sharing insights, and justifying their position. Presentations will serve as a starting point for further discussion, where all students can ask questions, share opinions, and respond to the arguments of other groups. This format will deepen knowledge, enhance argumentative skills, and improve understanding of the complexities involved in transitioning from hybrid technology to full electromobility.