Final answer:
A hybrid vehicle switches to its internal combustion engine to continue operation and recharge the battery once its electric power range is depleted, offering a seamless transition without stranding the driver.
Step-by-step explanation:
When a hybrid vehicle has been driven its maximum range on electric power alone, the vehicle will switch to using its internal combustion engine. This secondary power source functions to both propel the vehicle and recharge the batteries. Hybrids are designed to optimize fuel economy and minimize emissions by allowing the internal combustion engine to operate at a consistent speed that is most efficient when electric power reserves are depleted.
For drivers concerned about range limitations, plug-in hybrids offer a solution. These vehicles can be driven on electric power alone for shorter distances, and they also have a gasoline engine for longer trips, addressing worries about long-range driving capabilities and battery decline. The transition from pure electric to hybrid mode in these vehicles provides users with a flexible, emissions-friendly driving experience while ensuring they don't get stranded once the electric charge is used up.
Furthermore, advancements in technology are helping to alleviate some concerns over the limitations of electric vehicles, such as utilizing regenerative braking which allows the motor to act as a generator, converting kinetic energy back into electric energy to recharge the battery during driving sessions. This innovation extends the usable life of the battery and maximizes the effective range of the vehicle on a single charge.