Mild hybrid (MHEV) -The engine always powers the car, assisted by a small electric battery 12v/48v. when accelerating etc. This boost from the battery reduces the engine’s workload. Energy otherwise lost when braking is used to recharge the battery.
Full hybrid (FHEV) – Can run on electric power over short distances. boost from the battery can also help when accelerating, with a larger battery than a MHEV. The electric motor sources energy from either the battery or the engine whilst driving. As with a mild hybrid, full hybrids self-charge by harnessing energy otherwise lost while braking or driving.
The kia Sportage FHEV can accelerate from 0-60 in 7.2sec
Plug-in hybrid (PHEV) – The most expensive type of hybrid to buy, take full hybrid technology a stage further – they self-charge but can also be recharged from an external electricity supply. Their larger batteries mean PHEVs have a longer all-electric range than a full hybrid.
The Sportage PHEV takes 7.9sec due to the extra weight