When accelerating from a stationary position and travelling at low speeds, hybrid cars are powered by the electirc motor (which draws on the battery power). This is one reason why hybrids are particularly efficient during city driving.

When cruising, hybrids are powered mainly by the combustion engine as this is where the combustion engine works most efficiently. Depending on the driving condition (road gradient, engine load) the vehicle may seamlessly transition between petrol and electric power at speeds of up to 120kph.

When you have your foot down firmly on the accelerator pedal, both the combustion engine and electric motor work together to maximise the power output to the wheels. This is thanks to the clever transmission, which combines the torque output of each powertrain at the same time.

Whenever you apply the brakes or take your foot off the accelerator pedal, hybrid cars do two things: they stop feeding power to the wheels and use the power of the rotating wheels to recuperate energy while slowing down the car. This produces electricity which is used to recharge the battery for later use. This is known as regenerative braking.

Whenever you apply the brakes with the intention of stopping completely, hybrids can completely turn off both the combustion engine and electric motor. The battery power is used to continue operating any other vehicle systems you might be using (radio, headlights, air conditioning, etc.)

The Kia Niro has a broad range which includes and the Electric, Hybrid and a Plug-in Hybrid Powertrains. Watch this video to learn more https://youtu.be/UBbCBSr27vM