This unique powertrain means your Honda operates with silent, yet highly receptive performance by drawing power from the lithium-ion battery - something that a mild hybrid cannot do. In addition, while running off the battery it is releasing zero tailpipe emissions. You may find yourself in EV mode when cruising out-of-town but typically electric mode occurs over short distances, in low-speed conditions or when accelerating from a standstill such as in urban driving. 

Generally, as speeds and distances increase, and as the battery starts to deplete, the car will shift to hybrid mode. This is where the petrol engine supplies the energy to the generator motor, which in turn creates electricity to power the drive motor and turn the road wheels. When required, this energy will also recharge the lithium-ion battery alongside the regenerative braking system meaning there is no need to plug our full hybrids into the mains supply as they are entirely self-charging.

During constant higher speeds, the drive motor disconnects and the clutch will engage as the petrol engine powers the car directly, like a conventional car. This shift in power delivery enables the hybrid to maintain efficiency even during high-speed travel.