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The very first hybrid gas electric auto did not come out in 1983, but in 1917. The Woods Dual Energy was constructed by the Woods Motor Car Business of Chicago. Due to the fact the gas engine was so rough, but supplied far more power and electric cars were smoother, but had restricted range, the Woods Motor Car Organization wanted to supply a auto that gave you the greatest of each worlds.

The best element is, it was a full hybrid (listen up GM) with regenerative braking. The engine was a parallel hybrid that integrated a 12-hp, four-cylinder gasoline engine as an auxiliary drive system in addition to the electric drive train. The electric engine could propel the car up to 20 mph. Together with the gas engine, the dual wood power could get up to 35 mph.

The gas engine and electric engine have been connected employing a magnetic clutch. The gas engine became magnetized when activated (by a lever controlled by the driver). The copper disk was pulled against the flywheel connecting the electric motor to the gas engine.

Only the electric motor could be employed although going in reverse. Why? Simply because the engine had no clutch and so the gas engine had no gears!

The vehicle battery designed for this auto was about half the size of the batteries in other electric cars of the time. When the automobile got up to 20 mph, the gas engine could be engaged, allowing the electric motor and gas motor to function collectively. The battery could be recharged or discharged by yet another lever. Recharging was done by the gas motor (at speeds more than 6 mph) or by braking on level ground or when coasting down hills. A typical brake pedal was only utilised at speeds of less than 6 mph.

Available for only $2650 (bear in mind this was 1917). Wire wheels were a luxury, costing an added $25. Or you could 'pimp' your vehicle out for another $one hundred (paint and trim).

Eventually, the first hybrid was a commercial failure. It was built only in 1917 and 1918. It was also costly, as well slow, and also hard to service to be a commercial success. commercial gas prices