Hydraulic Hybrids

[Chupacabra]

Friend at another site posted this...

The claim seems outrageous; when I googled Hydraulic Hybrid I did come back with actual information on it but it indicated the gas savings was up to 40% on most sites. I'm not sure where they're getting their 400% figure, unless it's a typo- but then they multiply the error out and claim a 60mpg pickup truck. I'd be the first in line for one of those, lol....

http://www.newtechspy.com/articles06/hydraulichybrid.html

[drivin98]

Looks like that site stopped updating in 2006.

[KarenRei]

Hydraulic hybrids are legit. They're more efficient than charging NiMHs directly, but less efficient than an ultracap/li-ion combo. They also let you have a hybrid without needing an electric drivetrain. Near worthless on the highway, mind you (unlike conventional hybrids, which get an efficiency boost from having a smaller gasoline engine), but they help in city driving.