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Mild hybrid (MHEV)

A small electric assist that smooths start-stop and aids the engine, but never drives alone.

A mild hybrid adds a small motor-generator and a compact battery, often a 48-volt system, to a conventional engine. It smooths the start-stop system, recovers a little braking energy, and gives the engine a light push during acceleration.

Unlike a full hybrid, a mild hybrid can never move the car on electricity alone. Expect a small fuel economy gain of roughly 1 to 3 MPG and a more refined feel, not hybrid-grade savings.