Faraday Future has reinvented hybrid cars.

Despite the rapid development of hybrids, their powertrains remain complex and expensive due to the large number of mechanical components that combine the internal combustion engine and electric motor. Faraday Future has patented an alternative approach with a new transmission for hybrid and electric vehicles with an extended range.

The key feature of the development is that the engine, generator, electric motor, and drive wheels can operate independently. In traditional hybrid systems, these components are tightly interconnected through complex sets of gears, clutches, and couplings. The new architecture separates their roles, allowing the engine to either directly transmit power to the wheels or be used solely for power generation.

According to the developers, this design allows for the simultaneous use of multiple energy sources when maximum power is needed, or the use of them individually for increased efficiency. The company believes this will help reduce the weight and complexity of the transmission, lower production costs, and improve reliability. Furthermore, the system should be better suited for vehicles operating in cold climates, where batteries lose efficiency more quickly.
The patented transmission will be part of the AIHER (AI Hybrid Extended-Range Electric Powertrain) platform, unveiled by the company last year. It is planned to be used in future production models, including the Super One project.