Abstract: A hybrid vehicle is provided, which includes an electric motor, an engine, first and second electrical storage mechanisms, an energy conversion device and a voltage reducer. The electric motor and the engine are drivably connectable to propel the vehicle. The first electrical storage mechanism powers the electric motor. The energy conversion device is continuously coupled to the engine for providing a charging power output to the first electrical storage mechanism whenever the engine is running. The second electrical storage mechanism provides power to vehicle accessories at a lower voltage than the first electrical storage mechanism. The voltage reducer has an input coupled to the generator and the first electrical storage mechanism and has an output coupled to the second electrical storage mechanism to provide charging power at the lower voltage to the second electrical storage mechanism.

Abstract: A vehicle having an electric hybrid power system. By The vehicle includes an electric motor and an engine, both of which are drivably connectable to propel the vehicle. The vehicle further includes a battery for powering the electric motor and a single generator continuously coupled to the engine for providing a charging power output to the battery whenever the engine is running. A voltage reducer is coupled to both the single generator and the battery and has an accessory voltage output, which has a lower voltage than the charging power output of the single generator.

Abstract: A vehicle having an electric hybrid power system is provided. The vehicle includes an electric motor drivably connected to one or more ground engaging wheels. A battery pack stores electricity to power the electric motor. An engine is drivably connected to the wheels with an alternator connected to the engine for recharging an accessory battery. The alternator has at least a voltage output range of between approximately the standard output voltage of the accessory battery and the standard output voltage of the battery pack. In accordance with the present invention, a mechanism for electrically connecting the alternator to the battery pack is provided such that the alternator alternatively recharges both the battery pack and the accessory battery.