1. Variable Operating Conditions: Hybrid vehicles operate under varying conditions, switching between electric and internal combustion modes. This variation can affect the efficiency and longevity of catalytic converters.
2. Cold Start Emissions: During cold starts, when the engine is first turned on, emissions are typically higher because the catalytic converter has not yet reached its optimal operating temperature. Hybrid vehicles can mitigate this issue by using electric propulsion during initial acceleration, giving the catalytic converter time to warm up.
3. Regenerative Braking: Hybrid vehicles use regenerative braking to recover energy, which can reduce the load on the engine and, consequently, lower emissions. This process indirectly benefits catalysis by reducing the amount of exhaust gases that need to be treated.
