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Aren't you describing hybrid cars?

He's describing a particular kind of hybrid, where the ICE acts purely as a power generator. Most hybrids don't work this way. They tie the output shaft of the ICE into the powertrain directly, so it can operate the wheels by itself if needed.

This setup allows them to make the electric motors much smaller and let the triple-rotor engine lay down power for acceleration, while the small motors handle the cruising.

The MX-30 R-EV operates the way you describe (https://www.caranddriver.com/news/a42485033/mazda-mx-30-r-ev...)

just wanted to add interesting detail: hybrid cars use slightly different engine construction that is more efficient but lacks power in low rpm making them useless in regular cars albecause you would not be able to move from full stop, hybrids just use electric motor to solve that issue

> He's describing a particular kind of hybrid, where the ICE acts purely as a power generator.

That's pretty much how diesel railway locomotives work, they just ditch the batteries and throttle the engine to control power. For regenerative braking (that isn't) they just have giant resistors with fans.

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