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...)