How Does a Hybrid A/C Compressor Work?

Here’s an in-depth teardown video on how the A/C compressor works from a hybrid car!


Hybrid vehicles are propelled by both the gasoline engine and electric motor. In some modes, the engine is not always running, and an alternative method must be used to compress refrigerant to cool the cabin. In this video, we explore the hybrid air conditioning compressor from a 2005 Honda Accord Hybrid.


The hybrid compressor is essentially two small scroll type compressors adjoined together – the front half is a traditional mechanical compressor, powered through the vehicle’s engine through the accessory belt. The rear half is powered by a 3-phase 144V AC electric motor. It powers a smaller scroll wheel that can assist the mechanical portion with cooling the cabin, or supplement it when the vehicle is in idle stop mode, so the engine doesn’t have to turn on, conserving fuel.


The electric motor is ultimately controlled by the HVAC system in the dash, which determines the cooling demand and sends a signal to the A/C compressor driver, located behind the rear seat. The driver takes 144V DC from the hybrid battery pack and converts it to the 144V AC to a required speed to provide the appropriate refrigerant pressure. A small coolant pump is located on the heater core line that does the same function to circulate engine coolant through the heater core during the winter when heat is required.


Learn how hybrid cars work, with a full teardown of the Honda Accord Hybrid’s system here:
   • How do Hybrid Cars Work?  

Here’s how a traditional A/C compressor works:

   • How an A/C Compressor Works  


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