The point at which a hybrid car switches from electric mode to using its gasoline engine can vary depending on the specific hybrid model and its design. Different hybrid systems operate in different ways, with factors such as driving conditions, battery state of charge and power demand affecting the switch between electric and gasoline power.
Generally speaking, most hybrid vehicles are designed to operate in pure electric mode at low speeds (usually up to a certain threshold). Once that speed is exceeded or more power is required, the gasoline engine kicks in to provide additional propulsion or support.
For example, many hybrid vehicles can operate in electric-only mode at low speeds, such as during city driving or at speeds below 20-30 mph. When you accelerate hard or reach higher speeds, the gasoline engine may kick in to provide the necessary power.
It's worth noting that advances in hybrid technology have led to changes in the way different hybrid models operate. Some modern hybrids are designed to run in electric mode at higher speeds or for longer periods before starting the gasoline engine. Additionally, plug-in hybrids allow you to drive a certain distance in electric-only mode before relying on the gasoline engine.