Wow, I was very surprised to read that if the traction battery dies you are out of luck. To me, that could have actually swung my decision if I knew about it ahead of time. The last thing I need is for that battery to die and have to waste time and money towing to a dealer to spend more money to have then charge the battery. I stand by the "why would Toyota do that?" comment.

Is there a battery gauge anywhere for the 12v accessory battery? I'm installing a sub and amp and don't exactly want to kill my 12v battery. Is the 1kw of charge about the same as what an alternator would provide in a standard non-hybrid?

Does the main hybrid battery drive the lights and other operations after the car is started? I know you mentioned the charging of the 12v battery after power up.

Sorry for my lack of understanding in this area.

Thanks,
Mike