I do not like the term "heretical mode" because it has negative implications to some people. However, Ed is right on about it's use at the mid speed ranges. In this mode the computer is taking energy from MG2 and using it to reverse turn MG1. The net effect is to reduce the RPM of the ICE shaft (just like overdrive). The objective is to get the computer into this mode under the current driving conditions. I do frequently use this mode in 60 degree weather in western Washington (State) at speeds between 40 and 55. To place the computer in this mode, I accelerate to a speed slighty above the cruising speed desired, then reduce the accelerator demand by backing off the pedal over 1 or 1.5 seconds or so (not instanteanously as that indicates to the computer a coasting condition or glide). You can tell when the car enters the E-Recirc mode becasue the MPG needle "dives" down to the peg at 60. At that point, slowly reintroduce pedal to keep the MPG range between 60 and 40 or so, and also as needed to maintain the desired cruising speed. Be patient and accept slow accelerations when in this mode because if you accelerate aggresively the computer will switch to a pure acceleration mode and remove or reduce the MG1 backfeed, a sort of parallel to downshifting. The center of the speedo panel incation that you have entered this mode is a display of energy flow from both the ICE to the wheels, and from the "battery" to the wheels. In this case the battery graphic does not represent the battery, but is a graphic representation of the MG2 to MG1 electrial interaction.

To drive the TCH (or any Toyota Hybrid) for maximum FE, I thnk it is imperative to understand the PSD. I recommend serious study of the excellent diagrams and animations on the links in Ed's post above.

It is the ignorant among us that will eventually destroy us all.