From what I understand, there really is no low gear on the CVT. All it does (again, by my understanding) is to manage the regenerative braking differently - it makes it feel like an automatic in low gear by loading up the generator when you let off the gas. I have gotten to where I keep it in low gear anytime I am in city or stop and go highway driving. Keeps me from having to touch the brake pedal at all and charges the battery better than coasting. My mileage has shot up lately, not sure if this is a factor or not.

According to the book, you can put it into 'low" at any speed. I don't think it has any effect at all on the transmission. Someone correct me please if I am wrong.

Ray