Quote:
Originally Posted by talmy
Toyota says that EV mode (with the switch) won't generally improve mileage. Don't forget that all power must eventually come from the ICE and that since the ICE must be warmed up anyway that it might as well be driving the wheels. In other words, don't sweat this and enjoy the drive!
|
It's not meant to improve mileage (although it might in extreme cases) but it's there to prevent your mileage from tanking further than it would without it.
Quote:
Originally Posted by 07CamHybrid
I don't really see the point of the button- it's only good in a few situations. It won't work in any of the following situations:
-It won't work if your speed is 25mph or greater.
-It won't work if the traction battery is low.
-It won't work if the engine is warming up.
-It won't work if the defogger is on.
-It won't work if the gas pedal is depressed firmly.
-It won't work if the hybrid system temp. is too high / too low.
(Source: Toyota Iguide http://www.toyotaiguide.com/iGuide_HighHy.htm)
So the only real circumstances that the EV button would actually work would be in parking lots or if you are driving very slowly- and the Camry Hybrid will most likely be cruising in electric-only mode anyway.
So in the original poster's scenario where they would use it while driving down the half-mile street near your house in the morning- the EV button wouldn't work because the gas engine would still be warming up. |
You make it sound like it's worthless. Try a car with the EV button then you'll see where and when you can use it.
You can engage EV Drive Mode
before the engine starts so he can cruise the half mile street in the morning in EV Drive Mode. Then once he hits the main street, he can let the engine warm up.
Also, you can accelerate harder in EV Drive Mode than you can without it. Anything harder than a feather will engage the engine but in EV Drive Mode, it'll keep the engine off.
Mods: EV mod, VVT-i emblem, sport pedals, OEM cargo mat, JDM Prius interior footwell lighting, Sylvania Silverstars 9003ST, DICE iPod kit, OEM all-weather mats, TomTom ONE v2, LED licence plate lights.