GreenHybrid - Hybrid Cars - View Single Post

Jason · #4 (**permalink**) 02-13-2004, 11:57 AM

Here's Mark's response, posted with permission:

Quote:

Jason,

Thanks for taking the time to write. I still believe the Prius is too small and expensive to be the right car for most buyers, although, as I said, the technology is breathtaking.
Mt reference to steel wheels was simply because, due to their greater mass, most companies will not offer them with their hybrid packages. Since aluminum wheels are generally preferred, it never occurred to me to think of this as a downgrade.
Your point about the restart is correct. Although the Prius did restart every time I used the accelerator when turning or pulling away from a traffic light, it doesn't have to if the power requirement is low. I could certainly have put that more clearly in the story.
My understanding is that the battery will not drain to zero, even if you run it when there's no gasoline, however. I believe the electronic controls shut the motor down before it can drain the battery that deeply.
I greatly appreciate the time you took, and hope you believe that I do not have a prejudice against hybrids. I do believe that the Prius requires some compromises - in terms of interior space and price - that are not right for most drivers.
I am very eagerly awaiting the chance to drive the hybrid Lexus RX 400h and Toyota Highlander, which I expect to have all the virtues of a conventional Toyota, plus the benefits of its hybrid leadership.
Thanks for reading the Free Press.

Mark Phelan
Detroit Free Press