GaryG:

Thanks for your input. I've read your reply and I hope you are right that it is only battery discharging and not anything more serious.

I've been driving this route for about 2 1/2 months without having any issues. My guess is that of the 15 miles to work, I am in EV mode for about 4-6 miles at various times; down hills, at lights, slow starts from lights, and level areas of 30-35 mph zones. Hopefully, this is simply an occasional occurence of the "battery conditioning" .

I will be paying close attention to my drive home this evening and for the next few days.

Regarding tire pressure, I have read alot ( and been using) of your and others posts regarding techniques for "hypermiling"; 2x braking, fake shift, etc. but I have not yet increased my tire pressures from about 38-39 up to the 44 level you suggested.

Thanks again for your reply. I will update this thread with new info after my ride home and to work tomorrow.