In a review of the HiHy by a Florida newspaper, the writer said:

But be prepared because it takes a few seconds longer to get the electric motor going than it does a gas engine. The reward for your patience is near total silence and a mileage rating you'd expect in a compact car not a midsize SUV.

I have no idea what this person means by a delay. Yes, if you turn the key but don't go anywhere, then it takes a few seconds for the gas engine to turn on by itself. But if you wanna go, the HiHy moves as quickly as you can turn the key and shift into gear.