GreenHybrid - Hybrid Cars - View Single Post

Tim K · #2 (**permalink**) 08-29-2006, 09:58 PM

NOTE: You will see reduced mileage during the vehicle's break-in period. This is even stated in the owner's manual. Don't be surprised to see numbers in the mid 20's until you hit 1,000 miles. You will then continue to see improvement as you pass 3,000 miles. I went from 24mpg to 31 mpg over the course of my first 3,000 miles without changing my driving techinques.

As for short trips....

Short trips = low MPG

The system is designed to start the engine every single time you turn the key. The engine will run until the catalytic converter comes up to operating temperature in order to reduce emissions. From cold starts it will run for several minutes. If you just went into the store and restart, the engine will only run for a few seconds. That said, the moral of the story is don't sit there and let it run. If the engine is running you want to be driving to maximize fuel economy. Don't start the vehicle until you are ready to drive. Make sure your seatbelt is on, mirrors are adjusted, radio is tuned in, garage is open, etc. Then start the vehicle and pull right out.

You will see a significant reduction in your mileage with multiple short trips. I have learned to take advantage of my keyless entry pad on the door. When I drop my son off at daycare I leave the key turned "on", lock the doors, and take him inside. I'm almost always back out to the vehicle before the engine ever comes back on. I punch in my code, get in, and silently pull out of the lot. Just remember to turn off the radio, lights, etc as they will both alert people to the fact that your keys are in the vehicle PLUS they will drain the battery and may trigger an engine start-up to recharge the HV battery.

There are plenty of other tips to be found here. Read them all and start practicing. Just don't obsess about the MPG until you hit 3,000 miles or you'll just make yourself nutty. Now is the time to practice and learn.

Enjoy!