Hi Lars-ss:
___First off, your HCH’s CVT is probably locked up with no change in load at its highest gear ratio and you have the most minimal amount of friction from the ICE all the way to the wheels on the ground. Remember that Krousdb’s Prius II record run came at or around the low to mid-30
mph speed as well. The following should help explain the ever larger increases in power needed to overcome simple mechanical friction as RPM’s increase …
http://www.ornl.gov/~webworks/cppr/y2001/rpt/121813.pdf
___The Insight 5-speed’s FE peaks at or around 32 - 34
mph also. Just a touch above lugging in 5th gear and she will average 120 - 130 mpg all day long in warmer temps and no wind … With wind, then you are speaking of some real wild averages ;-)
___Good Luck
___Wayne R. Gerdes
___Hunt Club Farms Landscaping Ltd.
___
Waynegerdes@earthlink.net