Don't know for sure, probably not? But it's well documented that this generation FEH has 50 packs of 5ea 1.3V NiMH batteries = ~325V, that fit within the current footprint of the metal case.

All we could tell visually on the 09' is if the case size is the same. They will all get better each model year, kinda like the digital cameras.

 

I do not understant the improved efficiency claim wiht the buck/boost inverter in the 2009. Current models modulate frequency and pulse width to power the stator windings.

Does the 2009 technology boost the dc voltage above 325V?

Does that less the power losses in the buck/booost inverter provide an overall gain in efficiency?

Is the 2009 motor asynchronous and simply changes torque with the DC voltage produced by the buck/boost inverter?

 

Any mention of a dual mode air conditioning that will work while the ICE is off? That's about 20% of the reason I didn't get a 2008 FEH.