Prius User-Guide (2010-2012)
EDUCATION
Real-World Data
Generalization about daily-driving is a major problem when comes to the understanding of hybrids.
Many people assume they have a routine pattern, with a common distance each day. But in reality,
the many demands of life end up causing a wide variety of distances. If you take the time to note
your own driving, you’ll notice many fluctuations, as this real-world data
(from http://john1701a.com)
clearly illustrates:
Because there is a wide variety of daily distances, the resulting MPG fluctuates significantly too:
Operational Info
The information provided by the classic “Energy Monitor” is over-simplified for the sake of making observation of hybrid system
behavior easier while you drive. There are actually two motors which interact with the engine & battery-pack, rather than just the
single one displayed on the screen. The following detail provides a closer look into the flow of power in each of the operational
modes.
Note that the Original, Classic, and Iconic models of Prius all used a reduction-gear between the PSD and the wheels. Starting with
the 2010 model, it was replaced with a second PSD instead (not illustrated below). This provides a more efficient two-speed system.
Stealth or Electric-Only or Reverse
When power to the wheels is supplied entirely by the large motor using only
the battery-pack, it is called “Electric-Only”. This can occur at any speed.
The only requirement is that the use of gas by the engine must cease;
however, the motion of the engine may still continue. When engine activity
stops entirely, the mode is referred to as “Stealth”. This is an ability that is
possible due to the PSD, a special device that “assist” hybrids do not have.
Lastly, since there is no transmission or even any gears that shift, this is
how reverse is provided. The large motor simply rotates backward.
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