The engine-off feature that is typical of HEV saves fuel and engine
hours but also results in cooler operating temperatures of the internal
combustion engine and increases engine stress through the more
frequent starts of the engine
to develop specifically tailored lubricant systems.
Infineum research project
In the fact-finding phase of the project, a
2009 Toyota Camry Hybrid taxi fromNew York
City (NYC), with over 260,000 miles on the
odometer was inspected for hardware distress or
unusual features. Results were compared to those
obtained from a NYC non-hybrid limousine after
200,000 miles of operation. Both vehicles were
lubricated with ILSAC GF-5 SAE 5W-30 oils.
Average sludge and varnish results and wear
on the valve train and piston rings were all slightly
worse for the hybrid engine relative to the nonhybrid engine.
However, it should be noted that the limousine
service was less severe than that of the taxi. Some
unusual broken 2nd land piec