9
Hybrid system features
WARNING
Some of the components of the
hybrid system (e.g., high voltage
battery, electric motor, etc.) are high
voltage parts. To avoid serious injury or death, carefully read the
following descriptions.
Your vehicle is equipped with a hybrid
system. The main power source for this
hybrid system is the engine though
depending on the circumstances, the
electric motor may assist the power of
the engine. By controlling the interaction
of the engine and the electric motor, high
level of performance, improved fuel economy, and reduction in exhaust emissions
are achieved.
& General information for stopping/restarting of the engine
and electric motor
NOTE
For details about the procedure for
starting the hybrid system, refer to
“Starting and stopping the hybrid system” F7-9.
The engine will be automatically stopped
or restarted depending on the conditions
of the vehicle.
When starting:
The engine is used to start the vehicle
moving. However, when the accelerator
pedal is depressed lightly, the engine may
remain stopped and the electric motor
may be used to start the vehicle moving.
When accelerating gradually or driving
at a constant speed:
. When the vehicle speed is less than 25
mph (40 km/h), it is possible to drive using
only the power of the electric motor.
However, when driving in reverse, the
engine will restart at a speed slower than
that experienced when the vehicle is
moving forward.
. When the vehicle speed is 25 mph (40
km/h) or more, the electric motor power
assists the engine power. However, when
driving uphill, if it is more efficient to drive
using engine power alone, the electric
motor may not operate.
When driving using electric motor
power alone and then accelerating:
The engine is restarted and the power of
the electric motor is added to that of the
engine.
When braking:
The engine is stopped. The electric motor
is used as a generator by using the
rotation of the wheels and this charges
the high voltage battery (regenerative
brake).
When the vehicle has been stopped:
The engine is stopped temporarily. Depending upon conditions, this may also
occur before a complete stop has been
achieved.
Depending on the position of the select
lever and the mode of the climate control,
the engine and the electric motor are
controlled as follows.
When accelerating sharply:
The power of the electric motor is added to
that of the engine.
– CONTINUED –