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To charge or not to charge?

Discussion in 'Gen 1 Prius Plug-in 2012-2015' started by planeflyer, Mar 12, 2012.

  1. planeflyer

    planeflyer Junior Member

    Joined:
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    Canby Oregon
    Vehicle:
    2012 Prius Plug-in
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    N/A
    I have read again the entire thread "How to extend LIMITED SERVICE LIFE of Prius PHV traction battery." I have also read again the owner's manual on charging, particularly page 93 regarding capacity reduction. However, I don't find an answer to a question I have.

    I am retired and there are some days when I don't use my PIP at all. When I do use the PIP, I drive in EV until the battery is depleted and then HV until I return home. When I return, I plug in and leave it until the next time I use the car which may be one or two days later.

    Would it be better to unplug after the charge light goes out which would result in the car being unplugged till I use it again or would it be better to leave it plugged in and unplug just before I use the car? I have no regular use pattern. Some days the car makes 2 or 3 short trips and some days one long trip and some days none at all.
     
    #1 planeflyer, Mar 12, 2012
  2. bisco

    bisco cookie crumbler

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    boston
    Vehicle:
    2012 Prius Plug-in
    Model:
    Plug-in Base
    just leave it plugged in when you're not using it, your pip batteries are going to last forever at the rate you're going. the manual is concerned with people pushing the usage envelope.
     
    #2 bisco, Mar 12, 2012
  3. jbrad4

    jbrad4 Active Member

    Joined:
    Jul 20, 2011
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    Location:
    Rowlett, TX
    Vehicle:
    2012 Prius Plug-in
    Model:
    Plug-in Advanced
    I'm in a similar situation. I teach 2 days a week. I don't do much driving the other days. My Planned approach: When I deplete the EV driving range, I'll charge it a little more than 50 % then a couple hours before I'm ready to go again, I'll charge it the rest of the way up. I'll see how this plan works out in practice. I should get my PiP in about 2 weeks.
     
    #3 jbrad4, Mar 12, 2012
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