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Electric motor noise of gen 3 vs gen 4

Discussion in 'Gen 3 Prius Technical Discussion' started by meeder, Jun 7, 2021.

  1. meeder

    meeder Active Member

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    Did anyone compare the noise of the electric motors between the gen 3 and gen 4 Prius?
    To my the gen 3 transaxle seems to create more electric motor "whine" when accelerating gently than the gen 4. I am not talking about full throttle max rpm accelerating but normal accelerating where you keep the gauge at the top end of the ECO area.
     
  2. Mendel Leisk

    Mendel Leisk Senior Member

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    The 4th gen transaxle is a complete redesign; wouldn’t be surprised. 3rd gen has everything along a single shaft with all the gears and goodies. 4th gen has two side-by-side shafts.
     
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  3. jerrymildred

    jerrymildred Senior Member

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    Yes, the Gen 4 is quieter in that regard, possibly because of that redesign Mendel mentioned. Also, MG2 is smaller and has less torque but spins faster in the Gen 4. That could be a factor.
     
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  4. meeder

    meeder Active Member

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    Thanks for the info. The higher rpm of the electric motors cause it to make a higher pitched noise which is easier to isolate I guess.