Engine being used with full battery

Also using the front defroster will kick the engine on.

 

This is not the right time of year to figure out how the prime works.
It will work much differently as spring rolls around into summer.

This time of year the engine turns on when the computers detect a component is below the threshold temperature. If the car sits overnight during the winter, even while it being charged, the traction pack temperatures get pretty low and EV performance and range are adversely effected.

One of the main features of the DrPrius app is the traction pack battery temperature. You'll see that when traction pack temps are between 80 - 90 degrees F most drivers will experience the Pimes best performance.
When temps start falling and traction pack temps are in the 50s F most drivers will notice both decreasing performance and EV mile range. At 37 F (and below) ambient (outside) temps, the temperature gauge on the dash will blink for a few seconds, when you first turn on the Prime.

 

In my case, the front defogger turns on the ICE even in the EV mode.

 

EV driving may be canceled automatically in the following circumstances:

• When vehicle speed is more than approximately 135 km/h (84 mph).
• When power is needed temporarily, for example when the accelerator pedal is depressed firmly or when accelerating suddenly. (EV auto mode only)
• When the temperature of the hybrid system is high.
  • The vehicle has been left in the sun, driven on a hill, driven at high speeds, etc.
• When the temperature of the hybrid system is low.
• When the heater is switched on when the outside temperature is below about −10 ℃ (14 ℉).
• When the windshield defogger switch is pressed.
• When the system determines that the gasoline engine needs to be started.

HINT: The gasoline engine may also operate in circumstances other than those listed above, depending on conditions.

 

duplicate post