First commute into London

I'd had my Prius for less than two days before making its first journey into London. I actually work in West London so don't go near the congestion charging zone, but this commute in heavy traffic was the main reason for buying a Prius (as well as not having to use the train and underground!).

25 miles and one hour later, and I saw a scarcely-believable 64.9mpg on the display. It's all about that little EV button though. Too often under a light throttle the Prius starts the engine, but keeping it in electric mode means far greater economy. I wasn't really trying hard either, but with a bit of training - and increased tyre pressures - that figure could still improve.

Coming home I used a different route (mostly motorway/freeway) and still saw 55.4mpg but with a fully charged battery for tomorrow. Must also say the car was fab to drive next to my Audi A3; rides nicely, very light steering and the elevated driving position is just great.

 

Hi there, thanks for the welcome! Need to get some more UK drivers here as there's few sites in the UK for the Prius.

I've read about increasing the tyre pressures and will do this at the weekend - I can then do back-to-back comparisons next week. I take it if you're in Cambs, your 15-mile commute isn't into London at all?

Regarding the congestion charge, I'm quite sure it only applies Monday thru Friday as you said. We used to visit my sister-in-law who lived in Rotherhythe, and would drive all the way down the A1 and cross at Tower Bridge - but only at weekends. I would check the TfL website (Home | Transport for London) to be sure though!