Prius tackling steep hills

Is the traction control kicking in and cutting power? The skid light blinking is indicative of that.

I've never had a problem w/this but, IIRC some suggest backing up.

 

1) Check the condition of your tire tread depth (especially the front tires) and buy new tires if needed to improve traction.

2) If your tires are in good condition, then try backing up your driveway if practical. When the front axle is lower than the rear axle, vehicle weight will shift to the front axle, thus improving traction.

 

The situation you describe is not related to the ICE (petrol engine) starting, other than the part about hearing it run. What you are experiencing is Traction Control, which kicks in when either of the front tires lose traction. It works like ABS in reverse, cutting power to the drive wheels when traction is lost.

To avoid this problem you have three four options:

1) Get better tires.

2) Pave your driveway.

3) Trade your Prius for a Jeep.

4) Move to a house with a flat driveway.

#1 seems like the best option.

Tom

 

Have you tried switching the car into EV mode and driving up the slope slowly this way?

 

Gen II doesn't have the option of switching modes.

 

...in North America. In other regions the Gen II shipped with the EV switch.

Tom

 

Sounds like most any car trying to go up a steep snow or loose gravel covered hill Did the OP's prior vehicle slip and spin on the way up and what kind of vehicle was it?

With no other information, I also vote for the tires.

 

I read that the poster is based in Australia and assumed would have a RHD Prius which should have the EV switch.

 

Well that explains it. The OP probably has a roo stuck under his tyres.

Tom