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Side rear-view cameras to remove side mirrors for MPG

Discussion in 'Gen 2 Prius Accessories & Modifications' started by Tekdeus, Mar 11, 2011.

  1. Tekdeus

    Tekdeus Shifted to Green

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    What's the best and most cost effective way to eliminate the side view mirrors? One single wide-angle rear view camera, or 2 cameras in place of the rear view mirrors? Also, where to put the screen on a non-nav Gen II Prius? On the center rear view mirror somehow?

    I was also contemplating how it would be handy to have the JDM-style electronic folding mirrors that could be folded/unfolded from the dash while driving. Any aftermarket versions of this?
     
  2. firepa63

    firepa63 Former Prius Owner

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    Check your MV laws. In some areas a car cannot pass inspection if the side mirror(s) is missing.
     
  3. Tekdeus

    Tekdeus Shifted to Green

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    I've read that mirrors contribute 3-6% to overall CD aero drag. Reflections on side mirrors: testing drag vs. MPG - MetroMPG.com
    Anyone know where to buy very small aero mirrors that might fit the Prius? Similar to this pic but in black? Or if there is another car or Toyota with a similar mirror base to the Prius that could be adapted. These eBay mirrors are available for direct fit on the Matrix, Corolla, etc.

    [​IMG]
     
  4. SageBrush

    SageBrush Senior Member

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    What is the comparison mirror ? I'll bet it is not the pair on the Prius.
     
  5. Rokeby

    Rokeby Member

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    Over at ecomodder.com, the ins-and-outs and legality of side mirror
    removal for greater MPGs is a recurring topic.

    To get you started, here's the results of a search there using
    "side mirrors" as the search term:

    side mirrors - Google Search

    Happy reading!