Toyota has an EV option!!??!!

Well, here comes a whole new debate on the EV switch... The interesting thing is the first I have heard of this was in a TV ad. Not that I expect to be given prior knowledge of all that Toyota is up to, but as a tech, it would be nice if they at least dropped us a hint. :huh:

Whether or not an EV switch will be added to the new Prius, I have no clue. The last information I had from Toyota was that EV switches void the warranty on the HV system on US Prii. I have heard arguements that "Since the addition of an EV switch works, the software is already in place and therefore should have no negative effects." Toyota's official line was to disagree. Now they have installed the very same switch on the Highlader Hybrid. :blink:

I would caution, however, that without knowing the software programming differences between the Prius and the Highlander, you might still want to avoid adding an EV switch. I don't know the politics behind the decision to add this option, so my intention is to simply keep doing my job and let the more confused minds figure out the policy making.

I remain, as always, ready to offer advice and assistance to any and all who might ask for it. B)

 

<div class='quotetop'>QUOTE(SureValla @ Nov 10 2007, 08:28 PM) [snapback]537829[/snapback]</div>

I work at a dealership and I have spoken with Toyota's technical assistance representatives, (the guys who teach the Toyota technical classes and help us solve the really tricky issues) I have been told repeatedly that if someone installs any sort of mod or switch which changes the operation of the HV system (i.e. EV switch ) VOIDS the factory warranty on the HV system as a whole. That would include the HV ECU, the HV battery and the HV Battery ECU.

I don't claim to be any sort of authority or representative of Toyota. I am simply a tech who seriously likes Hybrid systems and I get an ego boost from being able to offer advice and information to help out Hybrid owners. I would still advise against modifying the HV system on ANY Hybrid vehicle. Whatever the reason, modifications on an HV system can be dangerous and cause premature failure.

If you aren't 100% positive of what you are doing, DON'T DO IT!! The High Voltage can KILL YOU!

...... and yes, I am aware that the installation of an EV switch does not involve the HV cables, battery or invertor.



My concern is.... what will the next popular mod involve?

 

<div class='quotetop'>QUOTE(SureValla @ Nov 11 2007, 01:47 PM) [snapback]537990[/snapback]</div>

I specifically asked them about the Coastal mod (added in by way of the cruise control, high beam flash or by installing a momentary switch such as from Radio Shack or bought from overseas to imitate the operation of the non US Prius which have the factory EV switch) the Toyota standpoint is that any sort of modification which affects the operation of the HV system voids the warranty.
I have seen photos on the web where some people have bought the actual factory EV switch from overseas. The thing is there is no provision in the US wiring harness for this switch. Those who install this switch and tap into the factory wiring harness have asked how they can get the illumination portion to work normally. So far, I have seen no way to make it operate the same way as the overseas Prius since the wiring and the ECU software are different.