Toyota Prius NHW20 Series Dismantling Manual page 2

Foreword
This guide was developed to educate and assist dismantlers in the safe handling of the
Toyota Prius gasoline-electric hybrid vehicle. Prius dismantling procedures are similar to
other Toyota vehicles with the exception of the high voltage electrical system.
important to recognize and understand the high voltage electrical system features and
specifications of the Toyota Prius as they may not be familiar to dismantlers.
High voltage electricity powers an electric motor, generator, electric inverter compressor
(for air conditioner) and inverter. All other conventional automotive electrical devices
such as the headlights, radio, and gauges are powered from a separate 12-Volt battery.
Numerous safeguards have been designed into the Prius to help ensure the high voltage,
approximately 201-Volts, Nickel Metal Hydride (Nigh) Hybrid Vehicle (HV) battery pack is
kept safe and secure in an accident.
The Nigh HV battery pack contains sealed batteries that are similar to rechargeable
batteries used in laptop computers, cell phones, and other consumer products.
electrolyte is absorbed in the cell plates and will not normally leak out even if the battery is
cracked. In the unlikely event the electrolyte does leak, it can be easily neutralized with a
dilute boric acid solution or vinegar.
High voltage cables, identifiable by orange insulation and connectors, are isolated from the
metal chassis of the vehicle
Additional topics contained in the guide include:
•
Toyota Prius identification.
• Major hybrid component locations and descriptions.
By following the information in this guide, dismantlers will be able to handle the Prius
hybrid-electric vehicle as safely as the dismantling of a conventional gasoline engine
automobile.
© 2004 Toyota Motor Corporation
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the written permission
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