Hybrid Synergy Drive Operation - Toyota PRIUS 2012 Manual

Hybrid Synergy Drive Operation

Once the READY indicator is illuminated in the instrument cluster, the
vehicle may be driven. However, the gasoline engine does not idle like a
typical automobile and will start and stop automatically. It is important
to recognize and understand the READY indicator provided in the
instrument cluster. When lit, it informs the driver that the vehicle is on
and operational even though the gasoline engine may be off and the
engine compartment is silent.
Vehicle Operation
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PRIUS c
With the , the gasoline engine may stop and start at any time
while the READY indicator is on.
•
Never assume that the vehicle is shut off just because the engine is off.
Always look for the READY indicator status. The vehicle is shut off when
the READY indicator is off.
•
The vehicle may be powered by:
1. The electric motor only.
2. A combination of both the electric motor and the gasoline engine.
•
The vehicle computer determines how the vehicle operates in order to
improve fuel economy and reduce emissions. Two features on the PRIUS c
are EV (Electric Vehicle) mode and ECO (Economy) mode:
1. EV Mode: When activated, and certain conditions have been met,
the vehicle operates with the electric motor powered by the HV
battery.
2. ECO Mode: When activated, this mode helps enhance fuel
economy on trips that involve frequent braking and acceleration.
Vehicle Proximity Notification System
A new feature on the 2012 PRIUS c is the vehicle proximity notification system
that emits a sound when the vehicle is driven using only the electric motor at
speeds less than 15 mph. The sound is intended to notify pedestrians that the
vehicle is approaching.
Instrument Cluster READY Indicator
EV and ECO Mode Select Switches
Vehicle Proximity Notification System
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