The principle of operation of a Toyota hybrid car. Toyota Prius Hybrid: owner reviews, specifications and fuel consumption

20.10.2019

Toyota Prius is currently the best-selling hybrid car on the planet. Since 1997, over 2 million hybrids have been sold. For the first three years, the car was sold exclusively in Japan. Today Toyota Prius can be bought in Russia. The mass hybrid survived three generations. In 2014, another restyling of the model took place.

The principle of operation of the Toyota Prius hybrid power plant is as follows. A 1.8-liter petrol engine with just 99 horsepower sends torque to a generator, which in turn charges a nickel-metal hydride high-voltage battery. The Prius battery powers the electric motors that power the car. The most interesting thing is that the latest generation of the hybrid can also be charged from a regular household outlet, which makes the car even more economical. Also, when braking, kinetic energy, through the recuperation system, slightly recharges the battery. That is, the Prius has two braking systems, regenerative and conventional friction, which starts to work with heavy braking.

Many are primarily interested in the dynamic performance and fuel consumption of the Toyota Prius. It's no secret, the Prius's acceleration to hundreds takes just over 10 seconds, and fuel consumption in the city is 3.9 liters, on the highway this figure is slightly less and is 3.7 liters. AI-95 gasoline is used as fuel. The maximum speed of a hybrid car today is 180 km/h

Toyota Prius gasoline engine works autonomously, that is, the computer system itself decides when to turn it on and when to turn it off. In urban traffic jams, the car usually moves on electric traction. As such, the car does not have a gearbox. The electric motor quickly picks up any speed. The power of the electric motor is 60 hp, plus 99 comes from the gasoline unit.

Appearance Toyota Prius determined by the desire to save fuel, so such a streamlined silhouette of the body of the car is not easy. The drag coefficient is 0.25, an important indicator when overcoming air resistance. This determines the entire shape of the body. The latest restyling brought the front of the car to the common denominator of the current corporate style. Therefore, the front end is very similar to the exterior of the Corolla. We are watching photos of the European version of the Prius.

Photo Toyota Prius

Salon Toyota Prius for passengers is not much different from a conventional car. However, the driver lives in a different reality. Dashboard, center console, gear lever, or rather the drive mode selector. All this at first glance is very unusual. Monitors and scoreboards constantly display information about the mode of operation of the electric motor, hybrid power plant. Interior trim materials, according to the manufacturer, are also very environmentally friendly. Photo salon Prius Further.

Photo salon Toyota Prius

Toyota Prius trunk it also differs little from the luggage compartment of a conventional hatchback, and the ability to fold the rear row of seats makes the car very practical in everyday life. The volume of the luggage compartment is 445 liters, which is a good indicator considering that there is a high-voltage battery under the trunk floor. Prius trunk photo see below.

Photo trunk Toyota Prius

Specifications Toyota Prius

Specifications of Toyota Prius very interesting. The hybrid is less than 4.5 meters in length, while the wheelbase is 2.7 meters, which makes the interior of the car very spacious. The mass of the machine is almost 1.5 tons. The ground clearance of the Prius is not large, only 140 mm. Although why a high ground clearance for a car that was created as an exclusively city car, under the wheels of which there should always be smooth asphalt.

The Prius 4-cylinder gasoline engine is a 16-valve DOHC with a variable valve timing system VVT-i, a displacement of 1.8 liters. With a power of 99 hp. torque is 142 Nm. We add to this an electric motor that produces 60 hp. at 207 Nm of torque and we get a fairly dynamic car.

Toyota Prius transmission It has exclusively front-wheel drive. In addition to the gasoline unit and electric motor, under the hood of the car is also a hybrid continuously variable transmission. Therefore, in the engine compartment, as they say, "the apple has nowhere to fall." Below are the detailed dimensions of the Prius.

Weight, volume, clearance, dimensions Toyota Prius

Length - 4480 mm
Width - 1745 mm
Height - 1490 mm
Wheelbase - 2700 mm
Front and rear wheel track - 1525/1520 mm
Overhang front / rear - 925/855 mm
Cabin length - 1905 mm
Cabin width - 1470 mm
Cabin height - 1225 mm
Toyota Prius trunk volume - 445 liters
Fuel tank volume - 45 liters
Tire size - 195/65 R15
Ground clearance or ground clearance Toyota Prius - 140 mm

Options and price Toyota Prius

Toyota Prius price in the basic version today is 1,245,000 rubles. For the money, you get a well-packaged 5-door hatchback. The initial configuration of "Elegance" includes a fairly large set of options, including -

15" alloy wheels
Power folding side mirrors with heating and repeaters
LED daytime running lights
Fog lights
Rear View Camera
6.1 inch color LCD display in the center console
Climate control
Tilt and reach steering column
Touch control system on-board computer on the steering wheel (Touch Tracer)
Front airbags
Curtain in the luggage compartment
Smart Entry Vehicle Access System (Driver's Door)
Polyurethane multifunction steering wheel
Starting the engine "Push Start" (button start)
Eco drive support monitor
Head Up Display
Audio system with CD/MP3/WMA support 6 speakers
Side airbags
Curtains for all rows of seats
Driver's knee airbag
Emergency Brake Assist (BAS)
Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD)
Rear light-emitting diode (LED) lights
Traction Control (TRC)

But this is not the limit, there are two more configurations, these are “Prestige” for 1,451,000 rubles and “Lux” for 1,595,000 rubles. A feature of the Prestige package is the presence of LED headlights, rain and light sensors, cruise control, an advanced audio system and a leather interior.

The “Lux” version will please with the presence of a sunroof and a solar panel on the same roof. The energy of the solar battery in this configuration goes to the operation of the automatic air conditioning system in the cabin. That is, you can leave the car in the parking lot under the hot sun, and the system itself will cool the interior.

The price of a hybrid Toyota Prius is, of course, higher than that of a conventional car. However, according to the manufacturer, over several years of active operation, it will be possible to save quite a lot of money on fuel. This is especially important in countries where gasoline is quite expensive.

Video Toyota Prius

Video review and test drive of the Prius, we are watching a rather interesting video.

Market prospects for sales of hybrid cars in our country are not as bright as in Japan, Europe or the USA. But hybrid technology does not stand still and continues to evolve. Recall that once mobile phones were not available to the general public, because they cost a lot of money, but the situation quickly improved. Let's hope that hybrid cars will become more affordable just as quickly.

Exactly like the old car. It turns out that the fourth generation hybrid is the result of a deep restyling?

It wasn't there! The fourth Prius is brand new. It is based on the TNGA (Toyota New Global Architecture) modular architecture, on which most of the company's models will be based in the foreseeable future. The share of high-strength steels in the body structure has increased from 3 to 19%, the torsional rigidity of the body has increased by 60% - this is with a curb weight reduced by 50 kg. Instead of a rear beam, the hybrid received an independent suspension, and the traction battery moved from the trunk under the seat. In fact, the former in the new Prius is only an internal combustion engine, and even that was noticeably improved. The Japanese managed to reduce friction losses and increase resistance to detonation. The thermodynamic efficiency of this engine is 40% - a record figure in the entire industry.

Claimed consumption in the region of 3 liters per 100 km - right? And why do the passport values of urban and suburban cycles practically do not differ?

Three liters per hundred, of course, is cunning. At least, . The best result was 3.9 l / 100 km during the haul from Moscow to Dmitrov with an average speed of 55 km / h. The most "terrifying" values on the screen of the trip computer were 5.5 l / 100 km - however, to achieve such a result on the Prius, you need to ruthlessly "bludgeon". Under normal conditions, the consumption in the urban and suburban cycles is really almost identical and is about 4.3–4.5 liters per hundred. Thanks to the regenerative braking system, which works surprisingly efficiently in the city.

Is it possible to pay off the "hybridity" of the Prius due to low fuel consumption?

Let's figure it out together. As a starting point, let's take a 122-horsepower 1.6-liter engine in the maximum configuration of the Prestige. Such a car costs 1,329,000 rubles and, in terms of consumer qualities, is as close as possible to the Prius (the same wheelbase and space in the back seat, the same power, a similar level of finish and equipment). The declared city consumption of a 1.6-liter Corolla in the city is 8.2 l / 100 km. On the highway - 5.3 l / 100 km. Of course, in reality, these values will be higher than stated. So let's take 9 l / 100 km as an average consumption, assuming that our hypothetical owner operates the car mainly in the city (recall, Prius consumption does not depend too much on the cycle and averages 4.5 l / 100 km). Thus, with an annual mileage of 25,000 km, the savings will be 1,125 liters, or 45,000 rubles (we equate one liter of AI-95 to 40 rubles). To compensate for the difference in price between the Corolla (1,329,000 rubles) and the Prius (2,112,000 rubles), it will take more than 17 years. Therefore, buying a hybrid in order to save money is utopian.

Then what's the point of it? What qualities can be written without a shadow of a doubt in the asset of the Prius?

The combination of handling and ride is commendable. The Prius handles even the toughest road imperfections perfectly and remains absolutely alive and fun to drive. Small rolls, rich feedback on the steering wheel. The Prius is also really quiet: you can’t hear the engine at all (unless you want to turn it into a cut-off), and the noise from the road penetrates the cabin only when driving on abrasive asphalt. Add a pleasant, well-finished interior. Plus, some will probably write down a flashy outrageous appearance as an asset to the “Japanese”.

Fine. But what about the obvious cons?

And here, many will also write down the appearance. After the price of more than two million rubles, this is perhaps the next deterrent. In addition, the Prius has a small trunk (only 276 liters according to our measurements). And if we talk about driving properties, the brakes are frustrating. An electric motor can unceremoniously intervene in the braking process at any moment, so that the effort on the pedals “walks”. More recently, I had a chance to experience, which is devoid of such a feature. So, the father of all hybrids has something to strive for. Hybridity as such is no excuse.

What are the prospects for the fourth generation Prius in Russia?

I will be extremely careful in forecasts, but I have no doubt that the fourth Prius will become more popular than its predecessor. The fact is that for the whole of 2016 in Russia, only 16 third-generation hybrids were sold by official dealers. This is an absolute bottom, which the new product cannot break through. Believe it or not, I've even been lucky enough to see a fourth generation Prius on the road. Judging by the license plates, it belonged to a private individual, not to the Russian representative office of Toyota.

Description

The Prius has a gasoline engine and two electric motor generators, as well as a low-capacity 6.5 Ah battery (often referred to as a high-voltage battery, HVB). The electric motor can also work as a generator, converting kinetic energy into electricity and recharging the battery. In this case, electricity can be generated both due to the operation of the gasoline engine, and due to the braking of the car (regenerative braking system). Motors can work both separately and together. The gasoline engine is an Atkinson engine, such engines are economical, but have relatively low power. The operation of all engines is controlled by an on-board computer.

The Prius is easily recognizable by its streamlined shape. The drag coefficient is only 0.26. The conditioner works directly from the accumulator, irrespective of engines.

The cab is equipped with a touch screen display showing engine operation, battery capacity and other parameters. The display allows you to control the audio system and air conditioning, but not the car. The gears (forward, neutral, reverse, power gear) are switched not by the gearbox, but by the joystick located near the steering wheel and the button next to it (for parking). The "handbrake" is made in the form of a pedal under the driver's left foot. The speed is shown by a green digital indicator. The car is opened with an electronic ignition key; in the event of a malfunction, you can get into the salon (but not drive) using a mechanical key. The car is turned on by pressing the Power button while the brake is pressed.

The Prius is highly economical for several reasons:

The efficiency of any gasoline engine is not a constant value, but depends on power. Thanks to the ability to both add power due to the electric motor, and spend part of the power on charging the battery, and also (at low speeds) turn off the gasoline engine altogether and drive only at the expense of electricity, it is possible to optimize engine performance.

During stops in traffic jams, before traffic lights, etc., the engine is switched off. In other cars, it idles, consuming gasoline. In long traffic jams, the life support system (headlights, on-board computer, audio system, brake and steering boosters) “eat up” the battery charge and the engine starts to recharge the VVB, but this is still much more economical than “turning” a 2-liter engine (approximate equivalent of a power plant Prius).

The Atkinson engine is economical on its own. Its low power is a tolerable disadvantage, since additional power can be provided by an electric motor.

During braking and deceleration (e.g. on a steep descent), energy is stored in the battery thanks to regenerative braking.

Low aerodynamic drag reduces fuel consumption, especially at high speeds or in strong headwinds.

Some models are equipped with an EV button that activates electric vehicle mode. In this mode, the car can smoothly accelerate (up to 57 km / h) and brake, and on free highways with small elevation changes can show high efficiency. An additional plus is the ability to drive into a poorly ventilated garage and not be afraid to be poisoned by exhaust fumes. However, in this mode, in the cold season, the possibilities for heating the interior are limited - all modern cars heat the interior, taking heat from the cooling system, which cools down in a few tens of minutes when the engine is not running.

[edit] BenefitsHigh efficiency, as a result - savings on gasoline costs and the need to stop at the gas station less often.

Low level of air pollution. This is partly a consequence of efficiency (the less fuel is burned, the less harmful emissions), and partly - turning off the engine at stops when gases that are especially harmful to human health enter the atmosphere. Compared to a conventional car, the Prius emits 85% less unburned hydrocarbons CnHm and nitrogen oxides NOx [source not specified 409 days].

Low noise level, for several reasons:

During stops, the engine is turned off.

A quieter electric motor runs in conjunction with, or sometimes instead of, a gasoline engine.

Excellent dynamics:

traction motor always delivers maximum torque

the absence of a gearbox as such (a planetary gear is used)

A high level of safety for the driver and passengers, for several reasons:

Two independent braking systems - regenerative and friction

Heavy machine (1240 kg)

High crash test results for driver and passengers

Electronic ignition key.

[edit] Disadvantages Higher price than conventional cars of the same class. In many countries, however, the high price is partly offset by tax incentives. In addition, the difference in prices is partially or completely compensated by the savings in gasoline.

There is an opinion that the noiselessness of the car can be dangerous for blind or inattentive pedestrians.

Few repairers and workshops repairing hybrid vehicles.

In freezing temperatures, the benefits of a hybrid drive can be lost, as the internal combustion engine is almost always running, producing energy to heat the passenger compartment if it is turned on.

High dynamics is achievable only at low speeds, since at high speeds the entire load falls on a low-power internal combustion engine.

[edit] Criticism Some believe that in the future there will be a problem of disposal of used batteries, as there is already a problem of their "dirty" production. However, Toyota and Honda have made a commitment to recycle used batteries; what's more, they not only accept used batteries, but also pay $200 for each.

In Top gear, Jeremy Clarkson criticized the Prius for not being as fuel efficient or environmentally friendly, as the supply and recycling of all vehicle components, such as batteries, leaves too much of an environmental footprint. On the track, the BMW M3 and Toyota Prius made 10 laps at the same time at a speed of 160 km/h. The BMW M3 followed the Toyota Prius. The BMW was more economical with 19.4 mpg of gasoline, while the Prius was 17.2 mpg of gasoline.

That is, if you want an economical car, buy a BMW M3? - No... Don't change your car, change your driving style.

Original text (English) [show]

If you want an economical car, - buy BMW M3? - No ... Don "t change the car, change your driving style.

[edit] Design features Automatically recharges the battery when braking (regenerative braking).

During dynamic acceleration, both engines combine forces - Hybrid Synergy Drive.

The on-board computer (32-bit processor) supports the optimal operation of the gasoline engine (Atkinson cycle) and the optimal battery charge level (Panasonic, NiMH, 8 years warranty).

The start-stop of the gasoline engine is fully automated, the switching of the “Movement”, “Parking” modes is done using the joystick on the dashboard (Drive-by-Wire).

One of the most relevant technological trends in the global automotive industry is the introduction of "green" technologies. Even effective security systems and state-of-the-art electronic assistants pale in comparison to the advantages offered by electric and hybrid concepts. And it's not just about minimizing the level of environmental pollution. Eliminating or at least reducing the consumption of traditional fuels is also beneficial for the motorists themselves, who can count on significant savings. True, the word "savings" is still reluctantly combined with the prices of energy-saving models. Most of the offers of this class are available to the Russian consumer for 2-3 million rubles. In this context, the choice of a car such as the Toyota Prius Hybrid, the photo of which is presented below, is very attractive.

The model is offered with an initial price tag of 1.2 million rubles. Of course, such a cost cannot be called affordable for a mass car enthusiast, but a reduction in fuel consumption during long-term operation will justify the investment. Moreover, the buyer receives not just a model with an unusual power plant, but a high-quality Japanese car with a hint of premium.

General information about the model

The fashion for hybrid models and electric cars among manufacturers emerged in the early 2000s. Of course, some developments in this area have existed before, but their real implementation in concepts has occurred only in the last 15 years. In turn, the Japanese manufacturer became one of the pioneers in the segment, releasing a hybrid model back in 1997. However, the car appeared on the world market only three years later. At the same time, the same device was retained - the 2000 Toyota Prius Hybrid under the hood contains four components: a traditional internal combustion engine, an electric motor, a high-voltage battery and a motor generator. As you can see, the model combines elements from different powerplant configurations, including both a classic internal combustion engine and a battery.

In terms of appearance, the car can be attributed to the golf class. Although large manufacturers tend to supply exclusively expensive luxury versions with hybrid installations, the Japanese preferred a class close to the general consumer. Actually, this is the reason for the relatively affordable price of a Toyota Prius Hybrid car, the owners' reviews of which are very favorable in relation to the version for 1.2 million rubles, but they also note the wealth of optional equipment in more expensive versions for 2 million rubles .

How the basic version works

Engineers offer two approaches to implement a hybrid design. In the first version, the movement and control of the machine are provided by an electric motor, and the internal combustion engine only supplies the battery. The second option provides for the possibility of equivalent use of both generators. The first two generations have shown the possibility and effectiveness of combining both concepts. To understand how the Toyota Prius Hybrid works in the classic version, it is worth considering the Synergy Drive power plant. The complex includes a 78 hp gasoline engine. With. and a 68 hp battery-powered electric motor. With. Together, this provides the maximum return. You can manage this potential using four modes. At the moment of starting, the ICE installation is turned off, and the electric motor takes over the function of the main drive of the machine. As the power increases, the situation changes: the battery activity decreases, and the gasoline unit comes into play.

The principle of operation of the third generation

Despite the increase in power, the third generation of the model has a high level of fuel efficiency. The version received a 1.8-liter "four", the scheme of which is based on the Atkinson cycle. As the original device suggests, the Toyota Prius Hybrid also received a battery that is activated as needed. The features of the third generation also include the use of an electric cooling pump and an improved exhaust recirculation system. As for driving modes, in this case, three methods are assumed. The first mode (EV) is designed for driving in a low speed range with a battery connected. This is followed by an enhanced mode, which allows you to increase the sensitivity of the accelerator for a sporty ride. The most economical is Eco Mode, which achieves the most rational ratio of energy expended and the power demands of the car in the process of movement.

Technical parameters of the model

With all the features of the internal filling, the platform and the main structure of the car are made according to the traditional scheme. At the same time, the exterior looks rather unusual, which, in turn, gives another zest to the Toyota Prius Hybrid. The technical characteristics of the model look like this:

The body of the hybrid is a 5-door hatchback.
Length - 445 cm.
Width - 172.5 cm.
Height - 149 cm.
Luggage compartment volume - at least 408 liters.
Wheelbase - 270 cm.
Rear track - 148 cm.
Front track - 150.5 cm.
Clearance - 14.5 cm.
Suspension - spring independent at the front and semi-independent at the rear.
Gearbox - direct planetary.
Brakes - disc.

Battery specifications

The manufacturer uses batteries from NiMH and Panasonic, which have an 8-year warranty. Actually, thanks to these elements, the cost-effectiveness of modifying the Toyota Prius Hybrid car is ensured. The specifications of the batteries used are as follows:

Capacity - from 6 to 21 Ah.
The time to complete a full charge is 90 minutes.
Weight - from 45 to 80 kg, depending on the version.
The number of modules in the battery is from 28 to 40.
The number of segments in the module is 6.
The voltage in the segment is 1.2 V.
Total voltage - from 206 to 288 V.
Spare battery energy - a maximum of 4.4 kWh.

Technological features of operation

In the view of most motorists, the main difference between hybrid models is their efficiency. Nevertheless, there are other nuances of operation that the Toyota Prius Hybrid has. The principle of operation, in particular, determines a fairly high level of automation of control, for which you should be prepared. For example, the on-board computer independently regulates the parameters of the engine, thus ensuring optimal battery performance. For example, when the vehicle is stopped, the system activates regenerative braking, through which the battery is recharged automatically.

Other useful solutions are offered, including a distance control sensor, automatic seat belt tensioner, seat adjustment and optimal adjustment of pedal sensitivity in a Toyota Prius Hybrid. Owner reviews also highly appreciate the work of intelligent assistants, which allow you to easily park and use the rear view camera.

Fuel consumption

Even against the background of other representatives of the hybrid segment, the Japanese model shows good savings. In the city, the car in the basic version consumes about 8 liters, and outside the city even less - 5.5 liters. In addition, in terms of emissions of harmful substances, the engines used by the Japanese significantly exceed the Euro-4 standards. At the same time, the third generation has even lower fuel consumption. The Toyota Prius Hybrid in this version, when driving around the city, shows consumption at the level of 4.9 liters, and on the highway - 4.6 liters. Such an achievement was made possible not only thanks to the power plant. To make up for the increased engine power, the engineers used heavy-duty aluminum alloys in the construction. This made it possible to reduce the mass of the hybrid, which is 1.5 tons.

Dynamic indicators

The widespread adoption of green technologies in the automotive industry is hampered by two factors constraining demand. Among them, as already noted, the price, as well as modest speed performance. However, the Japanese manufacturer was able to get rid of these shortcomings, as evidenced by the dynamic response: the Toyota Prius Hybrid has a decent maximum speed of 170 km / h and good acceleration - up to 100 km / h the “Chinese” accelerates in 11 seconds.

In part, such high performance of the hybrid is due to the lightweight design, but the influence of the technological features of the model should not be ruled out. For example, a high-torque electric motor provides a quick response, and the absence of a traditional gearbox optimizes the interaction between the driver and the power plant. Also, do not forget about the electronic systems that complement the SUV for the Toyota Prius Hybrid. Owner reviews speak of the practical benefits of assistants in the process of movement. They not only improve safety, but also make the hybrid easier to drive.

Plans for the further development of the hybrid

In the development of new modifications, the company focuses on several areas. The most important thing at the moment is to improve the model. Work on this part is done by designers who design the exterior. In the first generations, the creators managed to achieve a significant result in the form of a decrease in the aerodynamic drag coefficient, which is currently optimal for the Toyota Prius Hybrid model. The principle of operation based on alternative power sources will also be developed, including through solar panels. Engineers are actively engaged in designing ways to install them on the roof. As expected, due to this element, the car will be able to ensure the operation of the climate control system.

Positive feedback from owners

Most of the positive reviews about the model are due to the advantages provided by the power plant. Compared to traditional gasoline cars, this car is much more economical to operate. And it's not just about lowering fuel costs for a five-door like the Toyota Prius Hybrid. Owner reviews indicate that the model does not require oil changes so often, and also eliminates the repair of the starter and generator, which are simply not available under the hood. In addition, the advantages of the car in terms of equipping with the latest optional devices are noted.

It is worth noting the advantages of the car in terms of operation in Russia. What is especially pleasant for the domestic car owner: even severe frosts do not affect the performance of the Toyota Prius Hybrid crossover. Owner reviews in winter confirm that the car starts up without problems and only requires interior heating for a comfortable ride.

Negative Feedback

Of course, the high cost repels many from such a purchase. Although compared to other hybrids, this option can be called the most affordable, this car is still more expensive than its gasoline counterparts. There is also criticism regarding the problems of disposal of spent hybrid batteries, but these problems are more of concern to environmental organizations than to car owners.

Conclusion

There are no models in the “green” car segment on the Russian market that could fully compete with the Japanese development. It is not for nothing that the reviews for the Toyota Prius Hybrid are mostly positive. The car is distinguished by savings in operation and maintenance, but at the same time it provides almost all the functionality that conventional gasoline models have. Of course, when buying, you will have to prepare a large amount of money, but the hybrid will certainly pay for itself during long-term operation. New technologies are expensive, but the benefits of switching to more advanced vehicles cannot be overestimated.