Toyota Prius hybrid how it works. The essence of the work of hybrid "hearts

14.10.2019

The critical situation with the environment and the constant rise in fuel prices are forcing transport manufacturers to look for new solutions. Internal combustion engines (ICE) are improved, modified and “mixed” with electric motors. Why this is done, how a hybrid engine works, we will consider in today's publication.

The idea of connecting two units (an internal combustion engine and an electric motor) cannot be called new. In 1897, the French company Parisienne des Voitures Electrics began production of cars with hybrid engines, and a little later, the American General Electric released the first hybrid with a four-cylinder gasoline engine. But then such an innovation turned out to be economically inexpedient. Fuel was cheap, and the power of the hybrid car was inferior to that of traditional models. But times have changed. Fuel prices are rising, the environment is deteriorating. Cars with mixed powertrains became relevant and began to gain popularity.

In simple words about complex

What is a hybrid engine? A hybrid engine is a system consisting of two interconnected units: electric and gasoline. They can work both separately and simultaneously. This system is controlled by the vehicle's on-board computer. He decides, depending on the driving mode, which type of power unit needs to be activated at a particular moment in time.

For urban driving, when the engine is not required to generate high power, an electric motor is used. While driving on country roads, the computer turns off the electric motor and activates the fuel unit.

In a mixed driving mode, when the car's engine is running under load with periodic accelerations and stops, the two units work in tandem. Moreover, during the operation of the fuel engine, the electric one is charging. deserve special attention.

Saving energy in hybrid engines

It is known that a huge amount of energy is expended on the movement of a car. In this regard, a natural question arises: how can an electric motor, even under conditions of low loads, work for a long time without an additional trailer with batteries. To understand the principle of operation of the car's electric motor, you need to trace the whole process from the start of movement to the stop.

When the car starts or moves at low speeds, all the work is carried out by an electric motor, which is powered by a battery. Further, his task is to accelerate the car to the maximum possible speed for the electric motor. After that, the computer gives a command to turn on the fuel engine. At the same time, the internal combustion engine gives part of the energy to the generator, which replaces the battery and continues to feed the electric motor instead of it, simultaneously charging the battery. The car at the same time works on two power units at the same time.

When driving at an average speed, the electric motor is turned off, only the internal combustion engine is running, replenishing the battery energy supply. With an increase in the load on the internal combustion engine, an electric motor comes to the rescue again. But electricity is replenished not only due to the operation of the internal combustion engine. The brake mechanism of a car with a hybrid engine is designed in such a way that the energy generated during braking is converted into electrical energy and also goes to power the electric motor. Such braking is called "regenerative".

The algorithm of work considered above describes the general picture of the operation of a hybrid power unit of a car. To date, there are three types of such motors: sequential, parallel and mixed.

Series hybrid circuit

The principle of operation of such a scheme can be considered the simplest of hybrids. The internal combustion engine in this type is an auxiliary element and is designed to operate a generator. The generator, receiving energy from the internal combustion engine, converts it into electrical energy and feeds the electric motor, which sets the car in motion.

Such a scheme, as a rule, is used in low-power cars (compact cars). But the battery used has a large capacity, with the ability to charge from a conventional power outlet. The large capacity of the battery allows you to minimize the use of internal combustion engines, that is, the car can move on an electric motor that is powered only by the battery. Chevrolet Volt is one of the car models that uses a series hybrid scheme.

Hybrid car parallel circuit

The principle of operation of the parallel circuit is that the internal combustion engine and the electric motor are installed in such a way that it becomes possible to use them both together and separately. But still, the main function of the electric motor in such a scheme is to create additional power of the internal combustion engine during acceleration. Besides the electric motor carries out functions of a starter and the generator. Batteries with this scheme do not require additional recharging, they have enough energy generated during movement.

Honda Insight, Honda Civic Hybrid, BMW Active Hybrid 7, Volkswagen Touareg Hybrid are models with a parallel hybrid engine.

Series-parallel hybrid circuit

In this scheme, the internal combustion engine and the electric motor are interconnected by a planetary gearbox, with the help of which the power from both engines is transmitted to the drive wheels.

The mixed circuit differs from the parallel circuit in the presence of a generator that creates energy for the electric motor.

Toyota Prius, Lexus RX 450h, Ford Escape Hybrid are full hybrids.

Advantages of hybrid engines

The main advantage of hybrids is its economy. The minimum fuel saving is 20%, which is quite a tangible advantage in the face of rising prices.
Sharing two engines reduces CO2 emissions.
Excellent running characteristics, which are achieved thanks to the rational accumulation and subsequent redistribution of the power generated jointly by the two engines.
Compared to a conventional car, the hybrid has a significant range, meaning it can keep going even with an empty tank.
The characteristics of hybrid engines are completely identical to traditional models with internal combustion engines, contrary to prevailing stereotypes, and taking into account other advantages, sometimes even surpass them.
Electric motors are almost silent, which adds comfort during vehicle operation.
Compared to an electric vehicle, the battery of a hybrid is charged by a fuel-powered engine, which increases its range.
Refueling the car is carried out with the same gasoline as traditional cars.

Disadvantages of hybrids

The high cost of the car.
Car maintenance is expensive. It is unlikely that it will be possible to repair such a machine on your own, and it is very difficult to find qualified craftsmen. There will also be problems with components.
Changes in climatic temperatures have a bad effect on the battery and lead to their self-discharge.

Externally, cars with hybrid powertrains do not differ from classic gasoline counterparts. Of course, if models of cars with hybrid engines had the same cost as analogues with internal combustion engines, and maintenance did not cause difficulties, hardly anyone would refuse such a car. But at the moment, the reality is that the difference in the price of a hybrid and an analogue is an average of $ 4,000. Even if we take into account all the advantages of such machines, including fuel economy, the difference will still be disproportionate. If there are no breakdowns, and the mileage is significant, the car will pay off at best in five years. This state of affairs does not inspire optimism. But as they say: "How many people - so many opinions", so the choice always remains with a particular person.

Due to their efficiency and reliability, Toyota hybrid cars are of great interest to the consumer. Smooth running and stability on the road, it turns out, are not all the advantages of this Japanese car. Excellent driving performance of the machine is surprisingly combined with economical fuel consumption. The Toyota Prius hybrid car is powered by two power sources: electric motor And internal combustion engine(ICE).

Let's try to figure out how, with an increase in power, a car can consume gasoline at the level of a small car. The device of the Toyota Prius hybrid car consists of:

internal combustion engine (ICE);
electric motor;
planetary gear (power divider);
generator;
inverter;
battery.

The internal combustion engine and the electric motor can work simultaneously, alternately and complement each other if necessary. In a hybrid device, the power torque can be transferred to the wheels from the electric motor and the internal combustion engine directly in various proportions.

This is done using a planetary gearbox (power divider), which consists of a set of gears. Four of them are connected to a gasoline engine, and the outer one is connected to an electric motor. Another satellite is connected to the generator, which, if necessary, sends energy to the electric motor or charges the battery.

One of the main advantages of the Prius can be considered that, unlike electric vehicles, charging a hybrid car does not require a connection to the mains. The processor, which controls all the actions of the machine, recharges the battery from the internal combustion engine if necessary.

Working principle of a hybrid car

The main task of Toyota engineers was to create an economical car that would not be inferior to powerful “iron horses” on the track, but at the same time would have low engine consumption. For this, a combination of an internal combustion engine and an electric motor was used. To achieve maximum efficiency, in the Toyota Prius, both power sources can work separately, together and in parallel.

So, the principle of operation of the hybrid Toyota Prius. The engine is started and the vehicle is accelerated using a traction electric motor. It rotates the outer satellite of the planetary gearbox and thus transmits torque to the wheels. But you won't get far on a battery. Therefore, as soon as the car picked up speed, the internal combustion engine is turned on.

The combined use of an electric motor and an internal combustion engine makes it possible to achieve maximum efficiency (efficiency) of the entire system, since. When the brake is pressed, the internal combustion engine is turned off and the so-called regenerative braking occurs (all energy from the resistance is converted into electrical energy), in which the electric motor, operating in generator mode, charges the battery.

If the car again needs increased power, for example for overtaking, the electric motor is turned on again, the energy of which is quite enough for a sharp increase in speed. The schemes of operation of hybrid cars were calculated to increase the efficiency of the car and reduce the emission of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere. With an increase in fuel consumption (when you press the gas pedal), the control computer sends a signal to the power divider and turns on the electrical source, which allows the internal combustion engine to operate in unloaded mode.

Toyota has a unique reliability and flexibility, since motion control is carried out mostly by wire, bypassing the use of complex components and assemblies. By the way, in the Toyota Prius hybrid, the generator acts as a starter and helps to "spin" the internal combustion engine to the required 1000 rpm.

Engine operating mode

Start. Movement using only electric traction.
Movement at a constant speed. In this case, torque is transmitted to the generator and wheels.
The generator, if necessary, recharges the battery and transfers energy to the electric motor. In this case, the summation of the torques of both traction units occurs.
Forced mode. The electric motor, receiving additional power from the generator, enhances the power of the gasoline engine.
Braking. The hybrid brakes mostly with the help of an electric motor. However, when the pedal is pressed hard, the hydraulic units are activated, and braking occurs in the usual way.

Engine (ICE)

Toyota hybrid engine type - Hybrid Synergy Drive (hybrid synergistic drive), which allows you to combine two power sources: an internal combustion engine and an electric motor. Let's find out what fuel engines are installed on the Prius.

In the mid-1950s, an engineer Ralph Miller proposed to improve the idea James Atkinson . The essence of the idea was expressed in increasing the efficiency of the internal combustion engine by reducing the compression stroke. It is this principle, now often referred to as the Miller/Atkinson cycle, that is used in Toyota's hybrid engines.

So, Toyota Prius hybrid, how the engine of this car works. Unlike other ICE models, the compression process in the cylinder does not begin at the moment the piston starts to move upwards, but somewhat later. Therefore, before closing the intake valves, part of the mixture of fuel and air goes back into the intake manifold, which allows you to increase the time in which the pressure energy of the expanding gases is used. All this leads to a significant increase in engine efficiency, an increase in the efficiency of the unit, and also increases torque.

Engine Specifications:

Volume - 1794 cubic cm.
Power (hp / kW / rpm) - 97 / 73 / 5200.
Torque (Nm / rpm) - 142/4000.
Fuel supply - injector.
Fuel - gasoline AI 95, AI - 92.

Consumption of Toyota Prius hybrid per 100 km in the urban cycle is 3.9 liters, on the highway - 3.7 liters.

Toyota car electric motor

The design of the hybrid synergic drive provides for the use of a traction motor. Power Toyota Prius electric motor - 56 kW, 162 Nm. This unit ensures the movement of the car from the start to a set of constant speed, turns on when the car is overtaking and participates in braking. The entire Toyota Prius system is thought out to the smallest detail. The hybrid car is charged while driving, from the internal combustion engine through the control generator.

Accumulator battery

The hybrid is equipped with two batteries (main high-voltage and auxiliary), both are located in the trunk of the car. The main device of the car battery is made of nickel-metal hydride alloy and has a capacity of 6.5 Ah, voltage 201.6 V. This unit has its own cooling system. Inside the high-voltage battery there is a controller that controls the process of charging each cell (block) of 168 cells in total.

The consumption and recovery of battery power is controlled by the vehicle's control processor. The Toyota Prius battery does not require recharging from the electrical network, this process is carried out while driving and braking (for the most part) of the vehicle.
Auxiliary battery: 12 V (35 Ah, 45 Ah, 51 Ah).

Conclusion

Despite the relatively high cost, hybrid cars are attracting more and more interest from buyers. Compared to other hybrid vehicles, the Toyota Prius actually consumes significantly less fuel and has low carbon emissions.

Under the Kyoto Protocol, signed in 1997, many countries have taken responsibility for reducing harmful emissions into the atmosphere.

Given the fact that Japan was one of the initiators of this protocol, many large Japanese companies have launched a number of projects designed to reduce emissions. Toyota Motor was one of the companies - back in 1992, the Earth Charter was presented here, later supplemented by the Environmental Action Plan.

These two documents determined one of the most priority areas of the company's activity today - the development of new environmentally friendly technologies. As part of this program, several variants of power plants were developed, including a hybrid power plant that appeared in 1997 on Toyota Prius Hybrid cars.

The development of a car with a hybrid power plant began in 1994. The main task for the engineers was to create an electric motor and power sources that could, if not replace, then at least effectively supplement the main internal combustion engine.

Toyota engineers, by their admission, tested over a hundred variants of various schemes and layouts, which made it possible to create a truly effective scheme called the Toyota Hybrid System. Eventually, after bringing the system to a fully working model, it was installed on the Toyota Prius Hybrid (model NHW10), which became the company's first hybrid car.

The THS system is a combined powertrain consisting of an internal combustion engine, two electric motors and an HSD continuously variable transmission. The 1500 cm3 1NZ-FXE gasoline engine is capable of developing 58 hp, and the total power of the electric motors is 30 kW. Electric motors use the energy stored in high-voltage batteries with a reserve of 1.73 kWh.

The main feature of the power plant was that the electric motors could also work as a generator - when driving on a gasoline engine, as well as during regenerative braking, they charged the battery and allowed it to be used again after a while. The engine itself worked according to the Atkinson principle, due to which the average fuel consumption in the city ranged from 5.1 to 5.5 l / 100 km.

The electric motor could operate both separately from the main engine and in synergistic mode, allowing faster acceleration to a more economical gear. All this has reduced the amount of harmful emissions into the atmosphere to about 120 g / km - for comparison, the hybrid hypercar Ferrari LaFerrari emits 330 g / km into the atmosphere.

Despite its merits and efficiency, the Toyota Prius Hybrid was met rather coolly - an unusual power plant affected, not powerful enough even for a quiet ride of a car weighing over 1200 kg.

Therefore, in 2000, the power plant was finalized in the NHW11 version - the power of the gasoline engine was increased from 58 to 72 hp, and the power of the electric motor was increased from 30 to 33 kW. Also, due to minor changes in the energy storage system, the capacity of the VVB has increased to 1.79 kWh.

Second generation NHW20 (2003-2009)

Introduced in 2003, the Toyota Prius hybrid model was significantly different from its predecessor. First of all, the hybrid received a five-door hatchback body - this body was more popular among 72% of potential car buyers than a sedan.

The second significant change was the modified THS II power plant. All the same one and a half liter 1NZ-FXE gasoline engine was boosted to 76 hp, but the power of the electric motor was increased to 50 kW. This made it possible not only to increase the maximum speed of the hybrid from 160 to 180 km / h on a gasoline engine and from 40 to 60 km / h on an electric motor, but also to reduce the acceleration time to 100 km / h by almost one and a half times.

The use of an inverter of a fundamentally new design made it possible to reduce the weight of the batteries from 57 to 45 kg and reduce the number of cells. The stored energy reserve decreased from to 1.31 kWh, but since the new type of inverter allowed more efficient conversion of regenerative energy, the range on batteries increased compared to the first generation Prius, and the battery charging rate increased by 14%. We also managed to reduce fuel consumption to 4.3 l / 100 km, and carbon monoxide emissions up to 104 g/km.

Third generation ZVW30 (2009-2016)

Despite the clear commercial success, Toyota engineers continued to improve the model in order to increase its autonomy using environmentally friendly energy sources and further reduce emissions. Based on the THS system, a fundamentally new series-parallel hybrid drive Hybrid Synergy Drive was developed, operating on the same principle, but with a number of major innovations.

First of all, instead of the exhausted increase in the power of the 1NZ-FXE engine, the 2ZR-FXE engine with a volume of 1800 cm3 was installed, developing a power of 99 hp. The power of the electric motor was increased to 60 kW, and its size was reduced due to the use of a planetary gear. The regenerative system has been improved to improve efficiency and speed up charging times. Despite the increased curb weight to almost 1500 kg, the dynamic performance has only improved thanks to a more powerful engine.

The use of a new hybrid drive has made it possible not only to increase the dynamic characteristics of the car, but also to make it more economical. According to Toyota engineers, the combined consumption is 3.6 l / 100 km - these are passport data.

Naturally, in real conditions this figure is higher, but according to the owners, on average it does not exceed 4.2-4.5 l / 100 km, against almost 5.5 l / 100 for the second generation Prius.

Another innovation is a roof-mounted 130W solar panel used to power the climate control system.

In 2012, the model underwent modernization, during which the autonomy of the electric hybrid was significantly increased. New batteries were installed, and their capacity was increased almost 3 times - 21.5 Ah versus 6.5 and stored energy of 4.4 kWh versus 1.31. Such a charge allows the hybrid to drive on an electric motor 1.5 km at a maximum speed of 100 km/h or 20 km at a speed of 40 km/h. At the same time, the emission of harmful substances into the atmosphere is only 49 g / km.

Fourth generation (2016)

In the fall of 2015, Toyota presented a new generation of Prius Hybrid at the Las Vegas Auto Show. The car is based on a completely new platform and is radically different with its aggressive and interesting design, hinting at a more sporty character.

This is true - according to the chief engineer of the Prius project, Kouzdi Toyoshima, when developing the design, the hybrid was given sporty features, as it became much faster and more dynamic than its predecessors.

The power plant Hybrid Synergy Drive remained virtually unchanged. But thanks to the use of more advanced materials, increased torque of the electric motor and a new electromechanical variator, it was possible to increase the maximum speed of the car. Also in mid-2016, the first all-wheel drive version of the hybrid will appear, with an additional 7.3 kW electric motor installed in the rear axle.

With newly designed high-voltage batteries, the hybrid travels more than 50 km on electric power, and an advanced charging system reduces the time for a full charge to 90 minutes and allows you to reach a 60% charge in just 15 minutes.

To date, Toyota has sold more than 3.5 million of its Prius vehicles. Deservedly considered the most popular hybrid in the world, this model demonstrates with confidence that the future belongs to cars with a hybrid and electric powertrain that reduce the harmful impact on the environment.

Video

In conclusion, a video review of the latest version.

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.

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).