Why is the Toyota Prius Different?
The Toyota Prius is different than most HEV’s because of its radically different transmission. It uses technology called the Power Split Device. This allows the Prius to operate like a parallel hybrid. The electric motor will power the vehicle by itself, and both the electric motor and the gasoline engine can power the vehicle together. The power split device will also let the car operate like a series design vehicle. The gasoline engine then is used to either run the generator that charges the batteries or to power the wheels. The power split device also starts the engine. The Prius never needs to be recharged, because the onboard generator takes care of it. Hybrid electric vehicles are very good on gas. Let’s look at mileage ratings: * Toyota Prius 60 mpg City 50 mpg highway * Toyota Camry 33 mpg city 34 mpg highway * Honda Civic 40 mpg city 45 mpg highway * Honda Accord 24 mpg city 32 mpg highway * Ford Escape 31 mpg city 29 mpg highway Research also shows that previous mpg estimate
