Hybrid system in cold temps and 4x4 H mode

appears the Hybrid system doesn't engage in super cold temperatures and/ or when in 4 wheel drive mode. It will engage and work as a supplemental boost system but it will not go into 100 percent Hybrid mode except in low speed mode and will not stay in it as long.

When temperature is normal it will engage in Hybrid mode more often and for longer periods. I could not get it to engage at highway speeds at all.

 

The hybrid battery output is reduced in the cold. Normal operating temp is between around room temp and the cooling fans kick on when the battery reaches 95F. The battery can warm up eventually but it takes a long time because it is air cooled/heated.

 

do you work for Toyota?

 

I wish. I used to hang around the Prius forums when I had one many years ago. A lot of interesting folks there that do data logging, etc. so you learn a lot. You can google something like Prius battery operating temp or something similar and find a treasure trove of information.

 

Hybrid seems to be the best option in cold weather vs all electric for the foreseeable future. Especially when it comes to charging and range. Infrastructure will improve in time. The world has been through this before when we went from horse and buggy to automobile.