Toyota Hybrid Technology

How Hybrids Work

Toyota’s Hybrid Synergy Drive can operate in electric-mode only, gas-mode only, or a combination of the two. It uses regenerative braking to help the battery regain charge when you slow down, saving energy for later use. As a result, Toyota hybrids boast amazing fuel efficiency, excellent performance, and a 70% cleaner powertrain than conventional gas engines and diesel engines.

To operate a Toyota hybrid, simply press the power button and go. In most conditions only the electric motor is engaged when the vehicle starts up to save fuel and deliver instant torque. When you accelerate, the gas engine and electric motor work together to give you a good mix of mechanical and electric power for smooth driving, all while maximizing fuel efficiency and minimizing emissions. Any excess energy goes to recharging the battery. When you slow down, only the electric motor is at work, eliminating emissions completely. This is also when regenerative braking kicks in, converting brake energy into electric energy that goes to recharging the battery. Once you come to a complete stop, the gas engine totally shuts down. However, if the battery is running low the gas engine will start up to provide engine power. But under normal circumstances only the electric motor operates.

Hybrid Facts

Since the introduction of Hybrid vehicles into the market, there has been a lot of conversation about what Hybrids do and do not do. Here are some answers to frequently asked questions that come up when discussing whether or not moving to a Hybrid vehicle makes sense for you.

• Maintaining a Toyota hybrid is no more expensive than a conventional vehicle. Because the gas engine is off some of the time, it reduces wear and tear, regenerative braking saves pad and rotor life, and there are no starters, alternators, or belts to replace. All of these reduce maintenance costs.
• 99% of Toyota hybrids sold since 2000 have never had their original batteries replaced. That’s because Toyota hybrid batteries are designed to last the vehicle’s lifetime, and are backed by an 8-year, 160,000 km warranty.
• The latest diesel vehicles emit nearly triple the amount of smog-forming emissions than Toyota hybrids. Toyota hybrids are among the top vehicles in reducing smog-forming emissions and are some of the cleanest vehicles on the road!
• Toyota offers hybrid technology in more vehicle models than any other manufacturer, including the Prius lineup, Camry, RAV4, and Highlander.