Quote:
Originally Posted by codenamezero
. . . just get a hybrid car and just run it on battery, because a hybrid already has a gasoline engine built in, that is essentially your "generator trailer". . . .
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Uh, this isn't quite accurate even though it is 'common wisdom.'
I have only studied the Prius in detail and the Honda IMA in passing so please understand the limits:
- Optimum BSFC - the traction battery and motors allow the Prius (more or less) and the Honda IMA systems to optimize their BSFC.
- EV only - somewhat concentrated in the Prius, the battery allows the ICE to 'shut the f*ck up' when modest power is needed. In the Prius world, we seek routes and paths that allow us to travel under the hybrid threshold speed, 42 mph, or 46 mph in the ZVW30.
- efficient CVT - although I can explain it, it takes a little more time. Most CVTs are not nearly as efficient as this Toyota invention but it has to do with the power split device.
Adding a motor and battery or even a generator would lead to poor performance. It is the integrated system of ICE and transaxle that gives the Prius unmatched efficiency. It is what is missing in the speculations and honorable competition.
Bob Wilson