Let's Talk Hybrids
Let's Talk Hybrids
Your questions about hybrids answered by Rav the friendly RAV4
What’s the difference between a hybrid and a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV)?
How do you start a hybrid?
I’m easy to start. Simply have your car keys nearby and make sure my transmission is in ‘Park’. Then put your foot on the brake. I’m almost ready to go. Start me up by pushing the power button (or turning the key) and you’re away. When I turn on the first thing you hear is… nothing. You see I don’t roar or draw unnecessary attention. I start smoothly and silently. My dashboard light says “ready”, so you’ll always know when I’m ready to roll.
How do I know when a hybrid is using its electric motor, petrol engine, or both?
What is regenerative braking?
Hybrids like me get some of their electricity from regenerative braking. That means I take the kinetic energy of the vehicle, convert it into electricity when braking, and use it to charge my hybrid battery. You can feel satisfied, knowing you’re adding to my battery power every time you use the brakes.
What are the different hybrid drive modes for?
What are the advantages of owning a hybrid?
Most hybrids like me cost a little more to buy than a similar petrol model, but I give you more too! For starters, you don’t need to pay any road user charges like you do for diesels, which is handy. I also come with an 8 year/160,000km hybrid battery warranty, so battery life isn’t really an issue. Then there’s my running costs, which are a fair bit less than your standard petrol or diesel car. And if fuel prices keep rising, the savings should only get better. I don’t cost any more than an equivalent petrol car to service either, and Toyota Service Technicians are fully-trained to make sure I stay fit and healthy, so there’s no worries there. There’s the feel-good factor too. When you drive me you tend to feel pretty good about the environment. It’s a win-win I reckon.