Prius in Singapore

OIC, you are refering to farthest distance on a tank. Then yes, I agree bladder do make a difference on the amount you can refuel and therefore it affects the maximum range. I was thinking of l/100km or mpg.

In Senectus's case, I think he got a good headstart. He researched the web well before he got his Prius. So, he already received some of the tips here and elsewhere and thus he can start driving efficiently.

My 1st tank was only 6 l/100km (39 mpg)! I only started joining forums after I got my Prius. After learning from other owners and experimenting with their various techniques, I have no problem getting the low 4s l/100km (high 50s mpg) now.

Vincent

 

This is always the hottest topic in almost all the forums that I frequented.

To get you started, you can check out this great article in the KB:

Why don't I get the EPA mileage?

One major difference with other vehicles is that Prius gives you an immediate feedback on the effect of your driving style on your fuel consumption. The 5 mins. histograms show you the FC and up to six 5 mins. segments can be shown on the MFD. For other cars, you only get to know your FC at the pump and you wouldn't be able to corelate the exact factors affecting your FC.

Having said that, it can be a double-edged sword if not used appropriately. Many owners are so engross on the MFD that they forgot about safety! My advice is to keep your eyes on the road and take a quick glance when it is safe to do so. This is especially true in my country where other drivers like to cut into your lane without signaling. :guns:

As you go along, you will definitely pick up more tips.

Vincent

 

Actually whether it is EPA number or the ADR 81/01 number is secondary, the same principles still apply.

A number is just a number. Some get better number and some don't. But that is not important. To me, it is the process of learning and the continuous improvements which I find more satisfaction.

Someone has said, the higher the mpg that you aim for, the lesser enjoyment you will get from driving Prius.

Vincent

 

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Prius is actually very easy to drive. A lot of controls are being handled by the onboard computers, more than any other conventional ICE vehicles. Have you noticed that there is no tachometer? You don't need it, you can't control the engine RPM anyway. When you step on the accelerator, you are merely sending a request to the computers of how much you want to accelerate and the computers will then calculate the optimum RPM and torque for engine, generator and motor that have the lowest emission and the best efficiency.

Some tips/tricks which I think you can try:

1) Use accelerator to regulate speed instead of brake.
Anticipate the need to slow down and get off the accelerator immediately. Look ahead for red lights, stop signs and the brake lights of cars in front of you. Release or ease up on the accelerator so as to lose speed by coasting. The point is to minimize additional wasted energy by avoiding or delaying applying the brakes. Your goal is to coast gently to a stop or have the reason for slowing down clear itself before you get to it. Remember, it takes a lot more fuel to get moving from a complete stop than say moving at 10 km/h.

2) Avoid excessive speed.
The faster you go, the lower your fuel economy will be.

3) Preserving the Vehicle's Aerodynamics
Changes you make to the shape or surface of the car are likely to increase the drag coefficient. Don't open the windows needlessly. At high speed, running the air conditioning with the windows closed is thought to be better than having the windows open.

4) Unnecessary Weight
Take it out of the car and leave it at home instead.

5) Regenerative Braking
Try to brake gradually rather than forcefully. This avoids the mechanical brakes coming on and provides an energy flow that the re-charging system can use efficiently.

Some other tips/tricks which you may have to use trial and error method to find the compromise yourself:

1) Higher tyre pressure => harsher ride.
2) Less A/C use => more discomfort.

Vincent

 

There are 2 corporate fleet that I know of. One is the SPF (Singapore Police Force) and the other is NTUC Income Car Co-Op (Car rental company).

I think police cars are exempted from the VQS (Vehicle Quota System) as they are considered as emergency vehicles, so no COE is required. Not sure whether NTUC Income Car Co-Op uses the same scheme as Honda Diracc whereby they have a special grant from EDB (Economic Developement Board) and no COE is required.

IMHO, COE rebate and car scrapping are not "habit" but rather they are a result of the LTA (Land Transport Authority) car control policy. Car owner stand to loose their PARF and they still need to pay for the COE if they intend to keep their car beyond 10 years.

Vincent

 

I just want to report that our local dealer, Borneo Motors, is bringing in the PriusII finally! Their competitor, Kah Motor, is also bringing in the HCHII.

Hybrids heating up market