With regard to the standard, or even the upgraded, charging process, does the system automatically stop when the batteries are fully charged? Does the system continue to trickle electricity until the charging feature is disengaged? And lastly, whats the best way to calculate charging cost by KWs? If so, does the onboard system advise how much was "filled" or transferred? As usual, many thanks for comments and observations!
I know nothing about the Prius charger but Lithium Ion batteries have been around a while. Here is a good web site on how to charge them. Charging Lithium-Ion Batteries
I can imagine the PiP does not work much differently from the Volt.. The batteries charge at a steady rate (on the Volt it is 4mi/hr on 120V and 10mi/hr on 240V) up until they are fully charged, and then it shuts off. On the PiP since it is air cooled you do not have to worry about the power draw of battery systems. However the charger will charge the battery based on temperature, and voltage/amperage available. Also if the battery is colder will not charge to the same capacity as it will when warmer. The PiP may be more subject to temperature swings since it does not have coolant to regulate overall battery temp, but you would need to ask someone that had a prototype.. Overall charging is seemless. You really do plug in, and forget. You can also pull it off anytime you need to (even if its only been plugged in for 5 minutes), and go since you have a gas engine. Having a PHEV is truly remarkable, and I think anyone that gets one will love it.
