Is it normal for the Prius energy monitor to be showing that the ICE and motor are driving the wheels without any battery power? How can the motor drive the wheels without any battery being drawn going up a hill?
Just read that it is possible, the ICE provide power to the motor at times so no battery is needed. Ingenious Toyota design!
Yup, the PSD (power split device) is an ingenius approach. Of course, we've known that for a very long time... That ability to send energy in a variety of directions set it apart from the competition. The rapid switching and ability to create & consume electricity without even using the battery made many take notice. Being able to top-off while climbing up a hill is especially captivating, definitely counter-intuitive.
Is it an unusual condition though? I would think most times the ICE would be charging battery if not drawing power.
That is similar to what I am seeing at times ... but in my case I have seen the ICE sending power to the wheels *only* ... no arrows to the motor / battery.
