Should the PIP have a heat pump?

Discussion in 'Gen 1 Prius Plug-in 2012-2015' started by 3PriusMike, Dec 17, 2012.

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  1. xs650

    xs650 Senior Member

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    Yeah, an engine is a piss poor heat source if you are running the engine just for the heat. If the engine is already running to move the car, then the heat is essentially free once the engine is up close to operating temperature.
     
    #21 xs650, Dec 20, 2012
  2. rcf@eventide.com

    [email protected] Member

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    One of my favorite features of some newer cars is that the driver and passenger have their own temperature controls. As I commented earlier in this thread, I wonder if it wouldn't make sense just to add an electrical resistance heating coil in the driver's air vent (only). When only one person is in the car, 90% or more of the time for some of us, the driver could turn this on to keep himself warm without heating the whole car or turning on the ICE. This is a very low-cost, low weight, no-moving-part option. If there are more people, just turn it off and let the ICE work as it does now.

    Richard
     
    #22 [email protected], Dec 20, 2012
  3. 3PriusMike

    3PriusMike Prius owner since 2000, Tesla M3 2018

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    I would want it on the passenger side too. It would be good enough to put a push button next to the seat heats for a heat boost. When in ECO and button pushed allow the fan to come on with no ICE.

    Mike
     
    #23 3PriusMike, Dec 20, 2012
  4. Drake

    Drake Junior Member

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    o_O That's exactly what we want. Especially when it is plugged in:
    Could 2013 Nissan Leaf Use Renault Zoe’s Heat Pump For Cold Weather?

     
    #24 Drake, Dec 22, 2012
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