I have a question regarding the energy monitor in my 2007 Prius Touring edition. Looking at the attached picture, you can see there are 6 blue bars in the monitor. Once in a while it will go to 7, but very seldom and every now and then, the bars will turn green for a bit. I am just curious if it is pretty much normal for the bars to stay at 6 and what does it mean when the bars go from blue to green? Thanks!
Yes it's normal. The Prius is very happy at 6 bars. On occasion it will go to 7 or 8 bars (green). It's not a big deal, but the Prius is happiest at 6 bars. Think of it as a pint of beer. I would much rather carry around a pint with a few sips out of it. I don't want to spill any. 8 bars = a full pint, with a spillage risk. 6 bars = a few sips out, but still most of a pint. 2-4 bars = I'm running low on beer.
The colours make it easy for you to identify how many bars are (green = 7 or 8 bars, blue is 3-6 and pink is 1-2).
Normal progression seems to be: Stage 1: Energy Monitor, watch all the pretty lights! Amaze your friends! Stage 2: Consumption Screen, try to keep instant mpg high by accelerating gently, backing off while cruising Stage 3: Energy Monitor, use feedback to "dead band" acceleration, keep in Hobbits 30-75mpg (45mph+) rpm efficiency zone, glide whenever possible etc... Rob
Does this thread qualify as having passed the Bar exam? Spideyman. Yes, it's normal and for some reason I want a beer.
