This is a great article about Plug-In hybrids and the way people drive them. The Plug-In Paradox Peak Oil Garage The Plug-In Paradox I can say that I agree 100%. The Hymotion Plug-In kit for the Prius is amazing. I can average over 99.9 MPG (around 120 to 140 mpg) easily if I try. But if I get lazy, it is very easy to average 85 mpg. It all depends on how much you care to maximize the extra battery energy. You also have to be aware of your 30-40 mile range and use every opportunity to recharge during the day. I can also say that experience counts. Many of the fleet cars using Plug-Ins are driven by new drivers with little Plug-In experience. That is going to lead to lousy numbers from fleet Plug-Ins. I averaged 85 mpg my first couple of days. Then once I had about 1 week of experience, I was able to achieve 100+ mpg consistently.
"I could totally see something erupting in social networks where people compare driving styles," he adds. ummm...so that HASN'T arrived yet...(sneaks guilty glance at fellow PC'ers)
True. We are a bit bleeding edge around here. If you Google the words "Hymotion test" most of the links are to Prius Chat and my website.
I think the Paradox is that the Plug-In has the ability to give incredible MPG numbers. But it doesn't always do it if your brain is wired to have a heavy foot.
what it means is that the best of technology can not come close to overcoming human willpower and misguided preconceived notions.
