Ottawa, Ontario - When we began our long-term test of the Honda Civic Hybrid and Toyota Prius, Winter was arriving, and gas prices were, thankfully, stabilizing. Four months later, Spring is in the air, and gas prices are going crazy. Any fuel-efficient vehicle is coveted these days, but I feel a particular satisfaction when the Honda Civic Hybrid's engine "auto-stops" at an intersection where there happens to be a gas station within view. Yes, there's a definite psychological component to hybrid ownership. You're not a geek: you're just plain smart. Full Article The Prius wrap up will be posted on Tues
That the Honda hybrid engine auto stop ceases above 38 oC is an interesting (if minor) point, and not something that I would have anticipated.
<div class='quotetop'>QUOTE(tochatihu @ Apr 30 2006, 10:00 PM) [snapback]247803[/snapback]</div> above 38C the A/C system will be running full blast and the compressor will pull down the power both mechanical and electrical. Just as in the Prius. Does anyone know if the HCH uses the hybrid A/C compressor or is it strictly mechanically driven by the ICEl.
I believe it has a hybrid A/C now but I'm not sure if it's as good as the Prius in sustaining A/C for longer periods. (i.e. rush hour versus just a traffic light)
