The windshield defroster can also be used to cool the interior of the car, although not as much as the air conditioner. Using the air conditioner reduces fuel economy, does using the defroster do the same?
Yes, every car I have owned recently uses the A/C to de-humidify the air blown in defrost mode. So it is the same cost as running the A/C and blowing it at you, instead of the windows.
I'm new to this, but any use of power has to come from burning fuel in the tank. Unless your real slick and watch your regen and "schedule" power use accordingly, I think. Like I said I'm new to this, but I intend to keep the interior cool in hot weather because I assume the traction battery doesn't like heat, and keeping the interior cool is kind to it? I assume the battery vent was moved from the top of the seat to the bottom in order to get to cooler air? using the A/C to keep the traction battery cool, you may even use less fuel than by not using A/C?, not always, but sometimes? I assume Toyota was smart enough to measure battery temp and adjust charge rate based on battery temp? Lot of assuming, Just like I assume use of the A/C actually may use less fuel than running with the windows down, because of aerodynamic drag, at least at higher speeds? This hypermiling is fun because it's not easy or uncomplicated.
Yes they did verify AC is more efficient at highway speed than windows roll down. You are getting close to 50mpg already, does it really matter if you lose 1 or 2?
Only had the car one day and I'm away on a trip to Oshkosh now, but I rented an 08 for a week one year ago. It wasn't difficult to get 60+ with it, I'm hoping the Gen III will do at least as well after break in of course. I do live in a semi rural area and that light traffic is high mileage friendly of course.
