The 2012 Honda Insight sees no major changes. This gas/electric hybrid car is a 5-passenger, 4-door hatchback that mates a 1.3-liter 4-cylinder engine with a battery-powered electric motor for 98 horsepower total. Honda’s hybrid system allows the gas engine to shut off at a stop and restart again when the driver releases their foot from the brake pedal. No plug-in charging is required. The sole transmission is a continuously variable (CVT) unit that behaves like an automatic. Trim levels carry over from 2011 and include Base, LX, and EX. Safety features include ABS, traction control, antiskid system, curtain-side airbags, and front-side airbags. Cruise control, an upgraded audio system, and a USB port are standard on all but the Base. A navigation system with rearview camera is available on the EX, and versions so equipped are priced as separate models. A wireless cell-phone link is newly standard on EX models without navigation.
The Plug-in features an extended EV mode that can let you drive up to 15 miles on a single charge, up to 62 mph, as well as a quick three-hour charge time from a standard 120V AC household outlet [1]. If you run out of electric charge, the vehicle seamlessly shifts into hybrid mode, still giving you great mpg.
How does the Prius Plug-in work?
To charge the Prius Plug-in, you simply plug it into any standard household outlet with a dedicated 15-amp circuit. This produces a full charge in just three hours. If you have installed a dedicated 220V Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment (EVSE) outlet, charging the vehicle only takes 1.5 hours. If you run out of electric charge while driving, don’t worry – the vehicle automatically transitions to hybrid mode and runs on the gas engine until you have a chance to recharge.
There are two important facets to an efficient hybrid:
1) An efficient machine, and
2) an efficient driver. Working in unison, they can dramatically enhance fuel economy.
Eco Assist™[1] is composed of two basic functions:
* A sophisticated feedback system that teaches you to drive more efficiently[2]
* An ECON button[1] that helps aid in optimizing your vehicle’s fuel efficiency if used in conjunction with responsibly efficient driving practices[2]
These components can work individually or in tandem to help boost your overall fuel economy. As the EPA tests have shown, the Insight is capable of excellent fuel economy without any special techniques. Utilizing the tools of Eco Assist™[1] can help you make the Insight more efficient. For a demonstration of how Eco Assist™[1] works, watch the video.
This video provides a full explanation of the technology behind the Honda Insight Eco Assist™ system and explains how the system can coach you to drive more efficiently.
Toyota Prius Repair and Maintenance Manual: 2004-2008 is the hands-on reference that shows you how to service and maintain your Prius.
This Bentley Manual contains the essential information and know-how you need to take the mystery out of servicing the Toyota Prius with Hybrid Synergy Drive®. You’ll find step-by-step directions from safely disabling the high voltage system to real-world practical repair and maintenance procedures and full-color technical training.
The aim throughout has been simplicity and clarity, with detailed explanations, step-by-step procedures and accurate specifications. Both the professional technician and the do-it-yourself Prius owner will find this manual indispensable as a source of detailed maintenance and repair information. Even Prius owners who have no intention of working on their vehicle will find that reading and owning this manual makes it possible to discuss repairs more intelligently with a professional technician.
Model and engine coverage:
2004 – 2008 Prius NHW20
1NZ-FXE Engine
Technical highlights:
Written for both experienced professionals and do-it-yourself owners, this book removes the mystery and explains the technology behind the Toyota Prius in an easy and understandable style.
Advanced technological features described: High-voltage power inverter, hybrid motor / generators, electric air-conditioning compressor, electric power steering, continuously variable transmission, regenerative brakes and more.
Maintenance procedures from changing the oil to replacing the air/fuel ratio sensor. This manual tells you what to do and how and when to do it.
Valve clearance adjustment.
Cooling system and radiator service. Detailed instructions for checking, filling and bleeding engine and transaxle / inverter coolant.
Fuel injection and ignition system diagnostics.
Suspension repair procedures, including strut replacement.
Brakes and steering troubleshooting and repair.
Door, window, bumper, and seat service and repairs.
Electrical system service, with an illustrated component locator section.
Comprehensive wiring schematics, including power distribution and grounds.
Toyota OBD II diagnostic trouble codes, SAE-defined OBD II P-codes, as well as scan tool operation.
Hybrid Car users in Sri Lanka