WalterDnes Notice the highlighted word “FUEL”, i.e. the stuff that gets burned in an internal combustion engine.
The most improvement can be had by not burning FUEL at all. 😉
WalterDnes So the key to using less fuel is to use less fuel. Brilliant.
Not exactly, Using vehicles that burn less fuel.
WalterDnes It has CVT and Automatic-Stop-Start (think of an acronym). It doesn’t have the extra complexity associated with a turbo. But it is a hybrid with TWO drivetrans… which have to be able to do quick handovers on the fly. More stuff to break.
It also has regenerative braking, an Atkinson cycle engine, and a very aerodynamic body.
And “more stuff to break” doesn’t necessarily mean an unreliable car. Based on some Google AI responses:
The Toyota Prius is generally considered a very reliable vehicle, consistently earning high ratings from both consumers and industry experts. It’s known for its dependable hybrid system, long-lasting components, and relatively low repair costs. While no car is perfect, the Prius stands out for its reputation for durability and fuel efficiency. The Toyota Prius’ Atkinson cycle engine does utilize variable valve timing. Specifically, it employs a system called VVT-i (Variable Valve Timing with intelligence). This technology optimizes engine performance by adjusting the timing of the intake valves.
In addition, there are a number of other approaches such as turbo, variable engine displacement, and cylinder deactivation that is utilized by other engines to increase efficiency.