2010 Toyota Prius EV-Drive Mode

By: Kara Gilmour
Staff Writer
Published: Jun 30, 2009

Articles - 2010 Toyota Prius Driving Modes

The 2010 Toyota Prius comes with several new innovative features. The Prius includes the EV-Drive Mode that optimizes the hybrid settings for total efficiency. This also allows the car to operate on electric power as long as possible.

The 2010 Prius actually has three driving modes that include Power, Eco, and EV. The Power Mode increases gas-pedal sensitivity for enhances acceleration. The Eco mode also changes air conditioning operation to reduce fuel consumption.

To extract the best performance from the hybrid powertrain, select the Power mode to increase midrange throttle response. This enables the Toyota Prius to easily keep pace with city traffic. These settings also allow owners to prioritize by saving time and by driving 5 mpg under the speed limit.

In addition, the Power mode delivers the best acceleration and the most immediate response when the driver steps on the gas. This also gives the 2010 Prius light acceleration between stops, which can greatly improve efficiency. Also, while the Eco mode does change a/c operation, it also reduces throttle response for better gas mileage.

Toyota Prius engineers have minimized weight gain in the hybrid by forming its hood, rear hatch and many suspension components from lightweight aluminum. The hybrid car has the same wheelbase as the old car, while the length and width have increased only a fraction of an inch. Engineers made changes to the shape of the fender liner, front surface of the under floor, and added a fin at the rear floor cover to increase linear stability.

The 2010 Prius now has discs for brakes. These brakes feature a new technology called "regeneration." Regeneration brakes will capture heat from braking and turns it into electricity that stores in the hybrid battery.

Along with exceptional fuel economy, it benefits from a taller, more airy cabin and improved driving feel. Another solid feature is the controls mounted on the steering wheel. While lots of cars offer this feature, the Toyota Prius is the only one equipped with touch sensors for these controls.

2010 Toyota Prius Hybrid Components Warranty

In addition to the standard 3-year/36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty and 5/60,000 gas-engine warranty, the 2010 Prius carries an 8-year/100,000-mile warranty on hybrid-related components. Powered by a 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine with VVT-i offering 98 hp at 5,200 rpm and 105 lb-ft torque at 4,000 rpm. It features a combined 51 mpg fuel economy.

Several consumers are shy from buying a new hybrid car because of the fear of battery replacement. While hybrid batteries do need replacing, the car includes a great warranty on the battery plus parts. The 2010 Toyota Prius is a third-generation car that already has proven reliability.