Toyota Highlander Hybrid Offers Two Toyota Electric SUV Indicators

By: Kara Gilmour
Staff Writer
Published: Apr 28, 2009

It was only a couple of years ago when it was considered laughable that a hybrid SUV could be powered by a battery. However, when gas prices soared in 2008, shopping for a fuel efficient SUV was taken more seriously. As a matter of fact, the technology has been around for years, but only recently have the car makers decided to build more of them.

Auto manufacturers build by demand. Prior to 2008, there wasn't a high demand for a fuel efficient SUV. Toyota has recognized the growing market for battery powered SUVs and built the option in the Highlander.

The Toyota Highlander Hybrid raises the bar once again to offer consumers a mid-size SUV with more spacious room and runs quieter. Engineers enhanced measures to reduce the road and engine noise, as much as six decibels than its predecessor. The Hybrid models are also equipped with four-wheel drive.

The SUV engine is known as the Hybrid Synergy Drive system's 3.3-liter V6 which offers a high-torque electric drive. The motor-generator has been extensively upgraded and refined for both power and economy. The power train is 270 net horsepower and maintains preliminary fuel efficiency.

Toyota has now equipped the Highlander Hybrid with a unique instrument panel which monitors energy to assist the driver in maximizing its fuel economy. This is an excellent feature which lets the driver to activate the SUV in EV mode directly from the center console. The Electric Mode can be turned on under certain driving conditions such as slower speeds or certain stop-and-go situations.

Fuel consumption can be reduced when the SUV is running in EV mode. When activated, it begins to smooth out the throttle response in an effort to limit excessive acceleration which can enhance fuel economy. Moreover, a new ECON indicator light will provide the driver with a guideline to reduce fuel consumption.

Maximizing Toyota Highlander Hybrid Fuel Consumption

There are two automatic Hybrid System Indicator modes: "normal" and "acceleration." The "normal mode" reveals three white LED dashes, located on the outer edge of the power meter, when driving at slower speeds. Keeping the power meter needle within the three white dashes allows the driver to maintain a constant speed and acceleration level that helps achieve maximum fuel economy.

As the driver increases acceleration, the Hybrid System Indicator automatically switches to "acceleration mode." The "acceleration mode" encourages the driver to keep the power meter needle within five white dashes to help achieve maximum fuel economy.