[mdryan]

Is anyone offering a Li=Ion battery replacement for the 2004 Prius?
I'm thinking more power in the same size pkg as stock battery.
Thanks
MDR

 

[DanMan32]

A direct sub for a Li-Ion battery could be a problem, since the optimal charging/discharging algorithm is different than for a NiMH. The HV and HV Battery ECUs would probably need reprogramming. Granted, the way the Prius handles the charge/discharge cycles, it may not matter much.

The other problem with a standard Li-Ion battery is safety. Li-Ions have a strong potential to combust when something goes wrong, like a short. Now there is a new manufacturing technique that was developed to minimize this danger, but I don't think it is quite ready for installing into vehicles on a mass scale yet.

 

[KTPhil]

I was also wondering if, down the road, Toyota would offer a newer battery technology (along with a required S/W update), or just leave them alone. I expect the answer is no, since it might require EPA tests to prove it still meets the smog regs. Also, it would undermine new car sales for Toyota.

I am resigned to a car that will have "stale" technology in a few years. But since I keep cars forever, I'll just have to "settle" for 45-50mpg!

 

[MikeFromEastCoast]

Maybe the Prius+ would be worth looking into.

http://www.calcars.org/priusplus.html

 

[hyperion]

Understand the conversion is about ten grand. How much for just the "DECALS?"

 

[DanMan32]

I was also wondering if, down the road, Toyota would offer a newer battery technology (along with a required S/W update), or just leave them alone. I expect the answer is no, since it might require EPA tests to prove it still meets the smog regs. Also, it would undermine new car sales for Toyota.

I am resigned to a car that will have "stale" technology in a few years. But since I keep cars forever, I'll just have to "settle" for 45-50mpg!

I believe Atilla asked the Toyota engineers and recieved the answer.

 

[KTPhil]

And the answer was...........?

 

[Jeffand]

This may offer a clue to what maybe available soon.
:arrow: http://www.bradenton.com/mld/bradenton/news/local/16406352.htm