I read one post on this topic, but did not see a complete answer. I'm considering buying a Prius. It will be great for my 80 mile round trip commute for work. But I also frequently drive from the Front Range of Colorado to the mountains for skiing. This involves a 50+ mile sustained climb in I-70 for over an hour. It ends with a very steep climb to a 12,000' pass.
I have heard some reports that this drive may be sufficient to drain the Prius batteries leaving me with only the gas engine for the last climb. Clearly 70 some odd horses will never get me up these hills very fast. I've heard reports of having to slow to 45mph (this is a 60-65 mph Interstate highway section.)
Does anyone have any first hand experience with extensive mountain driving in a Prius? Is what I have described likely to happen based on how the Prius operates?
Thanks for your help!
Rick
I have heard some reports that this drive may be sufficient to drain the Prius batteries leaving me with only the gas engine for the last climb. Clearly 70 some odd horses will never get me up these hills very fast. I've heard reports of having to slow to 45mph (this is a 60-65 mph Interstate highway section.)
Does anyone have any first hand experience with extensive mountain driving in a Prius? Is what I have described likely to happen based on how the Prius operates?
Thanks for your help!
Rick