No hybrids that I know of use a conventional starter. I much prefer the quick and easy start stop of hybrids than the jerky start stop of non hybrids that shut off at stop lights. And no extra motor needed, it uses one of the large motors already needed for the hybrid setup.
The Prius is one of the most reliable cars made of any type, and has been for years. So I think it can be call ‘reliable’.
When was the last time you saw or heard of a Prius with a blown-up transmission? That design has been on the road for 25+ years.
Exactly. It’s a clue or a sign that the system has been made simpler for increased reliability, smoother operation, and lower operating costs. Conventional starters on hybrid vehicles are dumb. Why would you have an electric motor attached to the outside of an engine that is then attached to an electric motor inside the bell housing of the transmission? The electric device “between” the engine and trans is a starter, a motor, and a generator all in one. There’s no need for a conventional starter. It’s just dead weight and more to go wrong.
If true, that sounds scary in terms of longevity…not sure of its value either! Though starter motors are typically pretty heavy.
Speaking as relatively uninformed, are battery packs in most EV’s economical to replace? Do they interchange among brands or at least among most same-brand models? Can a typical shade-tree owner do swaps? Can the packs be re-built either in sub-modules or on a cellular basis? — that last question is a legit question, but I recognize there’s a danger in mixing cells with possible differences esp. if that’s not accounted for by some sort of battery equalizing management system.
These seem like anyone getting into the used EV market might should ask.
If we’re talking EVs (not hybrids), the battery packs are difficult to replace, typically very expensive, and not interchangeable. Not a ‘shade tree mechanic’ operation - the voltage and potential amperage is very high, special precautions are needed. The answers for hybrids are somewhat different because the battery pack is MUCH smaller.
Maybe this will help some…
And for haha’s, here is the new(ish) i-Force Max hybrid system…
At about 205 volts, working on a Prius hybrid battery is best left to the pros too.
True, but it’s self-contained and is designed to be be removeable, with a “service plug” that, when pulled as a first step, disconnects the cells from the terminals. I wouldn’t disassemble one, but I might remove one.
More, if you’re curious:
