Q: So, show me how it’s done!This video we made with … shows it best. Check it out.
Q: Who makes the battery kit?The battery kit is made by A123 / Hymotion. It’s called the ‘A123 Hymotion L5 Plug-in Conversion Module.’
Q: Is the battery kit specifically designed for the Toyota Prius?Yes, it has been specifically designed to convert the Toyota Prius Hybrid into a Plug-in Hybrid.
Q: I’m technically inclined. Give me all the details…See the complete specifications sheet for the A123 / Hymotion L5 Plug-in Conversion Module.
Q: What comes with my Plug-in Hybrid Conversion from Green Gears?
• A123/Hymotion 5 Kilowatt Hour-rated advanced high capacity NanophosphateTM Lithium Ion Battery Conversion Module for the Toyota Prius
• Advanced Battery Management System
• 110v AC Charging System
• Complete installation by Green Gears in San Francisco, a Hymotion Certified Hymotion Installation Partner
• Green Gears Eco Driver training tips to help you maximize mileage, and minimize carbon emissions
Q: How long does the conversion take?The conversion takes about 6 hours for the battery system installation, and an additional 2 hours for a road test and full initial charge-discharge cycle, so you’ll need to plan to leave your car at the shop. We also like to schedule a post-installation test drive to show you how to get the most out of your new car.
Q: Does the conversion have a warranty?A123 Hymotion provides a limited 3-year warranty for the battery.
Q: Will the conversion affect my standard Prius warranty?The conversion should not affect your standard Prius
warranty. However, A123 provides a limited warranty in the event Toyota voids its express Toyota warranty as a result of the installation. Automobile manufacturers cannot legally (according to the Federal Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act) void a new car warranty based on a consumer’s choice to install an equipment upgrade, or any portion of a new car warranty for unrelated equipment failure. For example, upgrading your audio system, paint or tires does not void your engine warranty.
warranty. However, A123 provides a limited warranty in the event Toyota voids its express Toyota warranty as a result of the installation. Automobile manufacturers cannot legally (according to the Federal Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act) void a new car warranty based on a consumer’s choice to install an equipment upgrade, or any portion of a new car warranty for unrelated equipment failure. For example, upgrading your audio system, paint or tires does not void your engine warranty.
Q: Why not wait to buy a new Plug-in Hybrid, like the Chevy Volt or Factory-built Plug-in Prius?New plug-in hybrids are still a ways out. The Chevy Volt won’t be available until late 2010 (but you probably won’t be able to get one until 2011), and Toyota’s Plug-in Prius won’t be available until 2012. Additionally, the Toyota Prius is a vehicle with longevity. Converting a car you already own saves all the resources required to build a new one, and it could be a good option if you’re looking for an upgrade to get you through until you can buy a fully electric car.
Q: Where does the new battery go in the Prius?The new battery is installed in the wheel well in the trunk of the Prius and the spare tire is removed. Watch this 10 minute video to learn more.
Q: Will the conversion affect trunk space?It won’t affect the rear deck space above the wheel well, but the spare tire will be removed.
Q: Where do I put my spare tire?We recommend that you avoid leaving your spare sitting loose in the trunk as this may be unsafe in the event of an accident. We suggest joining AAA Plus, which has a 150-mile towing range. In general, towing insurance can cost as little as $10 per year and can be a lifesaver in a variety of circumstances. If you’d still like to keep the spare with you there are four tie-down points in the rear-deck where you can secure the tire.
Q: Is the conversion kit safe?A123 has demonstrated with test data that their patented battery technology is safe and certifiable to UL standards when overcharged, over-discharged and subjected to mechanical and electrical abuse. The battery cells have also been tested and certified to UN transportation standards. The battery kit that will be installed in your Prius contains a battery management system (BMS) that monitors the voltage of each cell in the pack along with the temperature of the battery modules. This information is fed into the BMS which automatically terminates charge or discharge in the event that any safety limits are exceeded. It’s also equipped with a number of redundant safety features that will safeguard against unsafe operation, even in the event of a BMS failure.
Q: Have the battery kits been crash tested?The A123 Hymotion battery kits are the only Plug-in Hybrid conversion kits that have been crash tested (click for details) in accordance with National Highway Transportation and Safety Administration (NHTSA) standards, passing all tests. This is the primary reason they have been selected for our pilot program.
Q: Do you remove the Prius’ original NiMH battery?No. We will not not remove or disable the original Prius battery. The original battery continues to operate in tandem with the new battery while the new battery has electric charge. When the new battery is depleted, the Prius battery resumes operating alone as originally designed until the new battery is recharged from an outlet.
Q: How long does the battery last?About 10 years of daily use—3,500 recharge cycles as tested by national labs.
Q: What happens when the battery wears out? Is it recyclable?Yes, the battery is recyclable! At the end of its life it can be removed and shipped to A123′s recycling partner.
Q: Where can I get my battery kit serviced if I have a problem?You can return to the installer for a diagnoses of the problem and repair/replacement of the battery if necessary.
Q: How much does the battery kit weigh?187 lbs
Q: Will the conversion reduce the car’s overall carrying capacity?Yes. Since the kit adds 187 lbs., the carrying capacity will by reduced by that amount. We will paste a sticker into the driver’s side doorjamb to remind you of this. The conversion also comes with an upgrade to the rear shocks to support the weight of the battery kit.
