+Cars+only.JPG)
Humm, two civic hybrids in our household? Why not? They still weigh less (financially, environmentally, etc) than the numerous SUV's, Vans and large sedans parked in the majority of driveways across this great country. If you believe in better examples then you might just accept being the first to provide them. In other words, "Do as I do... and not just as I say".
Hi MSantos!
ReplyDeleteGreat blog! Can you advise as I could not find answer if Prius v is to be a good hit for my family I believe many people in Canada would ask the same questions):
• We live in Northern New Brunswick when winter temperatures drop up to -30C (max night low) and humidity is high because we are in a river valley/close to the ocean
• No garage: car must be outside, but power socked available for a block heater
• 1200-1400 km per month
• Short daily commutes: 1.5 km from home to the office (usually not enough to fully warm up the engine)
Apart from a block heater, 12v battery heater and limiting the cold air intake, should I also consider electric heater for the main battery?
I really want a hybrid car but very cold weather +car being outside + very short distance to work...it might be though for a car with so much electronics...
Hi Dan
ReplyDeleteYou simply cannot get a more "bullet-proof" automotive option for our country and climate than a Prius vehicle. I've owned 2 generations of Prii and to this day I can state this with the utmost confidence.
With this said, the Prius V is an awesome choice that you will never regret... especially so when you compare its winter time overheads to that of more traditional vehicles (especially those of comparable interior volume, this includes minivans).
Pick any vehicle sold in Canada and you simply do not have a better value for Canadians than a Prius especially if you are looking for a clean, safe, dependable and reliable vehicle with great resale value.
For all commutes and particularly short ones, I wholeheartedly recommend using the block heater more regularly as the vehicle will shorten its warm up stage more efficiently (and cheaply) with plug power rather than burning dirty gasoline at less than 30% efficiency. Just to give you an idea: I even use the block heater (1-2 hours max) during the summer months. Yes, it helps that much and it costs just cents to do so.
The class-leading electronics and power systems in the Prius is what grants it the reliable track record it exhibits. Many Taxi and courier companies in Canada know this (hard to spot a taxi in Winnipeg that is not a Prius) and quite frankly, the Prius makes all other gasoline powered vehicles look like unreliable dinosaurs that simply belong in the past.
No need to go the extra mile for the hybrid system which includes the main battery. The Prius takes care of that so you do not have to. Just plug it in when you can and enjoy. :)
Cheers