2008 Prius EV mode button

[lawrence.miller]

I have a 2008 Toyota Prius and plan to install the EV mode switch DIY.

Comments from a Google seach of, 2008 Prius EV mode, indicate it should work.

I'm interested in anyone's first hand, or trusted second hand, experience.

FYI I have the Prius Electrical Wiring Diagram 2008 Model book, if anyone needs some diagrams.

(If there is a better forum to post this in, please let me know.)

BTW, I cannot use the commercially available EV mode kits because my car does not have cruise control. For me, the Prius is a luxury car. I would gladly take a lower price without electric windows, electric mirrors, AM/FM/CD, etc. I want a basic 50+ MPG car. My previous 2 cars were GEO Metros. I believe cars should be at 100+ MPG. Converting to PHEV is a longer term goal. I special ordered the base model of the Prius to get the price down.

Lawrence

[lawrence.miller]

I installed the EV mode button and it works as advertised.

The first use was on level streets at 25 MPH or less. After 0.8 miles, the battery indicator dropped to two (2) bars before the gasoline engine started. This was expected based on other's reports.

I plan to use EV mode only in short moves, like in the parking lot, or downhill. I don't want to cycle the NiMH battery too much, to increase its life.