There’s this big EV Mode button right in the middle of the console. If I press it when the battery is below half, it says ‘Battery too low for EV Mode.’ If it’s above half, it just says ‘EV Mode Unavailable.’ What’s the deal with this thing
For normal driving it’s kinda pointless since you have to go super slow to stay in EV mode (like 35kmh in my RAV4). But it’s great when you’re stopped and don’t want the engine running. It just uses the battery instead, and I use it all the time like that.
@viviana
I call it Golf Cart Mode… like when you’re just moving the car in the driveway or going a few blocks in the neighborhood.
@viviana
Exactly. When you’re parked, it’s easier to hit this button than mess with accessory mode. Plus, the 12V battery dies fast, so if the hybrid battery has charge, this is way better.
Amari said:
@viviana
Exactly. When you’re parked, it’s easier to hit this button than mess with accessory mode. Plus, the 12V battery dies fast, so if the hybrid battery has charge, this is way better.
12v*
@viviana
I used it in my old Honda Hybrid to drive into my parking garage. Less exhaust fumes inside. But it didn’t work in the morning since the car wanted to warm up the engine.
@viviana
In winter, I use it to drain the battery before turning the car off. That way, when I start it cold, the engine has to charge the battery while warming up. Not sure if it helps, but it feels like it does.
I have this in my Prius. It’s for slow speeds and light acceleration—good for traffic or short trips. But since hybrid batteries drain fast, the engine kicks in quick. Works better in plug-in hybrids.
I use it to move my car from the driveway to the street. No need for the engine to start for that. But if it’s cold or I press the gas too hard, the engine turns on anyway. Pretty limited use.
It’s mostly useless because the car already switches to EV mode when it can. The button only works in situations where the car would do it automatically anyway. I never touch it.
Isn’t this for traffic… but doesn’t the car already switch on its own
Toyota hybrids have had this forever. My 2013 Prius C had it. Best for creeping around the neighborhood. My 2024 RAV4 can hit 35mph in EV mode if I’m gentle. Otherwise, just let the car decide.
I tried it last week… cuts off around 20mph, only works if it’s not too cold, and lasts like half a mile.
Mostly useful in dead-stop traffic.
Probably meant for garages so you don’t breathe fumes. But honestly, the car already goes electric at low speeds anyway.
Good for places like parks with 15mph limits. Lets you force EV mode. But the RAV4 Hybrid is smart enough on its own most of the time.
It’s for drive-thrus.
Parking garages, drive-thrus, traffic, campuses… anywhere you’re under 20mph and don’t want the engine running.
Could be useful if you run out of gas… EV mode might get you to a station at 25mph.
Teal said:
Could be useful if you run out of gas… EV mode might get you to a station at 25mph.
Nope. And don’t run out of gas in a RAV4 Hybrid—apparently you need an OBD scanner to reset it. Saw a video on it.