Loading ...
Loading ...
Loading ...
Low Gear: Low gear (position L) is
designed to mimic the enhanced engine
braking available in non-hybrid vehicles.
Low gear will produce high engine speeds
to provide necessary engine braking. This
is normal and will not damage your vehicle.
In low gear, the gas engine will remain on
more often than in position D.
Unique Hybrid Operating Characteristics
Your vehicle behaves differently compared
to a non-hybrid. Here is a description of
the major differences:
Battery: Your Hybrid is equipped with a
high voltage battery. A cool battery
ensures battery life and provides the best
possible performance. Your hybrid high
voltage battery may periodically
re-condition itself to ensure maximum
efficiency. You may notice slight changes
in driveability during this process, but it is
an important part of your hybrid's high
voltage battery optimization features.
Cabin air cools the high voltage battery by
pulling air through vents in the rear
package tray. Avoid placing objects on the
package tray which could block air flow
through the vents.
If you leave your vehicle inoperative for
over 31 days, it may be necessary to
jumpstart the vehicle. See Roadside
Emergencies (page 225).
Engine: The engine speed in your hybrid
is not directly tied to your vehicle speed.
Your vehicle's engine and transmission
are designed to deliver the power you
need at the most efficient engine speed.
During heavy accelerations, your hybrid
may reach high engine speeds (up to
6000 RPM).
In prolonged mountainous driving, you
may see the engine tachometer changing
without your input. This is intentional and
maintains the battery charge level. You
may also notice during extended downhill
driving that your engine continues to run
instead of shutting off.
During this engine braking, the engine
stays on, but it is not using any fuel. You
may also hear a slight whine or whistle
when operating your vehicle. This is the
normal operation of the electric generator
in the hybrid system.
During certain events (such as vehicle
servicing) your low voltage 12-volt battery
may become disconnected or disabled.
Once the battery is reconnected and after
driving the vehicle, the engine may
continue to operate for three to five
seconds after the key is turned to off. This
is a normal condition.
Braking: Your hybrid is equipped with
standard hydraulic braking and
regenerative braking. Regenerative
braking is performed by your transmission
and it captures brake energy and stores
it in your high voltage battery.
Driving to optimize fuel economy
Note: Having your engine running is not
always an indication of inefficiency. In
some cases, it is actually more efficient
than driving in electric mode.
Your fuel economy should improve
throughout your hybrid's break-in period.
As with any vehicle, your driving habits
and accessory usage can significantly
impact your fuel economy. For best results,
keep in mind these tips:
153
MKZ (CC9)
Unique Driving Characteristics
Loading ...
Loading ...
Loading ...