Toyota has developed a smart new hybrid control system that dynamically optimizes the balance between the internal combustion engine (ICE) and electric drive based on driving conditions and route data. The patent, filed with the European Patent Office, describes an innovative system that aims to boost both efficiency and driving enjoyment in Toyota’s plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs)
Smarter Hybrid Driving, Tailored to You
The patent doesn’t seem to break new ground, but is notable for its intelligent operation, as opposed to current PHEV systems that are usually reactive, based on whatever the current conditions are. Toyota’s evolution of this logic now takes into account many more factors when deciding which of the drive modes – ICE or electric – or a blend of such, to use:
- User preferences
- Overall driving efficiency
- The current driving route and the presence of low/no-emission zones on it
- Driving conditions
Toyota says that its new system optimizes the driving experience by catering to the driver’s preferences and improving efficiency. It does this by intelligently divvying up the propulsion duties between the ICE and electric drive in a way not previously done. Its ability to automatically use electric drive in no-emissions areas and take into account user preferences makes this patent unique.
Navigation-Linked Intelligence for Smarter Efficiency
What remains unclear is exactly how the system determines when to switch between power sources, and how it ensures there’s enough battery left for upcoming electric-only zones. It’s likely tied to the car’s navigation system, using route data to anticipate low-emission areas. While the finer details are still under wraps, any step that helps PHEVs use energy more intelligently and efficiently is a welcome one.
