Seems like I read somewhere (but can't remember where) a few days ago that the 2009 FEH & MMH have been programed to run up to 40 miles per hour (rather than the previous limit of 30 MPH) under ideal conditions before the ICE cuts in.

Can anyone corroborate this - - and if so, is it possible to have an older model FEH or MMH reprogramed to do the same?

 

I can confirm the '09 FEH/MMH has a strong 40mph limit in EV. In fact, you can set the cruise control from 25mph to 40mph and it will cycle in and out of EV automatically. The SoC will drop down to 39.3% for a restart and at 42% it will automatically go EV again. If there is a strong headwind, you may have to bump the SET Minus button once to go EV between 38mph and 40mph.

As far as programming earlier models to do this, I'm almost sure the strong 40mph EV speed is because of the new Variable Voltage Converter (VVC) Ford changed too in the '09 FEH/MMH. Toyota calls this new converter a Buck Boost Converter which they installed in the new 2004 Prius II. These converters are said to boost voltage and have much less conversion losses than the '05 - '08 FEH/MMH AC - DC converters. These converters are located within the eCVT and as far as I know, they can't be changed.

One video of the '09 MMH claims the new system has increased EV distance at 30mph to 3 miles now. I haven't confirmed this because I seldom have a higher than 48% SoC due to my FEH going EV at steady state speeds under 40mph or any time you let off the accelerator under 40mph.

The higher EV speed was one reason I ordered the new FEHL. It's perfect on roads with 35mph speed limits where everyone is going 40mph.

GaryG

 

Thanks GaryG. Your rationale for ordering a new FEH is just the reason I asked the question. I could spend a LOT more time in EV mode if I could cruise at 39 MPH vs. 29 MPH. At 29 MPH I'm in too much danger of being run over on most roads! :-)

 

I can do 39 in my 08 in EV (even from a full stop,) the moment it hits 40 the ICE kicks in. I am not sure of the maximum distance I can stay in EV at 39mph, but I know I have gone at least 1.5 miles, not sure of my SoC since I don't have navigation or the mini-computer. If I drop down below 40 from a higher speed I have to double-tap or go to L to get into EV mode.

 

Doug,

My 2005 FEH 4WD can go up to 42-MPH (indicated) until the ICE comes on. I have to be on a flat road or a road with a decending grade in order to do so. I can set the cruise control at 40-MPH and run in EV mode for a couple minutes before the ICE comes on.

Gary,

Do I understand correctly that with the 2009 FEH, one just has to release the accelerator and it will go into EV mode under 40-MPH, so one no longer has to use one of the techniques (i.e., shift to L, double tap, etc.) in order to get it into EV mode, unlike the 2005s - 2008s? I assume there is a couple second delay before it does so.

 

First of all, the computer will not let ANY FEH go over 41mph in EV, so 42mph is impossible without programming problems.

Forget "D" double tap, "L" shifting and the "N" tap in the '09 FEH to go EV. Ford made it simple in the '09 FEH/MMH. It is instant, no delay what so ever and you can shift to NEUTRAL at 40mph or above to go EV at 40mph. Not 39mph, but 40mph you will glide to EV from any speed. The big thing is you go fuel cut above 45mph in addition in "D". That's right folks, let off the accelerator at 80mph or more in "D", and you burn no gas till you restart or add for more power above 40mph.

I've tried to explain this for many months, and a few ordered the '09 FEH/MMH like I did. My SYNC voice is great!, I don't see those voice problems so far and I enjoy calling my list without removing my phone from my pocket.

I call them as as see them!

GaryG

 

So at this point the only way to get the new programming would be to spend $$$$ and get an 09 huh? These programming changes are dependent on the new VVC?

I need a smiley for envy! OK, I re-read GaryG post, yes, I am bummed now. Would like someone from Ford to confirm though (yea, I know, good luck with that.)

At this point I am very surprised the rating was only 1 mpg better on the 09... obviously we all do better than the ratings with our techniques and attentiveness, but still.