There probably is no "good" answer to your question except for the fact that semi-continuous use of "B" mode is outside the primary design considerations.

Personally I would be tempted to go exactly the opposite and modify the vehicle to automatically shift into neutral anytime the gas pedal is fully released. Using regenerative braking to "simulate" engine compression braking during coastdown periods, artificially shortening the coasting distance, seems opposite to the FE design goals.

 

I suspect you might be able to re-engage CC once the shifter is in the "B" position.

 

I thought I had read somewhere on this site (way back when I first got my TCH) that shifting to B actually maximizes regenerative braking. Now it looks like the consensus is that it uses zero regenerative braking. I may actually need to RTFM.

 

Lots of hybrid salespersons were giving that impression.

 

chris_h,

The system allows you an alternative to hydraulic braking on long downhills. Regenerative braking would overcharge the traction battery in that case so it is eliminated once the battery is charged. You then have either engine braking (manual by the driver) or hydraulic via the brake pedal.

 

Unfortunately, as long as you're in the "B" position, CC is disabled. Luckily, the TCH CC memory retains the desired speed, so you can re-engage once you go into "D" again.

 

The memory only works if you stay above 25mph. If you drop below that, you need to reset the desired speed.

 

I believe that, if the NiMH battery isn't "full," regenerative braking is actually increased when in 'B,' compared with 'D.' Certainly, the power flow arrow still points from the wheel to the battery in the MFD. In addition to increased regenerative braking, the ICE is also spun up to provide (lossy) engine braking. The total amount of braking is thus substantially greater in 'B' than the mild amount of regenerative braking applied when coasting in 'D.'

My TCH's CC retains its memory even when the car is braked to a stop.

Stan

 

Stan, I wonder if that is a Canada spec vs US spec, as I have owned several Toyotas in the last 15 years, and they all have exhibited that behavior... the CC loosing the pre-set speed when I brake or slow below 25mph. I can't specifically state that it will if I use B mode down to below 25mph, as I have never tried that.

 

As Stanley wrote, the one big difference between the Prius and TCH's CC is that the TCH retains preset speed after slowing below 25 mph (even if you stop). Naturally, if DOES get erased if you turn the car off.