I was in the restroom at work yesterday when I heard two people talking about how hybrids are good at low speed due to the electric motors, but there was no advantage at highway speeds since the engine has to run.

You know I jumped on the opportunity to tell them about the Atkinson cycle engine, how the motor/generators add to the ICE at highway speed, that I had 625 miles on my current tank of gas and I might fill up today if I'm so inclined and that my car's display was reading 44.6 mpg for the current tank.

At least they didn't think I had to plug it in.

 

I usually carry brochures for such encounters

 

Droid, you carry brochures in the restroom LOL! Sorry, it was just a funny picture & gave me a chuckle thanks .

 

From what my dealer's mechanics tell me, the Camry hybrid engine is NOT an Atkinson, only the Prius. We just have the regular 4 cylinder.

DON'T jump on me if this is incorrect, I haven't looked at the manual to confirm

 

It is an Atkinson Cycle. That is part of the reason it has reduced HP over the regular one. If you go to Toyota's site and click on the info about the hybrid synergy drive there is a FAQ about the Atkinson Cycle. In there it states that it is deployed in the Prius and the Camry.

 

Ah yes, I have such faith in my dealer's mechanics now...

I Thought it was.

 

The Atkinson cycle engine is a key component. It is much more efficient than a regular (Otto) cycle engine, but produces much less torque. This doesn't make it well suited to most cars, but in a hybrid with the electric motor for a boost, is an ideal combination.

 

LMAO! a customer and salesman all in one! lol toyota should give you a car for free! you are doing so much PR!