How to Install an A123 in a Toyota Prius
A123 Systems developed a plug-in conversion kit for the Toyota Prius. It's made for the Generation II and newer Toyota Prius models. These types of kits, which equip the Prius with an additional battery, means conventional hybrids can become plug-in hybrids. The price for doing this is steep, upwards of $10,000 as of February 2011, and it can cause Toyota to void the warranty on your Prius. Despite that, there are hybrid owners clamoring for the A123 battery system.
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Instructions
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Contact A123 Systems for a Hymotion L5 conversion kit. A123 claims this battery can yield more than 100 mpg.
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Arrange to have the conversion work performed. At the end of 2010, there were only seven U.S. venues that do the A123 conversion.
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Remove the Prius spare tire. The A123 battery system goes in that rear tire space.
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4
Place the A123 battery carefully in the rear tire compartment space of the Prius. The battery is heavy, upwards of 170 pounds, so a lift is usually needed to place it in the car.
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Make all connections to the Prius electrical system.
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Modify the rear bumper of the Prius with the plug-in electrical socket.
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Tips & Warnings
The A123 battery will allow for mileage boosts of 50 percent or more. Based on the Bureau of Transportation statistics, 78 percent of Americans drive less than 40 miles per day to work and back. Adriver with an average commute could dramatically cut Prius gas usage.
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- Photo Credit Car image by cacheman from Fotolia.com
