M35h provides the driver with information about the flow of energy to and from the lithium-ion battery, current and average fuel economy, and even a history of miles driven in EV mode. The gauges and displays that provide this information are in two locations: the in-dash monitor and the meter pod. Here is a look at each location.
In-dash Monitor
The monitor on the center of the dash can display energy flow, energy usage, and fuel economy information in addition to navigation maps and the RearView Monitor display.
A 3-D graphic of the vehicle’s energy flow displays whether the vehicle is using the electric motor only, the gasoline engine only, or both.
It also displays when the regenerative brake system is charging the lithium-ion battery.
When using the navigation system, the driver can display energy flow, current fuel economy, and average fuel economy. Also, this information can be displayed in a split-screen format allowing the driver to see the navigation map at the same time.
The Energy/Fuel History display shows mileage attained over increments of time and also indicates the percentage of time the vehicle is regenerating energy. Each regeneration symbol indicates 30 watt hours (the energy from 30 watt hours will illuminate a 30-watt bulb for one hour). Information is displayed in 2-minute intervals with readings up to 50 mpg.
Meter Pod
The meter pod has several hybrid-specific gauges, indicator lights, and LCD displays.
Assist charge gauge
The assist charge gauge (above left) indicates when the lithium-ion battery is being charged or discharged.
EV and ECO Indicator Lights
The EV light (above middle) illuminates when driving with the electric traction motor only.
The ECO light (above right) illuminates to alert the driver when to change driving habits to improve economy. It is linked to the acceleration guide in the liquid crystal display (LCD). The light will be amber at start-up, turn green, and then turn off. When the Drive Mode Selector is in ECO mode, the ECO light will be green when driving economically, while amber indicates that a change in driving behavior could result in more efficient fuel consumption. The green light will flash to indicate that driving behavior is beginning to negatively affect fuel consumption.
READY Indicator Light
The READY light (below left) appears in the instrument gauges to indicate the system is operating. Because sometimes the engine is not running, the READY light will be the only indication the system is on.
The system is designed to help prevent the vehicle from being left in READY mode accidentally. When the transmission is put in Park, the driver’s seat belt is unfastened, and the driver’s door is opened, the gasoline engine will start, creating a sound to alert you to turn the vehicle off.
LCD Displays
LCD displays (above right) provide information about the state of charge of the lithium-ion battery, system energy flow, and the distance traveled using just the electric motor.
For more detail on hybrid-specific displays, see Section 2 of the M35h Owner’s Manual