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Starting and stopping the gasoline engine

An advanced control system determines the distance that the vehicle can be driven on the gasoline engine or electric motors, or both operating systems at the same time. When driving on only the electric motor, the vehicle may automatically start the combustion engine due to outside circumstances, e.g. low ambient temperatures. This is completely normal. The combustion engine will also always start when the hybrid battery is nearly fully discharged.

Climate settings at low temperatures

At low ambient temperatures, the combustion engine will sometimes start automatically to help achieve the desired passenger compartment temperature and air quality. The amount of time the combustion engine is running can be affected by

  • lowering the temperature
  • reducing blower speed
  • activating Pure drive mode.

Using the electric motor in hot or cold weather

At very low or high ambient temperatures, the electric motor's driving range and power may be reduced and affect how often the combustion engine automatically starts.

Emission control system

To help ensure that the emission control system is as energy-efficient as possible, the combustion engine will run for several minutes after it is started. The amount of time the combustion engine needs to be used varies depending on the temperature of the three-way catalytic converter.

 Warning

California Proposition 65

Operating, servicing and maintaining a passenger vehicle can expose you to chemicals including engine exhaust, carbon monoxide, phthalates, and lead, which are known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm. To minimize exposure, avoid breathing exhaust, do not idle the engine except as necessary, service your vehicle in a well ventilated area and wear gloves or wash your hands frequently when servicing your vehicle. For more information go to www.P65Warnings.ca.gov/passenger-vehicle.

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