JeffN said:
DucRider said:
This is a simplified version of how the Volt functions. One of the things that makes the Volt such a great car is the ability to switch between serial and parallel hybrid modes, and even some that essentially combine both. As one example, in "Mountain Mode" with ~<50% SOC the engine will be used to supplement the two electric motors. This is apparently how Motor Trend got a 0-60 time 1.3 seconds faster than GMs official time.
I'm not sure from your answer if you still think the 2016+ Volt will start the engine to help propel the car at times when the battery has usable energy and is thus not an EREV. Is this what you still think or did I convince you that it won't start the engine if you floor the accelerator? If you still think the 2016+ Volt is just a PHEV and not an EREV then please cite your source of information and explain why you believe this.
Note that the 2016+ Volt no longer has a series mode. It now always runs with a mechanical path between the engine and wheels either in one of two power-split modes or in a direct fixed gear mode.
For more information on how the 2016+ Volt works in detail here is a link to an article for which I was the lead author:
http://gm-volt.com/2015/02/20/gen-2-volt-transmission-operating-modes-explained/
My original premise is that EREV is a subset or type of PHEV with no legal definition recognized by any regulatory agency.
For rebates, sales figures, HOV access, ZEV credits, etc. - they are treated exactly like any other PHEV.
Toyota could legally market the Prius Prime as an EREV and make an argument that it met the definition.
Yes, the Volt can be classified as an EREV, but that is (at this point at least) only a marketing term.
The only regulatory category differentiating PHEV's primarily designed to operate in electric mode (with the ICE as a backup) is the CARB/ZEV designation of BEVx.
Basic criteria for these vehicle include:
the APU range is equal to or less than the all-electric range;
engine operation cannot occur until the battery charge has been depleted to the charge-sustaining lower limit;
a minimum 80 miles electric range; and
super ultra low emission vehicle (SULEV) and zero evaporative emissions compliant and TZEV warranty requirements on the battery system.
For the 2012 through 2017 model years, BEVxs will be referred to as Type I.5x and Type IIx vehicles, to fit in with the pre-2018 nomenclature for ZEVs. Type I.5x and Type IIx vehicles will receive the same credits as Type I.5 and Type II ZEVs: 2.5 and 3 credits, respectively. Up to 50% of the portion of the ZEV requirement that must be met with pure ZEVs may be met with these Type I.5x and Type IIx vehicles.
The Volt is treated as a TZEV like any other PHEV.
