Well, it was a good gathering, with many memorable highlights including:
An open, operating Insight CVT demonstration stand;
Several open Hybrid Synergy Drive, controls, and battery exhibit and demonstration systems;
A Prius Classic with almost 317,000 miles (and intesting stories of the travels;
A Nissan Altima Hybrid;
Modified Insight and Prius II demonstration and test drives (by/with informed owners);
Lots of very interesting techno toys, including the remarkable Insight with electric drive 5th wheel;
An assortment of picture-perfect fancy pastries (graciously contributed by a non-attending spouse);
Most importantly, interesting people from CT, MA, RI, and NJ;
And finally, an enjoyable dinner with a view of a spectacular sunset, high over Lake Chargoggagoggmanchaugagoggchaubunagungamaugg (yes, I can actually pronounce it
)
Hopefully others will post pictures soon.
Thanks to Mike for hosting the event!
There wasn’t much interest in a fuel economy trial that was planned over a 17 mile loop, but the documentation was really good, so hopefully it can be used sometime in the future.
My FE travelling to the event was 82.7mpg, running heavy to a very hilly urban college campus with all of the associated city traffic starts and stops. 89.3mpg on the return that was 90+ % highway, with 75% long hills.
When it comes to FE in production vehicles, Insights still rule….for now; but I’ll join the celebration when something better becomes available; ‘hopefully soon.
