Better econ mode

IHonda2002 · 07-24-2005, 10:44 PM

When I use air conditioning in my 2002 Insight, I can tell it really takes a toll on the mileage and power. I need to use a lot more assist which uses more battery too. At freeway speeds it's not too bad, but with a lot of stop and go, the battery can get run down pretty quick. I find myself hitting the econ air on/off button when I accelerate or go up hills and then hit it again when I am going down hills or cruising.

I wish there was a smarter econ mode, one that would turn off the compressor when power is needed and turn it back on when there is extra power available.

Resist · 07-25-2005, 02:22 PM

I guess you're missing the point of ECON mode. It was only designed to allow engine shut off when the car is stopped. Yes it would be nice if the car had a smarter ECON but it doesn't.

It would be better if Honda just gave the Insight electric A/C, that didn't need engine power to operate, like other Hybrid models now have.

IHonda2002 · 07-25-2005, 02:28 PM

Nope. Not missing the point. Just want it better. Always looking to improve things. :)

hawkGT647 · 07-25-2005, 03:38 PM

My '75 Toyota Celica was smart enough to kick out the A/C compressor when you floored the gas, I agree that they could do the same thing with our Insights.

Regards,

IHonda2002 · 07-25-2005, 04:23 PM

Yes, that is exactly what I mean. That'd be nice! :D

Resist · 07-26-2005, 10:40 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by hawkGT647

My '75 Toyota Celica was smart enough to kick out the A/C compressor when you floored the gas, I agree that they could do the same thing with our Insights

I would bet the newer A/C design in the Insight is more effient now than the system in that old 75 was with it's feature.

Insightful Trekker · 07-26-2005, 11:29 PM

And how much more efficent would it be _with_ the feature.

Shouldn't be too hard to design. Either plumb in a MAP sensor and make an additional "AND" condition for compressor on or use the existing MAP signal.

You'd probably want some type of potentiometer for the compressor trip out point so it could be adjusted.

Cost is the consideration. And the real payback in gas savings will be measured in the 10's of thousands of miles.

Willie Williford · 07-27-2005, 01:47 AM

Just picked up a "vacuum switch" that can be used as either "current on or current off".

The amount of vacuum used to actuate the switch is also adjustable from .4 to 30 in. Now I have to figure out what amount of vacuum to use to activate the switch. The AC will automatically shut off during acceleration either in or out of econ mode because of low vacuum.

The switch will be installed in series with the AC compressor.
Two years ago I installed an AC compressor "on" light, and yes mileage does drop when the light is on.

I always run in econ mode and shut off the AC on acceleration with the "button", this switch will save the finger.

figgy · 07-27-2005, 01:50 AM

That is a really good mod.

I am sure a lot of us have fingers that need to rest.

Kevin Dougherty · 07-27-2005, 06:10 AM

Willie, would you post a link or give more info about the switch please