congrats!
Congratulations, Rick!
Looks like you're enjoying the car!
While I have a 5-speed myself, here is a quick summary of what has been said about CVT and battery use:
The CVT will rev the engine higher on acceleration and uphill driving. That gives more gasoline power and uses less electric power, conserving battery charge. With the 5-speed, I can go up a steep hill in 5th, at just over 2000 rpm. Full electric assist will keep my speed up, but the battery will be empty or recalibrate when I get to the top. The CVT in the same situation would probably rev higher and use less battery charge.
Talking about recalibrations: They are a nuisance in many 5-speeds, but unheard-of in CVTs. Do a search on this forum and the yahoo groups to learn more.
In summary: the 5-speed allows you to use more electric power, but you pay for that with recalibrations.
Congratulations, Rick!
Looks like you're enjoying the car!
While I have a 5-speed myself, here is a quick summary of what has been said about CVT and battery use:
The CVT will rev the engine higher on acceleration and uphill driving. That gives more gasoline power and uses less electric power, conserving battery charge. With the 5-speed, I can go up a steep hill in 5th, at just over 2000 rpm. Full electric assist will keep my speed up, but the battery will be empty or recalibrate when I get to the top. The CVT in the same situation would probably rev higher and use less battery charge.
Talking about recalibrations: They are a nuisance in many 5-speeds, but unheard-of in CVTs. Do a search on this forum and the yahoo groups to learn more.
In summary: the 5-speed allows you to use more electric power, but you pay for that with recalibrations.
