The Toyota Prius Prime is a plug-in hybrid vehicle that has been making waves in the automotive industry since its launch in 2017. The 2023 model is expected to continue the tradition of its predecessors, offering an eco-friendly and fuel-efficient ride that is perfect for those looking to reduce their carbon footprint. The Prius Prime is equipped with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine and an electric motor, which work together to deliver a combined output of 121 horsepower.
Design and Features The Prius Prime boasts a sleek and modern design that is sure to turn heads on the road. Its exterior features include LED headlights and taillights, a rear spoiler, and 15-inch alloy wheels. Inside, the Prius Prime offers a spacious and comfortable cabin with seating for up to five passengers. Its standard features include a 7-inch touchscreen display, a rearview camera, and a 6-speaker audio system. Higher trims offer additional features like a 11.6-inch touchscreen display, a premium JBL audio system, and wireless smartphone charging.
Key Takeaways
- The Toyota Prius Prime is a plug-in hybrid vehicle that offers an eco-friendly and fuel-efficient ride.
- Its sleek and modern design, spacious cabin, and advanced features make it an attractive option for those looking for a practical and eco-friendly vehicle.
- While the Prius Prime may not be the most powerful vehicle on the road, its impressive fuel economy and low emissions make it a smart choice for those looking to reduce their carbon footprint.
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Design and Features
The 2023 Toyota Prius Prime boasts a sleek and modern design that is sure to turn heads. Its aerodynamic body is not only stylish but also helps to improve fuel efficiency. The vehicle is available in three trims: LE, XLE, and Limited.
Inside, the Prius Prime offers a comfortable and spacious cabin with premium materials throughout. The seats are upholstered in SofTex, a leather-like material that is both durable and eco-friendly. The driver’s seat is power-adjustable, and the rear seats have a 60/40 split-fold design to provide extra cargo space when needed.
The Prius Prime also comes with a range of advanced features to enhance the driving experience. The available 12.3-inch Toyota Audio Multimedia touchscreen display allows the driver to control a variety of functions with ease. It provides turn-by-turn directions, access to multimedia functions, and the ability to connect a smartphone wirelessly to enjoy music, make calls, and send messages.
Other notable features include:
- Smart Key System with Push Button Start
- Qi-compatible wireless smartphone charging
- Dual-zone automatic climate control
- Heated front seats
- Auto-dimming rearview mirror with HomeLink
- Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert
- Toyota Safety Sense 2.0
Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 is a suite of advanced safety features that comes standard on all Prius Prime models. It includes Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection, Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist, Automatic High Beams, and Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control.
Overall, the 2023 Toyota Prius Prime offers a stylish, comfortable, and feature-packed ride that is perfect for eco-conscious drivers who want to save money on fuel without sacrificing comfort or convenience.
Performance and Efficiency of Toyota Prius Prime
The Toyota Prius Prime is a plug-in hybrid car that offers impressive fuel efficiency and performance. The car features a 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine that is paired with an electric motor and a lithium-ion battery pack. The combined output of the engine and the electric motor is 121 horsepower. The car has a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) that provides smooth and seamless acceleration.
The Prius Prime has an all-electric driving range of up to 25 miles, which is perfect for short commutes and errands. When the battery is depleted, the car switches to hybrid mode, which provides a combined fuel economy of up to 52 mpg. According to Toyota, the Prius Prime can achieve up to 127 MPG-equivalent in combined city/highway driving when operating in EV mode. These fuel economy numbers are impressive for a hybrid car.
The car comes with three different driving modes: EV, HV, and EV Auto. In EV mode, the car runs solely on electric power. In HV mode, the car uses both the engine and the electric motor to provide power. In EV Auto mode, the car switches between EV and HV modes depending on the driving conditions to optimize fuel efficiency.
The Prius Prime takes about 5.5 hours to charge with a 120-volt household-style power outlet and around 2 hours and 10 minutes with a 240-volt outlet. The car also features regenerative braking, which captures energy that is normally lost during braking and uses it to recharge the battery pack.
In terms of performance, the Prius Prime accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in 10.5 seconds, which is decent for a car in its class. The car’s handling is also good, thanks to its low center of gravity and well-tuned suspension. Overall, the Toyota Prius Prime offers a good balance of performance and efficiency, making it a great choice for environmentally conscious drivers who want a car that is fun to drive.
Charging and Electric Range of Toyota Prius Prime
The Toyota Prius Prime is a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) that can be charged using a standard 120-volt household outlet or a 240-volt Level 2 charger. The charging time for the Prius Prime depends on the type of charger used. Using a standard 120-volt outlet, the Prius Prime takes about 5.5 hours to fully charge. On the other hand, using a 240-volt Level 2 charger can reduce the charging time to about 2 hours.
The Prius Prime has a manufacturer-estimated all-electric driving range rating of up to 44 miles. This means that the Prius Prime can run on electric power alone for up to 44 miles before switching to its hybrid gas-electric powertrain. The electric range may vary depending on driving conditions, weather, and other factors.
The Prius Prime also has a feature called “Charge Mode” that allows the driver to charge the battery while driving using the gas engine. This feature can be useful when the driver wants to maximize the electric range of the Prius Prime for a specific trip.
It is important to note that the Prius Prime’s electric range is not as long as that of some fully electric vehicles. However, the Prius Prime’s hybrid gas-electric powertrain allows it to have a total driving range of up to 640 miles, making it a practical option for those who need to travel longer distances without worrying about recharging the battery.
In conclusion, the Toyota Prius Prime’s charging time and electric range make it a practical and efficient option for those who want to reduce their carbon footprint and save money on gas. The Charge Mode feature and hybrid powertrain also provide flexibility and convenience for longer trips.
Cost and Value
The 2023 Toyota Prius Prime is a hybrid electric vehicle that offers excellent fuel efficiency and low operating costs. According to Kelley Blue Book, the 2023 Prius Prime has a starting price of $32,350 and can go up to $39,170 for the top trim level. The 2022 and 2021 models have similar pricing ranges.
The Prius Prime’s value proposition is its fuel efficiency. It has an EPA-estimated electric-only range of up to 25 miles and a combined gas-electric range of up to 640 miles. The car’s fuel economy rating is 55 mpg in combined city/highway driving, which is excellent for a car of its size. As a result, the Prius Prime can save its owners a significant amount of money on fuel costs over the life of the vehicle.
In addition to fuel savings, the Prius Prime also qualifies for federal tax credits of up to $7,500, depending on the buyer’s tax situation. This can make the car even more affordable for those who are eligible.
The Prius Prime also comes with a range of standard features that add to its value proposition. These include a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, a rearview camera, and a suite of advanced safety features such as automatic emergency braking and pedestrian detection.
Overall, the Toyota Prius Prime offers excellent value for those looking for a fuel-efficient and affordable hybrid electric vehicle. Its low operating costs, federal tax credits, and standard features make it an attractive option for those in the market for a new car.
Comparison with Competitors of Toyota Prius Prime
The Toyota Prius Prime is a popular hybrid car, but how does it compare to its competitors? Let’s take a look at some of the top alternatives to the Prius Prime.
Tesla Model 3
The Tesla Model 3 is a luxury electric car that offers impressive performance and technology. While it may be more expensive than the Prius Prime, it offers a longer driving range and faster acceleration. The Model 3 also has a sleek and modern design, which may be more appealing to some buyers.
Hyundai Ioniq
The Hyundai Ioniq is a hybrid car that offers similar fuel efficiency to the Prius Prime, but at a lower price point. It also has a spacious interior and a comfortable ride. However, it may not have as many advanced features as the Prius Prime, such as a larger touchscreen display or a wireless charging pad.
Honda Insight
The Honda Insight is another hybrid car that offers good fuel efficiency and a comfortable ride. It also has a sleek and stylish design, which may be more appealing to some buyers. However, it may not have as many advanced features as the Prius Prime, such as a larger battery or a more advanced infotainment system.
Kia Niro
The Kia Niro is a crossover SUV that offers a hybrid or plug-in hybrid powertrain. It has a spacious interior and a comfortable ride, as well as advanced safety features. However, it may not have as good fuel efficiency as the Prius Prime, especially in the hybrid version.
Overall, the Toyota Prius Prime is a strong contender in the hybrid car market, offering good fuel efficiency, advanced features, and a comfortable ride. While there may be some competitors that offer better performance or a lower price point, the Prius Prime is a reliable and practical choice for many buyers.
What are the Pros of the Prius Prime?
The 2023 Toyota Prius Prime is a plug-in hybrid vehicle that offers several benefits to its drivers. Here are some of the pros of the Prius Prime:
1. Impressive Fuel Economy
One of the main advantages of the Prius Prime is its excellent fuel efficiency. According to Car and Driver, the vehicle can travel up to 25 miles on electric power alone, making it a great option for short commutes and errands. When the gas engine kicks in, the Prius Prime can achieve an impressive 54 mpg in combined city/highway driving.
2. Lively Acceleration
The 2023 Prius Prime features a new 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that provides more power than the previous model. As a result, the vehicle offers livelier acceleration and a more engaging driving experience. According to Cars.com, the new engine produces 24-26 hp more than the conventional Prius hybrid.
3. Advanced Technology Features
The Prius Prime comes with a range of advanced technology features that make driving safer and more convenient. For example, the vehicle features a large touchscreen display that provides access to the infotainment system, navigation, and climate control settings. The Prius Prime also comes with a suite of driver assistance features, including adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking.
4. Eco-Friendly Design
As a plug-in hybrid vehicle, the Prius Prime is designed to be eco-friendly and reduce emissions. The vehicle features a sleek and aerodynamic design that helps to improve fuel efficiency, as well as an electric motor that provides emissions-free driving for short distances. Additionally, the Prius Prime is made with environmentally-friendly materials, such as plant-derived plastics and recycled materials.
Overall, the 2023 Toyota Prius Prime offers a range of benefits to drivers who are looking for an eco-friendly and efficient vehicle. With its impressive fuel economy, lively acceleration, advanced technology features, and eco-friendly design, the Prius Prime is a great option for anyone who wants to reduce their carbon footprint and save money on gas.
What are the cons of the Prius Prime?
The 2023 Toyota Prius Prime is a plug-in hybrid that has many benefits, such as its fuel efficiency and low emissions. However, there are also some downsides to consider before purchasing this vehicle.
One of the main cons of the Prius Prime is its limited electric-only range. While it can travel up to 25 miles on electric power alone, this range may not be enough for some drivers. Once the electric range is depleted, the vehicle switches to gas power, which reduces its overall fuel efficiency.
Another con of the Prius Prime is its higher price tag compared to other non-plug-in hybrid vehicles. This is due to the additional technology and features required for the plug-in hybrid system. The base model of the Prius Prime starts at $28,220, which is significantly more expensive than the base model of the regular Prius.
The Prius Prime also has a smaller cargo area compared to other vehicles in its class. The battery takes up some of the space in the trunk, which reduces the amount of room available for luggage and other items.
Finally, some drivers may find the interior of the Prius Prime to be less luxurious compared to other vehicles in its class. While it has many advanced features, such as a large touchscreen display and smartphone integration, the overall design and materials used may not be as high-end as some competitors.
Overall, while the 2023 Toyota Prius Prime has many benefits, there are also some drawbacks to consider before making a purchase.
Consumer Reviews
The 2022 Toyota Prius Prime has received generally positive reviews from consumers. The vehicle has an overall rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars based on 27 reviews on Edmunds. Here are some of the key takeaways from the reviews:
- The Prius Prime is a great choice for those looking for a fuel-efficient vehicle. Many consumers praised the vehicle’s ability to achieve high gas mileage and save money on fuel costs.
- The car is also praised for its comfortable and spacious interior. The seats are comfortable, and there is plenty of legroom and headroom for passengers.
- The vehicle’s infotainment system is easy to use and intuitive, according to many consumers. The system includes features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, which allow drivers to easily connect their smartphones to the car.
- Some consumers noted that the vehicle’s exterior design is not as attractive as some other cars in its class. However, this is largely a matter of personal preference.
- A few consumers reported issues with the vehicle’s battery range. However, this is not a common complaint, and most drivers find that the battery provides plenty of range for their daily needs.
Overall, the 2022 Toyota Prius Prime is a solid choice for those looking for a fuel-efficient vehicle with a comfortable interior and user-friendly features. While the vehicle’s exterior design may not be to everyone’s taste, the car’s many positive attributes make it a popular choice among consumers.
What is the main difference between Prius and Prius Prime?
The Toyota Prius and Toyota Prius Prime are both hybrid vehicles that offer impressive fuel efficiency. However, there are some key differences between the two models that buyers should be aware of before making a purchase.
The main difference between the Prius and Prius Prime is that the Prime is a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV), while the Prius is a traditional hybrid. This means that the Prius Prime has a larger battery that can be charged by plugging it into an electrical outlet, allowing it to run on electricity alone for a short distance before switching to gasoline power.
The Prius Prime also has a longer electric-only range than the Prius, with an estimated 38 miles of all-electric driving compared to the Prius’ electric-only range of just a few miles. This makes the Prius Prime a great choice for drivers who have a short daily commute and can charge their vehicle overnight.
In addition to its larger battery and longer electric-only range, the Prius Prime also has a more powerful electric motor than the Prius. This gives it a total system output of 220 horsepower, compared to the Prius’ 121 horsepower. As a result, the Prius Prime is able to accelerate more quickly and has a higher top speed than the Prius.
Overall, the Prius Prime is a more advanced and powerful version of the Prius that offers a longer electric-only range and better performance. However, it is also more expensive than the Prius and may not be the best choice for drivers who don’t have access to an electrical outlet for charging.
Is a Prius Prime worth it?
The 2023 Toyota Prius Prime is a plug-in hybrid vehicle that is designed to be fuel-efficient, eco-friendly, and packed with advanced features. But is it worth the investment? Here are some factors to consider:
Fuel Efficiency
One of the main reasons to consider the Prius Prime is its fuel efficiency. According to Toyota, the Prius Prime can achieve an estimated 55 miles per gallon (mpg) in combined gas-electric mode, which is significantly higher than many other vehicles in its class. Additionally, the Prius Prime has an estimated electric-only range of up to 25 miles, which can help save even more on fuel costs.
Advanced Features
The Prius Prime comes with a variety of advanced features that can make driving safer and more convenient. Some of these features include:
- Adaptive cruise control
- Lane departure warning with steering assist
- Automatic high beams
- Pre-collision system with pedestrian detection
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility
Price
The Prius Prime is generally more expensive than the standard Prius, with a starting price of around $29,000. However, it may still be a cost-effective choice for those who prioritize fuel efficiency and advanced features. In addition, there may be tax incentives available for those who purchase a plug-in hybrid vehicle, which can help offset the cost.
Overall, whether or not the Prius Prime is worth it will depend on an individual’s priorities and budget. Those who prioritize fuel efficiency and advanced features may find that the Prius Prime is a great investment, while others may prefer a more affordable or traditional vehicle.
Is the Prius Prime fully electric?
The 2023 Toyota Prius Prime is a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) that operates on both gasoline and electricity. It has a large battery pack that allows it to drive up to 44 miles on electricity alone before switching to gasoline power. The vehicle uses a Hybrid Synergy Drive system that combines the power of a gasoline engine with an electric motor to provide a more efficient driving experience.
While the Prius Prime is not fully electric, it offers many benefits of an electric vehicle without the range anxiety that can come with pure electric vehicles. The vehicle can be charged at home or at public charging stations, and it can also recharge the battery while driving through regenerative braking. This means that the battery is charged by the energy that is normally lost during braking, making the vehicle more efficient and reducing the need for frequent charging.
The Prius Prime also offers different driving modes that allow the driver to choose how the vehicle uses its power. The EV mode allows the vehicle to run on electricity alone, while the Hybrid mode combines the power of the gasoline engine and the electric motor for maximum efficiency. The vehicle also has an Eco mode that optimizes the vehicle’s performance for maximum fuel efficiency.
In conclusion, the 2023 Toyota Prius Prime is not fully electric, but it is a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle that offers many of the benefits of an electric vehicle without the range anxiety. It has a large battery pack that allows it to drive up to 44 miles on electricity alone, and it uses a Hybrid Synergy Drive system to provide a more efficient driving experience. The vehicle can be charged at home or at public charging stations, and it offers different driving modes that allow the driver to choose how the vehicle uses its power.
How far can a 2023 Prius Prime go on battery only?
The 2023 Toyota Prius Prime can go up to 44 miles on battery power alone, according to Toyota estimates. This is a significant improvement from the previous model, which had an EPA-rated electric range of 25 miles. The increase in range is due to the larger battery capacity of the 2023 Prius Prime, which is now 13.6 kWh.
The Prius Prime also has different driving modes that can help optimize its electric range. The EV Auto mode, for example, automatically switches between electric and hybrid modes based on driving conditions to maximize efficiency. The EV mode, on the other hand, allows the driver to operate the vehicle solely on electric power for a limited distance.
It’s worth noting that the actual range of the Prius Prime on battery power will depend on various factors, such as driving habits, weather conditions, and terrain. For instance, driving in cold weather can decrease the battery range, while driving in mild weather can increase it. Similarly, driving uphill can decrease the range, while driving downhill can increase it.
Overall, the 2023 Toyota Prius Prime offers a significant improvement in electric range compared to its predecessor. With up to 44 miles of electric range and different driving modes to optimize efficiency, the Prius Prime can be a great option for those looking for a fuel-efficient and eco-friendly vehicle.
Why is it so hard to find a Prius Prime?
The Toyota Prius Prime is a popular plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) that has been in high demand since its release. However, it can be difficult to find one available for purchase or lease. Here are some reasons why:
Limited Production
Toyota only produces a limited number of Prius Prime models each year, which can make it difficult to find one at a dealership. The company has stated that it intends to increase production in the future, but for now, the limited supply is a contributing factor to the vehicle’s scarcity.
High Demand
The Prius Prime is a popular choice for environmentally conscious drivers who want to reduce their carbon footprint without sacrificing style or performance. As a result, demand for the vehicle has been high, especially in areas where electric and hybrid vehicles are popular.
Regional Availability
The Prius Prime is not available in all regions, which can make it difficult to find one in certain areas. Some states have stricter emissions regulations, which make them more attractive markets for eco-friendly vehicles. As a result, dealerships in those areas may have a larger inventory of Prius Primes than dealerships in other regions.
Price
The Prius Prime is more expensive than the regular Prius, which can make it a less attractive option for some buyers. Additionally, the federal tax credit for plug-in hybrid vehicles has been phased out for Toyota models, which can make the Prius Prime less affordable for some buyers.
Overall, the limited production, high demand, regional availability, and price of the Prius Prime are contributing factors to its scarcity in the market. However, for those who are able to find one, the vehicle offers a unique combination of fuel efficiency, performance, and style that make it a popular choice among eco-conscious drivers.
How Many Miles Can a Prius Prime Go on a Full Charge?
The 2023 Toyota Prius Prime is a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) that can be charged using an external power source. According to the official Toyota website, the Prius Prime has an EPA-estimated 25-mile EV Mode driving range rating, which means it can travel up to 25 miles on a full charge in all-electric mode.
However, the actual range of the Prius Prime on a full charge may vary depending on several factors, such as driving habits, weather conditions, and terrain. For example, driving at high speeds or using the air conditioning can reduce the range, while driving at low speeds or in mild weather can increase the range.
If the battery charge runs out, the Prius Prime will automatically switch to its gasoline hybrid system, which means it can continue to run as an efficient hybrid with an EPA-estimated 54 mpg combined rating. This means that even if the battery charge runs out, the Prius Prime can still travel a considerable distance on a full tank of gasoline.
To maximize the electric range of the Prius Prime, it is recommended to charge it whenever possible. The Prius Prime can be charged using a standard 120V household outlet or a 240V charging station. Charging times vary depending on the type of outlet and the battery level, but a full charge can take up to 5.5 hours using a standard 120V outlet or 2.2 hours using a 240V charging station.
In summary, the 2023 Toyota Prius Prime has an EPA-estimated 25-mile EV Mode driving range rating on a full charge. However, the actual range may vary depending on several factors. If the battery charge runs out, the Prius Prime can still travel a considerable distance using its gasoline hybrid system. To maximize the electric range, it is recommended to charge the Prius Prime whenever possible using a standard 120V household outlet or a 240V charging station.
How Far Can a Prius Prime Go on a Full Tank?
The Prius Prime is a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) that combines a gasoline engine with an electric motor and battery. This combination allows the Prius Prime to achieve an impressive fuel economy and range. But how far can a Prius Prime go on a full tank of gas?
According to the official Toyota website, the Prius Prime has an estimated range of 640 miles on a full tank of gas. This estimate is based on the Prius Prime’s fuel economy rating of 54 miles per gallon (mpg) combined city/highway driving and a fuel tank capacity of 11.3 gallons. However, the actual range may vary depending on driving conditions, driving habits, and other factors.
Some Prius Prime owners have reported getting even better range on a single tank of gas. In a thread on the PriusChat forum, one owner reported getting 590 miles on a single tank during a road trip, driving conservatively at 70 miles per hour. Another owner reported getting 700 miles on a single tank, driving mostly on the highway at 65-70 mph.
It’s important to note that the Prius Prime is designed to be driven as an electric vehicle as much as possible, using the electric motor and battery for propulsion. In fact, the Prius Prime has an all-electric range of up to 25 miles on a full charge, according to the Toyota website. This means that for most daily driving, the Prius Prime may not even need to use any gasoline at all.
In summary, the Prius Prime has an estimated range of 640 miles on a full tank of gas, but actual range may vary. Some owners have reported getting even better range on a single tank, but this depends on driving conditions and habits. The Prius Prime is designed to be driven as an electric vehicle as much as possible, with an all-electric range of up to 25 miles.
Can You Plug a Prius Prime into a Regular Outlet?
Yes, you can. The Toyota Prius Prime comes with a charging cable that can be plugged into a standard 120-volt household outlet. This is known as Level 1 charging and can add about 4 miles of range per hour. However, it will take approximately 5.5 hours to fully recharge the battery using this method.
While it is possible to charge the Prius Prime using a regular outlet, it is not the most efficient method. If you want to charge your vehicle faster, you can use Level 2 charging. This requires a 240-volt outlet and a charging station. If you have access to a Level 2 charging station, you can fully charge your Prius Prime in just over 2 hours.
It is important to note that you should never drive the Prius Prime without gasoline in the tank. The gasoline engine is used to power the vehicle when the battery is depleted. The battery can be recharged using the charging cable or by regenerative braking while driving.
Overall, the Prius Prime is a versatile vehicle that can be charged using a regular outlet or a Level 2 charging station. While Level 1 charging is slower, it is still a viable option for those who do not have access to a Level 2 charging station.
Should I charge my Prius Prime every night?
It is generally advantageous to keep the Prius Prime charged, but the question of whether to charge it every night depends on the driver’s usage and driving habits. The more often the Prius Prime is fully charged, the greater the gasoline fuel savings will be.
According to Toyota’s FAQ, Prius Prime owners should never drive their vehicle without gasoline in the tank. The gasoline engine serves as a backup power source when the battery is depleted, and it also helps recharge the battery. Therefore, it is not necessary to charge the battery every night if the driver’s daily commute is short enough to be covered by the battery’s range.
However, if the driver has a longer commute or plans to take a longer trip, charging the battery every night may be necessary to ensure that the battery’s range is sufficient. The Prius Prime has a range of up to 25 miles on electric power alone, and up to 640 miles on a full tank of gas and a full battery charge, according to ChargePoint.
Charging the Prius Prime every night can also be beneficial for drivers who have access to free or low-cost charging at home or at work. According to ChargePoint, the cost to fully charge a Prius Prime battery is about $1.50, and the savings can add up over time.
In summary, whether or not to charge the Prius Prime every night depends on the driver’s usage and driving habits. If the driver has a short daily commute and does not plan to take longer trips, charging the battery every night may not be necessary. However, if the driver has a longer commute or plans to take longer trips, charging the battery every night can help ensure that the battery’s range is sufficient. Additionally, charging the battery every night can be beneficial for drivers who have access to free or low-cost charging.