October 2023 - Lithia Toyota of Abilene

The New RAV4 Prime is the Hybrid of Choice

Having to make a choice can be a daunting proposition – but having the freedom to choose is part of what makes life special. From what you prepare for breakfast to what TV series you decide to stream before bed, our daily routines consist of a string of simple choices that coalesce to grant us the gift of autonomy within our own lives.

Toyota understands that freedom of choice is a critical component to enjoying life. With the 2024 RAV4 Prime, Toyota is packaging that freedom in the form of a plug-in hybrid, compact SUV. With multiple ways to drive, two unique and sporty grades, and ever-expanding charging options, you’ve never been more in control of your driving destiny.

Two Ways to Drive

The RAV4 Prime is a true hybrid-electric fusion, offering two adaptable methods of transport capable of swapping between one another on the fly, depending on what the driver’s day entails. Its Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV) powertrain enables the RAV4 Prime to be driven as an efficient hybrid on long journeys. For short trips and daily commutes, EV-only mode can be enabled, which eliminates all carbon emissions while offering the driver a manufacturer-estimated 42 miles of range.

No special equipment is required for home charging. (Though the available level 2 charger can shave charging time from 12 hours to less than three, it does require a home installation.) Plugging the RAV4 Prime into a standard outlet overnight recharges its 18.1kWh lithium-ion battery pack, enabling the RAV4 to remain in EV mode during your commute. When charging outlets can’t be accessed, never fear – the RAV4 Prime can continue onwards as a hybrid.

Together, these two power sources compile four modes of hybrid system operation:

EV Mode: relies solely on onboard battery to power vehicle.
HV/EV Auto Mode: relies on electric-only mode to conserve fuel and reduce emissions while automatically turning on gas engine when needed.
HV Mode: automatically switches between gas engine and electric motor.
Charge Mode: RAV4 runs exclusively on 2.5L engine while the battery charges.

Performance of a Lifetime

Regardless of which driving mode you prefer, the RAV4 Prime was built with performance in mind first and foremost. 302 net combined horsepower makes it one of the fastest models in Toyota’s lineup, capable of reaching 60 MPH in just 5.5 seconds. The RAV4 Prime includes standard electric on-demand all-wheel drive, with a separate rear-mounted electric motor powering the real wheels when needed.

The 2024 RAV 4 will come in two sporty grades: the SE and XSE. The standard list of equipment and features for the SE includes:

Heated front seats
8-way power driver’s seat with lumbar adjustment
7-inch Multi-Information Display
Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert
8-inch Toyota Audio Multimedia touchscreen

Meanwhile, the XSE comes equipped with:

Exclusive 19-inch two-tone alloy wheels
Vertical LED accent lights
10.5-inch Toyota Audio Multimedia touchscreen display with JBL speakers including subwoofer and amplifier is standard on the XSE grade.
12.3-inch digital Multi-Information Display (MID) with customizable settings

Charging Ahead

Last week, Toyota announced a new agreement with Tesla, furthering its commitment to the electric vehicle market. As part of the deal, Toyota will adopt the North American Charging Standard on its battery vehicles starting in 2025. This will give Toyota drivers expanded access to over 12,000 Tesla Superchargers across North America.

Add in the over 84,000 charging ports in North America Toyota users already have access to – including level 2 and DC fast charges – and the Toyota charging network has never been more all-encompassing.

It’s Prime Time

Seamlessly blending powerful performance, SUV capabilities, roomy interior comfort, and multiple driving methods, the 2024 RAV4 Prime is the vehicle for the driver who wants a little bit of everything. Why agonize over choosing your next vehicle when you can select the one hybrid capable of identifying and acclimating to your specific, daily needs?

Here at Lithia Toyota of Abilene, we’re your leaders for all things EV. Stop by today and check out our inventory of new and used hybrids today. At Lithia Toyota of Abilene, the choice will always be yours – we’re just looking to help make that choice a little easier.

5 Easy Ways to Extend Your Battery’s Lifespan This Fall

As the autumn winds sweep in and the weather turns colder, there’s nothing more frustrating than abandoning the warmth of your bed, only to find that your car refuses to start. This problem can often be attributed to a drained battery, which becomes more vulnerable to power loss as temperatures decrease, potentially leaving you stranded in the chill.

To address this issue, here are five simple and affordable strategies to help ensure that your battery remains in good health until the relief of spring warmth arrives:

1. Avoid Short Drives

Contrary to popular belief, frequently running your engine for brief periods can exhaust your battery faster than taking it on a lengthy journey. In essence, short bursts of driving do not allow ample time for your battery to recharge properly, as the process of starting your car puts a strain on it. If you turn off your car just five to ten minutes later, the battery won’t have sufficient time to recuperate, leading to rapid discharge.

It is therefore advisable to plan for extended trips, particularly on the highway, when possible. This strategy allows your battery an extended opportunity to recharge. Opting for a slightly farther grocery store could add a few extra miles to your trip, but the marginal increase in fuel cost is considerably less than the expense of buying a new battery.

2. Don’t Remain Parked in One Spot Too Long

Despite their modern conveniences and innovative technologies, current vehicles are equipped with a plethora of electronic devices that could unwittingly deplete your battery. Even when your vehicle is not in use, features like security systems and keyless entry continue to draw a minimal yet constant current, a phenomenon known as parasitic drain.

If you foresee your vehicle being idle for an extended period, such as when you park at an airport to depart on a holiday vacation, try to minimize parasitic drain by deactivating as many of these features as feasible. Moreover, if you plan to stay home for several consecutive winter days, consider making the journey to your car and running the engine for about 20 minutes daily. In doing so, your battery can stick to its regular charging cycle.

3. Don’t Leave Electronics On with the Engine Off

It’s never a good idea to leave your dashboard active after switching off your car engine, regardless of the season. However, this act poses a greater risk to your battery during the colder months. Always ensure that all electronic devices, including your heater, radio, and headlights, are switched off when you turn off your car. If you happen to be sitting in your car for an extended period of time, it’s more beneficial for your battery to just keep the engine running.

4. Have a Pair of Jumper Cables Handy

We know that your trunk space is precious, but donate at least part of it to a pair of jumper cables. When you find yourself stuck on the side of a wintry road, there’s no guarantee that the first driver to happen upon you will have cables of their own.

At minimum, make sure each time you leave the house that your phone is charged. Hopefully you’re able to jump your car and avoid making a call for a tow, but it’s best to keep every available option open.

5. Monitor Your Battery More Frequently

If you still find yourself frequently worried about the condition of your car battery this Fall, it might be wise to purchase a car battery tester. Regular voltage monitoring can alert you to any impending signs of drain. After each examination, confirm that your battery is securely anchored to avoid potential internal damage caused by vibrations, especially in uneven, rural terrains. If you observe any corrosion, gently clean the battery terminals with cold water and dry them thoroughly with a cloth.

And if all else fails, remember that Toyota of Abilene is here for all your battery service needs. Our comprehensive diagnostic tests will leave no doubt as to what’s ailing your battery and what steps need to be taken next.

Throughout the Fall, stop by our showroom and check out our new and used inventory. And don’t neglect the rest of your vehicle just because your battery is now humming comfortably! From oil changes to parts and more, Toyota of Abilene has everything you need to stay on the road this holiday season.