Car Audio and Hybrids

[djgizmo]

As the days come where it costs more and more to fill up a car, I'm probably heading down the Hybrid path.

Has anyone done any installs on them? Are there any warning / issues with hooking up aftermarket amps to them?

[Notladstyle]

The nimmh batteries have a higher charge rate (15 - 16.5v) and unless you get an unregulated amp or a very voltage tolerant amp, it will go into protect and/or have a very short lifespan.

I installed a small 10 in a Prius and I had a difficult time getting a clean ground- we ended up using the OEM power bolts and he said he noticed that at high volumes the engine would cycle more frequently - im assuming the added draw confused the power management.

All in all, its really not a good idea to try a high output system in a hybrid - they are very finely tuned for the power draw the car presents, putting extra load (beyond 10-20 amps) will inevitably destroy your mileage and possibly shorten the lifespan of the batteries.

[MCOR]

Ahh- I have a "higher end" client with a Hybrid Prius that he bought as a toy a few months ago. He is itching to get aftermarket toys loaded in but we have been hesitant. I have heard a few stray comments that the easiest way to add on is with a Optima red top, battery isolator, and a little wiring know-how. I can't get any solid information yet and I am not financially ready to experiment-although he says he will pay for our experimentation and the possible mess-ups to go along with it. But I am still on the fence. Wheels, upholstery, window tint already done-he is ready to move on with it...

[djgizmo]

Understood. Thanks for the heads up. Guess I'll be keeping with the stock.

The nimmh batteries have a higher charge rate (15 - 16.5v) and unless you get an unregulated amp or a very voltage tolerant amp, it will go into protect and/or have a very short lifespan.

I installed a small 10 in a Prius and I had a difficult time getting a clean ground- we ended up using the OEM power bolts and he said he noticed that at high volumes the engine would cycle more frequently - im assuming the added draw confused the power management.

All in all, its really not a good idea to try a high output system in a hybrid - they are very finely tuned for the power draw the car presents, putting extra load (beyond 10-20 amps) will inevitably destroy your mileage and possibly shorten the lifespan of the batteries.