The Toyota Prius is a hybrid car that combines a small gas engine with battery power, alternating between the two to deliver maximum fuel efficiency. However, when temperatures are colder, the Prius tends to run the motor more because of the cooler temperature, which decreases fuel mileage. One solution that some Prius owners have experimented with is blocking the grille to allow less cool air to enter the engine bay, in essence tricking the engine into running less. Here's what Prius owners are doing, according to postings on the Priuschat forum.
Examine the upper and lower grilles located at the front of the Prius. These are the openings that you'll need to block.
Measure the length of the grilles with a tape measure. Measure the same distance on the 3/4-inch pipe insulation and make a mark with a pen or pencil.
Cut the insulation with the scissors. It may help to use larger upholstery scissors or even shears to cut the insulation, rather than normal household scissors.
Wrap the pre-cut pieces of pipe insulation around the Prius' upper grill slats and tie them off with larger zip ties on either end. Repeat the process of wrapping and then zip-tying the pipe insulation around the lower grill slats.
Test drive your Prius to see if you have better gas mileage, particularly on the highway.
