Frequently Asked Questions


What vehicles can be converted?
The vehicles that can be converted at this time are the 2004–2011 Toyota Prius (Gen 2 and Gen 3), the Ford Escape Hybrid, the Toyota Highlander Hybrid, and the Toyota Camry Hybrid.

What is added to the vehicle in a conversion?
The Plug-In Supply PHEV conversion adds an additional battery pack, along with all the necessary electronics, to allow the vehicle to drive on electricity for 20–50 miles (depending on battery size and chemistry). Once the auxiliary battery has been depleted, the vehicle reverts to standard hybrid driving mode.

Can I install the system myself?
Yes.

What are the driving modes of the converted vehicle?
The Plug-In Supply PHEV conversion has two modes of operation:

  • Standard Mode
  • Automatic EVTM (AEV) with High Speed EVTM (HSEV)

What is Automatic EVTM (AEV)?
When the system is on the car operates in EV mode, automatically, whenever possible. When extra power is needed — to climb a hill or pass a car — the gas engine comes on automatically to provide that power. When the maneuver is complete and the extra power is no longer needed, the gas engine automatically turns off.

What is High Speed EVTM (HSEV)?
High Speed EVTM is a feature that allows the car to operate as an EV at highway speeds (above 50 MPH).

How far will the car drive in electric vehicle (EV) mode?
The EV range depends on the battery pack of the system, as well as driving conditions and driving style. The 4 KW system will propel the vehicle 20 miles while the 10 KW system will last 50 miles.

What is the maximum speed of the vehicle in EV mode?
72 MPH for the Prius. Plug-In Supply systems allow you to exceed 34 MPH in EV mode.

Does the converted vehicle really get 100+ MPG?
Yes! The PHEV uses the electric motor more than a conventional hybrid, powered by the auxiliary battery pack. This reduces the vehicle's gasoline consumption.

Why is this PHEV system more expensive than Enginer? How do I know I am getting good value?
We use the best high quality components in our systems. For example, compare our price for 40 Ah LiFePO4 cells with prices on the web. You get the best value buying from us. With Plug-In Supply you get what you pay for!

How does EV mode operation affect the vehicle's heating and air conditioning?
Heating the interior of the vehicle requires engine operation. In Toyota hybrids, the air conditioning system is completely electric and can be used in EV mode.

How do I recharge the battery pack?
To recharge the auxiliary battery pack, plug the vehicle into any standard 110 volt, 15 amp AC outlet using a 3 wire, 14 gauge extension cord. During the conversion process an electrical receptacle is added to the bumper.

Can I use public charging stations to charge the vehicle?
Public charging stations often have a variety of charging options. You can use any standard 110 volt, 15 amp AC outlet.

How long does the battery pack take to recharge?
Recharge time depends on the size and chemistry of the battery pack. It is 2.5 hours for the 4 KW and 8 hours for the 10 KW.

Do your conversion systems have a battery management system (BMS)?
Yes, the lithium iron phosphate systems include a BMS.

Where is the conversion system installed in the vehicle?
The conversion system is installed underneath the rear cargo deck of the Prius and does not infringe on the rear cargo area.

Can I access the spare tire?
The 4 KW system allows access to the spare tire. The 10 KW system is larger and covers the spare tire well. With the 10 KW system, there is no access to the spare tire in its original location.

How do I buy a conversion system?
Call or email us.

I do not live near San Francisco, can I still buy a conversion system?
Yes. We can send a Plug-In Supply team to your residence to install the conversion system in your vehicle. Or, you can have it installed by one of our dealers.

How many vehicles have been converted using Plug-In Supply systems?
There are currently 200+ vehicles using Plug-In Supply conversion systems.

I drive long distances almost exclusively on the highway, is there a benefit to having a plug-in conversion?
Yes. Having the extra battery pack will contribute more electricity via the Automatic EVTM feature, increasing your gas mileage until the auxiliary battery is depleted. When the auxiliary pack is empty the car reverts to being a stock hybrid.

How long does the conversion process take?
The conversion process takes 1 day to complete.

What do all these acronyms mean?

  • EV: Electric Vehicle
  • HEV: Hybrid Electric Vehicle
  • PHEV: Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicle
  • LiFePO4: Lithium Iron Phosphate
  • kW-hr: Kilowatt-Hour

How can I ask a question that is not answered here?
Email us and we will answer your question.