Geofence Function Boosts Toyota's New C-HR Electric Drive City Range

Toyota adds a geofencing capability to its European specification Toyota C-HR Plug-in Hybrid 220 urban-focused SUV to extend its all-electric city driving range.

For downtown driving, the new model uses machine-learning software to maximize zero-tailpipe emission driving in Europe’s narrow and congested city streets.

Toyota’s Predictive Efficient Drive system kicks in when the car is driven in urban areas and claims to achieve electric-only range of between 60 and 66 miles (97 and 106 km) on the WLTP rating.

The system uses live data and information from previous trips made in the vehicle to automatically adjust its powertrain system to boost electric efficiency and range.

It includes a new geofencing function to help predict the journey ahead. This system claims to be able to analyze road and traffic conditions via cloud navigation and combine it with ongoing learning of the driver’s regular routes and driving style.

It automatically switches the power delivery between hybrid and electric modes to boost electric range in urban environments. If the destination requires travel through a clean-air BEV-mandatory zone, the geofencing system ensures sufficient charge to complete the trip in electric mode.

Toyota says its new Predictive Efficient Drive system also works to improve regenerated energy from braking. Again using information from previous journeys, the navigation system data identifies regular locations for deceleration and automatically increases engine braking force to enhance regenerative recovery. When highways or uphill sections are approaching, the system selects hybrid mode to charge the battery for the anticipated high demand.