Hi All
One thing I have noticed is that even though the graphical display on both the dash display and the pop up navigation unit shows that the internal combustion motor is not generating energy, it still runs (as evidenced by the RPM monitor (in sports mode) if you are over 40km/hr. That being said, I do occasionally see it go off when coasting down hills but not often. So it sort of defeats the purpose of having a hybrid system if the petrol motor runs at about 1000rpm most of the time.

 

Perhaps it's running to generate heat, assuming you have the heater on?

 

The engine will not turn off over a certain speed. Around 40mph usually give or take depending on other factors and conditions. Don't worry let the car do its thing. You just worry about driving it =)

Also the engine will run as well if it needs to charge the hybrid battery or heat the coolant for the cabin. Also just because the turning it does not necessarily mean it's using fuel.

 

Toyota designed the eCVT system with planetary gears that operate in conjunction with the engine's rotation to simulate gear ratios from 0 MPH to around 114 MPH (which I believe is the top speed possible with the gear ratios available). At a certain speed, the engine turning is actually part of the transmission. It turns but doesn't actually get spark or any fuel/air injection.