The vitality storage system inside the 2006 Toyota Prius, important for its hybrid performance, comprised a nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) battery pack. This battery supplied {the electrical} energy wanted to help the gasoline engine, enabling gas effectivity and decreased emissions. Its operational voltage and capability have been particularly engineered to enhance the car’s hybrid drivetrain system.
This element was essential for the Prius’s preliminary success, providing a stability between efficiency, longevity, and value. Its introduction marked a major step within the growth of hybrid car expertise, showcasing the potential for improved gas economic system and environmentally acutely aware transportation. The reliability of the system contributed closely to the car’s status for long-term dependability and decreased working prices, particularly in city environments.
The next sections will discover the everyday lifespan of this battery kind, potential substitute choices, and components that may affect its total efficiency and upkeep necessities.
1. NiMH Composition
The nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) composition of the 2006 Toyota Prius’s battery is a basic component figuring out its efficiency, longevity, and environmental affect. The number of this chemistry over options considerably influenced the car’s market viability and its contribution to hybrid car expertise on the time.
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Electrode Supplies
The optimistic electrode usually makes use of nickel hydroxide (Ni(OH)2), whereas the adverse electrode consists of a metallic alloy able to absorbing and releasing hydrogen. This materials choice dictates the battery’s vitality density and its capability to face up to cost and discharge cycles, impacting the 2006 Prius’s acceleration and gas economic system traits.
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Electrolyte Composition
The electrolyte, often an alkaline answer like potassium hydroxide (KOH), facilitates the ion transport between the electrodes. Its composition immediately impacts the inner resistance of the battery and its working temperature vary. Optimum electrolyte composition is essential for sustaining the battery’s efficiency in various climates, a key consideration for the widespread adoption of the 2006 Prius.
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Cell Construction and Design
The association of particular person cells inside the battery pack, their connections, and the thermal administration system are crucial elements of the NiMH composition. A well-designed construction ensures uniform temperature distribution throughout the cells, stopping localized overheating and lengthening the battery’s lifespan. This facet immediately pertains to the 2006 Prius’s reliability and long-term efficiency.
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Materials Purity and Manufacturing Processes
The purity of the NiMH supplies and the precision of the manufacturing processes play an important function within the battery’s total efficiency and sturdiness. Impurities can result in accelerated degradation and decreased capability. Stringent high quality management throughout manufacturing is important for making certain constant efficiency throughout all 2006 Prius battery packs.
In abstract, the NiMH composition of the 2006 Toyota Prius’s battery is just not merely a matter of selecting chemical components; it is a advanced interaction of supplies, design, and manufacturing processes that immediately affect its efficiency, lifespan, and reliability, options that outlined the car’s place within the early hybrid market.
2. 201.6 Volts
The voltage ranking of 201.6 Volts is a crucial specification for the vitality storage system inside the 2006 Toyota Prius. This worth represents the nominal voltage of your complete battery pack, a configuration of a number of nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) cells related in sequence. The design alternative of 201.6 Volts immediately influences the car’s efficiency traits, together with acceleration, regenerative braking effectivity, and total gas economic system. Deviations from this voltage, both on account of cell degradation or system malfunction, can set off diagnostic codes and affect the car’s hybrid performance. The number of this voltage degree was an engineering choice balancing energy supply necessities and security concerns inside the hybrid system.
The 201.6 Volt battery pack operates in tandem with the car’s energy management unit (PCU), which manages the stream {of electrical} vitality between the battery, the electrical motor-generators, and the gasoline engine. This voltage degree permits for environment friendly energy switch and allows the electrical motor-generators to help the gasoline engine throughout acceleration and seize vitality throughout deceleration by way of regenerative braking. A sensible instance is observing the car’s conduct throughout hill ascent; the battery offers supplemental energy, stopping the gasoline engine from working at peak load and sustaining environment friendly gas consumption. Moreover, the voltage degree is essential for the effectiveness of the regenerative braking system, which recovers kinetic vitality and converts it again into electrical vitality to recharge the battery.
Sustaining the right voltage vary is important for the longevity and optimum efficiency. Gradual degradation of particular person cells inside the pack can result in imbalances and a discount in total voltage. Monitoring voltage ranges and addressing any discrepancies is a key facet of preventative upkeep. Understanding the importance of the 201.6 Volt specification offers perception into the operational parameters and informs selections relating to upkeep and potential substitute of the vitality storage system, contributing to the sustained effectivity and reliability of the 2006 Toyota Prius.
3. Regenerative braking
Regenerative braking is a basic function of the 2006 Toyota Prius’s hybrid system, immediately impacting the effectivity and longevity of its vitality storage system. It is an vitality restoration mechanism that makes use of the car’s electrical motor-generators to transform kinetic vitality into electrical vitality throughout deceleration, which is then saved within the high-voltage battery.
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Vitality Conversion Course of
Throughout deceleration, the electrical motor-generators operate as mills, creating resistance that slows the car. This course of converts the kinetic vitality, which might in any other case be misplaced as warmth by way of friction brakes, into electrical vitality. The ensuing electrical energy is then directed to the battery to replenish its cost. An on a regular basis instance is when the motive force eases off the accelerator; the car slows down and the vitality goes again to the battery.
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Affect on Battery Lifespan
The effectiveness of regenerative braking immediately impacts the charging cycles of the hybrid battery. By recovering vitality that might in any other case be wasted, the system reduces the demand on the gasoline engine to cost the battery, resulting in fewer discharge-charge cycles and probably extending the battery’s lifespan. Frequent use of regenerative braking in city driving situations is handiest.
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Integration with Conventional Braking System
The 2006 Prius employs a blended braking system that mixes regenerative braking with typical friction brakes. The system prioritizes regenerative braking each time doable, however seamlessly transitions to friction brakes when extra stopping energy is required, reminiscent of throughout emergency braking. This integration ensures optimum vitality restoration whereas sustaining protected and dependable braking efficiency.
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Limitations and Effectivity Elements
The effectivity of regenerative braking is influenced by a number of components, together with the battery’s state of cost and the car’s velocity. The system could also be much less efficient when the battery is almost totally charged, as there may be restricted capability to retailer extra vitality. Moreover, regenerative braking is much less efficient at very low speeds. The system’s programming manages these limitations to optimize vitality restoration with out compromising braking efficiency.
Regenerative braking within the 2006 Toyota Prius not solely contributes to improved gas effectivity by lowering reliance on the gasoline engine, however it additionally performs a vital function in extending the lifespan of the hybrid battery by optimizing charging cycles. This interaction exemplifies the built-in design of the Prius’s hybrid powertrain and highlights the significance of regenerative braking as a key expertise for sustainable transportation.
4. 8-10 years common
The “8-10 years common” timeframe represents the everyday lifespan expectancy for the high-voltage battery pack inside a 2006 Toyota Prius below regular working situations. This metric is a major consideration for car house owners, influencing resale worth, upkeep budgeting, and long-term possession prices. The 8-10 yr common is immediately tied to the degradation fee of the nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) cells that represent the battery. A number of components contribute to this degradation, together with working temperature, charge-discharge cycles, and total utilization patterns. For example, a Prius constantly pushed in excessive warmth or chilly might expertise accelerated battery degradation in comparison with a car operated in additional temperate climates. The typical lifespan serves as a benchmark in opposition to which particular person battery efficiency might be assessed, offering a common indication of remaining operational life.
Cases the place the “8-10 years common” lifespan is exceeded or falls brief are widespread. Elements reminiscent of constant use of regenerative braking, which reduces the pressure on the battery by capturing and reusing vitality, can lengthen the battery’s life past the common. Conversely, neglecting preventative upkeep, reminiscent of making certain correct cooling fan operation, or subjecting the battery to extended durations of deep discharge can scale back its lifespan. The mileage on the automobile additionally contributes to the degradation of the battery. Additionally battery substitute turns into crucial when the automobile has been on the highway for 150000 miles or extra.
In the end, understanding the “8-10 years common” lifespan for the 2006 Toyota Prius battery pack allows knowledgeable decision-making relating to car upkeep and potential battery substitute. Whereas the common offers a helpful guideline, particular person battery efficiency can differ significantly primarily based on operational components. Cautious monitoring of battery efficiency, adherence to really useful upkeep schedules, and consciousness of driving situations can contribute to maximizing the lifespan and total worth of the hybrid system. For instance, promoting the automobile earlier than the battery is anticipated to fail, is one possibility that the proprietor can take.
5. Capability discount
Capability discount within the 2006 Toyota Prius hybrid battery refers back to the gradual lower within the battery’s capability to retailer and ship electrical vitality over time. That is an inherent attribute of nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) batteries and a major indicator of its remaining helpful life. Because the battery ages, its inside resistance will increase, and its capability to simply accept and launch cost diminishes, resulting in a noticeable discount within the car’s hybrid efficiency. For instance, a Prius with vital capability discount might exhibit decreased acceleration, decreased gas economic system, and extra frequent activation of the gasoline engine to compensate for the battery’s diminished output. The extent of capability discount is influenced by components reminiscent of working temperature, utilization patterns, and the variety of charge-discharge cycles. Understanding capability discount is essential for assessing the well being and remaining lifespan of the battery.
The sensible significance of understanding capability discount lies in its affect on car efficiency and upkeep selections. A car exhibiting signs of decreased battery capability might require extra frequent servicing or, finally, battery substitute. Diagnostic instruments might be employed to measure the battery’s capability and determine particular person cell imbalances inside the pack. Addressing capability discount proactively, reminiscent of by way of cell reconditioning or module substitute, can assist lengthen the battery’s lifespan and keep optimum hybrid performance. In real-world situations, a technician utilizing specialised gear can measure every cell’s voltage and inside resistance. Deviations from the imply can point out particular cells which can be disproportionately contributing to total capability discount, permitting focused intervention.
Capability discount is an inevitable facet of the 2006 Toyota Prius hybrid battery’s lifecycle. Its results are multifaceted, impacting car efficiency, gas effectivity, and the necessity for potential substitute. Whereas varied components affect the speed of capability discount, proactive monitoring and upkeep can assist mitigate its affect and lengthen the battery’s usable lifespan. Understanding this phenomenon permits house owners to make knowledgeable selections about upkeep, repairs, and whether or not a battery substitute is important, making certain the continued performance of the hybrid system.
6. Refurbished choices
Refurbished choices for the 2006 Toyota Prius hybrid battery characterize a viable various to buying a brand new battery pack. These choices contain the restoration and reconditioning of used batteries, providing a probably more cost effective answer for car house owners going through battery failure.
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Cell Reconditioning and Balancing
One core facet of refurbished choices is cell reconditioning. Particular person cells inside the battery pack are examined, and people exhibiting low efficiency are both reconditioned to revive their capability or changed with cells of comparable specs. Cell balancing ensures all cells function at comparable voltage ranges, optimizing efficiency and longevity of your complete pack. This course of makes an attempt to revive the battery’s capability, bringing it nearer to its unique specs. For instance, a refurbished pack may need cells changed with others from packs with much less mileage.
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Module Alternative Methods
Refurbishing usually entails changing complete modules inside the battery pack. This strategy is usually employed when a number of cells inside a module have failed or exhibit vital capability degradation. Changing your complete module offers a extra dependable answer in comparison with individually changing failing cells, because it minimizes the danger of future failures inside that module. For example, if one part of the battery meeting is discovered to have degradation past restore or restoration, it’s merely changed with newer salvaged or reconditioned elements to enhance the efficiency of the battery.
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Guarantee and High quality Management Measures
Respected suppliers of refurbished choices usually provide a guaranty on their merchandise. This guarantee offers assurance to the client relating to the efficiency and reliability of the refurbished battery pack. High quality management measures, reminiscent of rigorous testing and inspection, are applied to make sure the refurbished battery meets acceptable efficiency requirements. A vendor who provides a guaranty of at the least one yr could also be a higher-quality provider, as they need to belief their merchandise’ capability to operate usually for that timeframe.
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Price Issues and Environmental Affect
Refurbished choices usually provide a decrease price in comparison with buying a brand-new hybrid battery. This price distinction could be a vital issue for car house owners in search of a cost-effective answer. Moreover, choosing a refurbished battery contributes to environmental sustainability by lowering digital waste and selling the reuse of precious supplies. For instance, the core a part of the used battery is retained, saving on the vitality prices required to smelt new supplies.
In conclusion, refurbished choices for the 2006 Toyota Prius hybrid battery current a sensible various for house owners trying to deal with battery failure with out incurring the expense of a brand new battery. Cell reconditioning and balancing, module substitute methods, guarantee and high quality management measures, and value and environmental concerns all contribute to the viability of refurbished batteries as a sustainable and cost-effective answer. These choices lengthen the lifespan of the 2006 Prius by preserving working prices low.
7. Set up prices
The prices related to putting in a substitute vitality storage system in a 2006 Toyota Prius characterize a major issue within the total expense of sustaining and repairing this hybrid car. These prices are influenced by a number of variables, together with the supply of the substitute battery, the labor charges within the geographic location, and the complexity of the set up course of itself.
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Supply of the Battery
The selection between a brand new, refurbished, or used battery immediately impacts set up prices. New batteries usually command a better value, however might embody set up as a part of the acquisition. Refurbished or used batteries may be inexpensive upfront, however the set up might not be included, and the installer might cost a better fee on account of potential uncertainties related to used elements. Some salvage yards provide elimination and set up providers that may be considerably cheaper. Nevertheless, there may be additionally a better danger for decrease high quality and unreliability.
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Labor Charges and Technician Experience
Labor prices differ significantly primarily based on geographic location and the particular experience of the technician. Hybrid car battery set up requires specialised data and gear to make sure correct dealing with and connection of the high-voltage elements. Dealerships and specialised hybrid restore outlets usually cost greater labor charges in comparison with common automotive restore outlets, however possess the mandatory coaching and expertise to carry out the set up safely and appropriately. Subsequently, it’s smart to verify the ability and reliability of the technician.
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Complexity of the Set up Course of
The set up course of entails disconnecting the present battery, rigorously eradicating it from the car, and putting in the substitute. This course of requires adherence to security protocols to forestall electrical shock and injury to the car’s electrical system. Some installations might contain extra steps, reminiscent of cleansing corroded terminals or inspecting associated elements for put on and tear. The complexity of the set up can affect the period of time required, which in flip impacts labor prices. The set up additionally takes time, so the ultimate price will enhance if it takes longer.
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Extra Diagnostic and Programming Necessities
Following the bodily set up, diagnostic testing and programming could also be required to make sure correct communication between the brand new battery and the car’s management techniques. Some battery replacements necessitate a software program replace or reset to precisely replicate the battery’s state of cost and efficiency traits. These extra steps can add to the general set up prices, notably if specialised diagnostic gear is required. Correct configuration can assure the protected and anticipated efficiency of the battery.
In abstract, “set up prices” for a 2006 Toyota Prius hybrid battery are a multifaceted consideration encompassing battery supply, labor charges, set up complexity, and diagnostic necessities. Understanding these elements allows car house owners to make knowledgeable selections relating to battery substitute, balancing cost-effectiveness with the necessity for dependable and protected set up procedures. Typically, the bottom value can result in extra bills, so it’s higher to select a alternative that blends reliability with low price.
8. Temperature sensitivity
Temperature sensitivity is a crucial issue affecting the efficiency and longevity of the nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) vitality storage system within the 2006 Toyota Prius. Working exterior the optimum temperature vary can speed up degradation, scale back capability, and finally shorten the battery’s lifespan. Understanding this sensitivity is essential for house owners to maximise battery efficiency and decrease potential points.
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Affect on Chemical Reactions
The inner chemical reactions inside the NiMH cells are immediately influenced by temperature. Elevated temperatures speed up these reactions, resulting in elevated corrosion and degradation of the electrode supplies. Conversely, low temperatures scale back the response charges, lowering the battery’s energy output and cost acceptance. A 2006 Prius constantly operated in extraordinarily sizzling climates, such because the desert Southwest, will seemingly expertise accelerated capability loss in comparison with one in a temperate local weather. These results result in diminished battery lifespan.
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Results on Inner Resistance
Temperature impacts the inner resistance of the battery. Low temperatures enhance inside resistance, lowering the quantity of present that may be delivered. Excessive temperatures additionally have a tendency to extend inside resistance, however by way of completely different mechanisms, additionally limiting the battery’s capabilities. Excessive inside resistance signifies that it may possibly’t retailer as a lot cost in every battery. Subsequently, temperature-related adjustments will affect battery capability.
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Cooling System Performance
The 2006 Prius is provided with a cooling system designed to take care of the battery inside a suitable temperature vary. This method usually consists of a fan and ductwork that circulates air throughout the battery pack. Correct functioning of this cooling system is important for mitigating the consequences of temperature extremes. A clogged or malfunctioning cooling fan can result in overheating and accelerated battery degradation. For instance, the cooling system may very well be affected by the presence of pets, particles or mould.
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Optimum Working Vary
The NiMH battery within the 2006 Prius is designed to function most effectively inside a particular temperature vary, usually between 60F and 90F (15C and 32C). Working exterior this vary, both constantly above or under, will scale back its efficiency and shorten its lifespan. Monitoring the battery’s temperature and taking steps to mitigate temperature extremes, reminiscent of parking in shaded areas or making certain correct cooling system upkeep, can assist optimize battery efficiency. Subsequently, you will need to hold the working vary inside set limits.
In abstract, temperature sensitivity considerably impacts the efficiency and longevity of the 2006 Toyota Prius vitality storage system. Understanding this sensitivity and taking acceptable measures to take care of the battery inside its optimum temperature vary are essential for maximizing its lifespan and making certain continued environment friendly operation of the hybrid car.
Regularly Requested Questions
The next addresses widespread inquiries in regards to the high-voltage battery within the 2006 Toyota Prius, offering insights into its traits, efficiency, and upkeep.
Query 1: What’s the anticipated service lifetime of the vitality storage system in a 2006 Toyota Prius?
Below typical working situations, the 2006 Toyota Prius vitality storage system, consisting of nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) battery cells, might be anticipated to operate successfully for about 8 to 10 years. Nevertheless, varied components, together with local weather, driving habits, and upkeep practices, can affect this lifespan, resulting in deviations from this common.
Query 2: How can the efficiency of the vitality storage system be assessed?
Efficiency might be assessed by way of statement of gas economic system, acceleration, and the frequency with which the gasoline engine engages. Diagnostic instruments can be utilized to measure voltage ranges, inside resistance, and capability of particular person cells inside the battery pack, offering a extra detailed analysis of the system’s well being.
Query 3: What components contribute to the degradation of the 2006 Toyota Prius’s vitality storage system?
Degradation is influenced by components reminiscent of extended publicity to excessive temperatures, frequent deep discharge cycles, and imbalances in particular person cell voltage. Correct upkeep, together with making certain sufficient cooling fan operation, can mitigate these results and lengthen the battery’s lifespan.
Query 4: Are there options to buying a brand new vitality storage system?
Refurbished or reconditioned vitality storage techniques characterize a viable various to buying a brand new unit. These choices usually contain the substitute of faulty cells or modules and may provide a more cost effective answer. Nevertheless, the standard and guarantee supplied by the reconditioning vendor needs to be rigorously evaluated.
Query 5: What security precautions needs to be noticed when dealing with or changing the high-voltage battery?
Dealing with or changing the high-voltage battery requires specialised data and adherence to strict security protocols. The system operates at a probably harmful voltage degree, and improper dealing with can lead to electrical shock or injury to the car. It is suggested that these procedures be carried out by certified technicians with expertise in hybrid car techniques.
Query 6: How does regenerative braking contribute to the lifespan of the vitality storage system?
Regenerative braking captures kinetic vitality throughout deceleration and converts it into electrical vitality, which is then used to recharge the high-voltage battery. This course of reduces the demand on the gasoline engine and can assist lengthen the lifespan of the battery by lowering the frequency of discharge-charge cycles.
Understanding these often requested questions can help 2006 Toyota Prius house owners in making knowledgeable selections relating to the upkeep and potential substitute of their high-voltage batteries, making certain continued environment friendly operation of their hybrid autos.
The next part will deal with preventative upkeep methods to maximise the lifespan of the hybrid battery within the 2006 Prius.
Optimizing the ’06 Toyota Prius Hybrid Battery’ Lifespan
Adopting particular upkeep and operational methods can considerably affect the longevity and efficiency of the vitality storage system in a 2006 Toyota Prius. The next suggestions are designed to advertise optimum battery well being.
Tip 1: Guarantee Correct Cooling System Performance:
Often examine and clear the battery cooling fan and air vents situated close to the rear passenger seat. Mud and particles accumulation can impede airflow, resulting in elevated battery temperatures. A clear cooling system facilitates environment friendly warmth dissipation, lowering the danger of thermal degradation.
Tip 2: Average Driving Habits:
Keep away from extended durations of aggressive acceleration and deceleration. Gradual acceleration and constant use of regenerative braking assist keep optimum battery cost ranges and decrease stress on particular person cells.
Tip 3: Handle Charging and Discharging:
Reduce cases of deep discharge, the place the battery is depleted to very low ranges. Common partial discharge cycles are preferable to rare deep discharges, as they scale back stress on the battery’s chemical elements.
Tip 4: Monitor Battery Efficiency:
Take note of any adjustments in gas economic system, acceleration efficiency, or the frequency of gasoline engine engagement. These might be indicators of battery degradation. Take into account periodic diagnostic testing to evaluate battery well being and determine potential points early.
Tip 5: Storage parking throughout Temperature Extremes:
When sensible, retailer the car in a storage or shaded space during times of maximum warmth or chilly. Limiting publicity to temperature extremes reduces stress on the battery and helps keep its optimum working vary.
Tip 6: Handle Diagnostic Codes Promptly:
If the car shows any diagnostic codes associated to the hybrid system or battery, search skilled prognosis and restore instantly. Addressing points promptly can stop additional injury and probably lengthen the battery’s lifespan.
Persistently making use of the following pointers can contribute considerably to maximizing the lifespan and efficiency of the 2006 Toyota Prius vitality storage system. Prioritizing preventative upkeep and adopting accountable driving habits will shield the “06 toyota prius hybrid battery”.
The subsequent part will summarize the data coated on this article, offering a complete overview of the 2006 Toyota Prius hybrid battery.
06 toyota prius hybrid battery
This text has explored the numerous elements of the vitality storage system within the 2006 Toyota Prius, encompassing its NiMH composition, voltage traits, regenerative braking performance, typical lifespan, degradation patterns, refurbished choices, set up prices, and temperature sensitivity. Every component performs a vital function within the total efficiency and longevity of the autos hybrid system.
The long-term viability of the 2006 Toyota Prius hinges on the cautious upkeep and knowledgeable administration of its “06 toyota prius hybrid battery”. Homeowners ought to prioritize preventative measures, heed efficiency indicators, and be ready to think about substitute or refurbishment choices when vital, making certain continued environment friendly and dependable operation of this pioneering hybrid car.