Technology Conflict- Why Hybrids or EV's and Newer Traffic Controls don't mix.

Disclaimer: I'll start out by saying that as an automotive enthusiast, I like to extract maximum performance from my vehicle and enjoy the thrill of acceleration, the g-forces in a nicely executed corner, along with the satisfaction of getting to my destination as quickly as possible (albeit safely).

Many of you, I would bet, have been frustrated while behind a "green" vehicle with regenerative braking- In order to extract maximum mileage/gallon, these vehicles recapture energy while braking. I haven't studied the physics, so I'm not sure whether riding your brake to come to a stop gradually vs. stopping hard makes any difference in energy reclaimed, but it's obvious that these drivers are into the "gentile" thing. In a regular car, slowing your progress to avoid stopping, while waiting for a light to turn green saves energy too, but this habit is obviously more common now that all these hybrids and EV's are around us.

Now for the "conflict". Many newer traffic controls are not on timers, but rely on sensors beneath the pavement, or tiny camera like sensors mounted near the actual traffic light. In order to improve traffic flow at some intersections, these sensors will only change the light when a vehicle is at the intersection. Now what happens if you are not the lead vehicle? We are now trying to get to the intersection to change the light from red to green, while the Prius in front of you is doing 15mph and g-r-a-d-u-a-l-l-y decelerating 200-300 yards away, waiting for the light to change which will not happen until it reaches the intersection.

Anyone else have any thoughts on this?

vdiv - 5/17/2012 2:10:30 PM

+1 Boost

Oh, then you'd be really irked when after coasting for 300 yards the Prius in front of you stops 2-3 car-lengths behind the intersection line and doesn't even trigger the inductive sensor for the stop light. It doesn't matter what kind of car people drive, they always find ways to behave as inconsiderate bastids. For your own sanity and the safety of everyone find some cool music, leave early, and just chill while driving.