Real drive truth test of the Toyota Yaris Hybrid 2020 and energy analysis comparison with the 2017 model

This paper presents the performance analysis of a latest-generation hybrid vehicle (Toyota Yaris 2020) with a testing campaign in real road conditions and a comparison with the previous model (Toyota Yaris 2017). The study was conducted by applying the Real Drive Truth Test protocol, developed by the research group, validated and spread to other full hybrid vehicles: Toyota Prius IV (2016) and Toyota Yaris 2017 (2017). In the case of the 2020 tests, the co-presence on board— deemed unsafe in the usual ways given the ongoing pandemic—was achieved through precise and sophisticated remote control. An on-board diagnostic computer, video transmission and recording equipment guarantee the virtual co-presence of a technical control room and a driver. Thus, several engineers can follow and monitor each vehicle via a 4G modem (installed in each vehicle), analysing data, route and driver behaviour in real-time, and therefore even in the presence of a single occupant in the car under test. The utmost attention has also been paid to adopting anti-COVID behaviours and safety standards: limited personal interactions, reduced co-presence in shared rooms (especially in the control room), vehicle sanitising between different drivers, computers and technicians and video technicians working once at a time. The comparison between the two subsequent vehicle models shows a significant improvement in the performance of the new generation Yaris, both in terms of operation in ZEV (zero-emission vehicle) mode (+15.3%) and in terms of consumption (−35.1%) and overall efficiency of the hybrid powertrain (+8.2%).