Introduction

ALWAYS ASSUME THE VEHICLE IS POWERED UP



FOREWORD
Hybrid emergency response procedures are similar to those for a traditional gasoline powered vehicle with the exception of the high voltage electrical system.

The Hybrid vehicle uses a conventional gasoline engine in addition to an electric motor to power the vehicle. The energy used to power the vehicle comes from gasoline - used in the internal combustion engine and electricity used in the electric motor. The energy used to power the vehicle must be stored:

- Gasoline is stored in a traditional fuel tank like other vehicles.

- Electricity is stored in a high voltage battery pack

The combination of a gasoline engine and electric drive provides for improved performance (V6 performance with a 4 cylinder engine and electric motor), reduced emissions and most importantly - improved fuel economy. The system is self contained (a generator recharges the battery during braking and cruising) so you never have to plug a hybrid in to recharge the batteries.

The information in this guide will allow you to respond to Hybrid vehicles as safely as you do with conventional vehicles.

The Hybrid has been designed with many features for your protection. These features should help provide you with safe access to the vehicle under various conditions. However whenever you approach a high voltage vehicle in a Fire, Rescue or Recovery situation, you must always follow one cardinal rule.

ALWAYS ASSUME THE VEHICLE IS POWERED UP