The automobile in question | The Press

Our collaborator answers questions from readers

Eric LeFrancois
special cooperation

When the engine shuts down

Why do the engines of new vehicles stop when stationary? This function cannot be deactivated… I was told that it was for the environment: however, restarting a car requires more energy. I don’t understand this engine stop…

Suzanne B.

Don’t worry, you’re not the only one who hates this device. The Americans, especially, curse it and implore the manufacturers to withdraw it. However, this device leads to a reduction in fuel consumption and polluting emissions. In fact, this automatic cut-off device when stationary can reduce a vehicle’s fuel consumption by up to 8% under certain road conditions, according to the latest study by the Society of Automotive Engineering (SAE). Most vehicles allow this feature to be disabled, but you will need to disable it each time you drive.

A request from New Brunswick

We plan to buy an electric vehicle soon. We own a 2017 Lexus NX 200 with 90,000 km on the odometer. Our project is to install solar panels on our new residence and take advantage of the “Net metering” offered by our electricity supplier. We also anticipate that the batteries of this new electric car will become our energy source in the event of a power grid failure, a V2H car. Our criteria are as follows: a range of approximately 500 km, adequate charging capacity (30-45 minutes), all-wheel drive and V2H technology, same size as our current vehicle and eligibility for government programs. Is it possible ? According to my research, this car does not yet exist on the market. But do you think it could happen in the next three or four years? We are patient and will know how to wait.

Eloi D.

No one will blame you for not knowing what you are looking for. Your research is good, no vehicle on the market meets all of your criteria. Some, however, are on the verge of bringing them together. Volkswagen management, for example, has announced that the 2023 ID.4 will adopt V2H technology (this allows you to power your residence with your vehicle). In addition, the South Korean group Hyundai (Ioniq 5, Kia EV6, Genesis GV60) promises additional features for its electrified platform (code name E-GMP) in the near future. Tests are currently being carried out with V2H technology in Germany and others with V2G (solar energy this time) in the Netherlands.

nobody likes the answer

My son and his wife are expecting a third child. They must therefore obtain a used car (no SUV!) that can accommodate three child seats. Their budget is rather limited, but reliability and low fuel consumption are the first criteria.

Danielle L.

No SUV, so much the better, since the vehicle best suited to your family’s needs is: the van. Your son and his spouse won’t like this answer (in my day, I didn’t like it either), but it’s the perfect vehicle with easy access (sliding doors), a completely and easily modular interior. To meet the requested criteria, we suggest that you direct your research towards the Toyota Sienna and Honda Odyssey.

Homework to do

We are looking for a vehicle to tow a 7000 lb trailer, the equivalent of three months a year. Currently, the vehicle we are interested in is the new 2022 Tundra. However, what makes me hesitate is the fact that it is an all-new engine/transmission. Have you come across any comments that this might not be the best choice for my needs? Especially when traveling in mountainous terrain.

Marc-Andre O.

A good choice, the Tundra, especially in its hybrid version, which can tow 12,000 lbs. That should be enough. That said, why bother with such a vehicle for three months a year? There are currently specialized companies in Quebec that offer short and medium term rentals of pickup trucks. The planet and your finances will be better off for it.