"JimK6VRY" wrote in message
ups.com...
I'm picking up my new Prius this week and am curious about running
radios in the car. The techs at the dealer stare at me blankly when I
bring it up. I plan to operate an Icom IC-706 on HF and 2m. My
assumption is that the radio would run off the small 12v battery used
for accessories and engine starting. Since it's impossible to idle the
motor while standing still, the battry would seemingly run down pretty
quickly.

Any suggestion or comments?

I am aware of the car but have no practical experience, so here goes with a
few suggestions.

Could the small battery be 'swapped out' for a larger capacity one?
(Physical size/ charge available from alternator are the things to look at)

Is it possible to take a 12V 'tap' from the large batteries that power the
electric motors?

If none of the above the only option I can think of is a split charge
circuit and another (yes I know there's enough batteries in it already)
battery in the luggage space. (don't forget to make sure it's vented)

Hope this helps
73's & good luck! Brian