Toyota Motor Corporation has announced the launch of all-new Prius Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV) models in Japan, starting from March 15th. The new Prius is designed under the “Hybrid Reborn” concept, incorporating a unique design that enhances the driving experience, while maintaining its position as an environmentally friendly car. Toyota had launched the Prius HEV models earlier this year, and the models have already been receiving an excellent response from the customers.
Features of Prius PHEV
The new Prius PHEV models, available as the Z grade, come with the latest plug-in hybrid system, which includes a compact, high-capacity drive battery, high-output drive motor, and high-efficiency gasoline engine. The PHEV external power supply system of the car enables it to supply power in various scenarios. The PHEV can cover the majority of daily driving, such as commuting and shopping, using only the electric power from the charged battery. The PHEV also offers outstanding quietness and brisk motor-based driving performance like a battery electric vehicle (BEV). Additionally, on longer drives like trips, the engine supplements battery power and ensures the cruising range required for traveling long distances comfortably. The new Prius PHEV offers dynamic performance with a maximum system output of 164 kW (223 PS) of power. The car has a great fuel efficiency of 26.0 km/L1 with 19-inch tires and 30.1 km/L1 with 17-inch tires*2.
Plug-In Hybrid System and Vehicle Outline
The new Prius PHEV models are based on the latest fifth-generation hybrid system, which combines a compact, high-capacity drive battery and high-output drive motor in Toyota’s first use of its newly developed 2.0-liter Plug-in Hybrid System. This model achieves acceleration of 0-100 km/h in 6.7 seconds, which is double that of the previous model. The BEV driving distance can cover the majority of daily driving using only the electric power from the battery.
Power Generation and Supply
One of the unique features of the PHEV model is the HEV external power supply mode, which can use the car as a power supply during blackouts, disasters, and other emergencies. The new Prius PHEV comes with both a BEV external power supply mode and an HEV external power supply mode, with the latter using the engine to supply electricity once the remaining power falls to a set level. The vehicle has a full tank of gas and a fully charged battery, and this system can provide enough electricity for about five days of use. The new Prius PHEV is equipped with a second-generation solar charging system that efficiently converts solar energy into electricity, providing enough power to drive up to 1,250 km per year in BEV mode.
Toyota is working on the all-round development of electric vehicles, including PHEVs, and hydrogen engines to achieve carbon neutrality and provide a range of options to customers worldwide. The new Prius PHEV is a high-performance version that delivers both enjoyable driving and environmental performance, and Toyota aims to continue to offer customers cars that they will cherish as their car of choice for generations to come.
