As Toyota recently reported its dominance in the hybrid vehicle segment worldwide, with some 10 million units sold since it first rolled out such vehicles around 20 years ago, one would think that Toyota would sit back and enjoy its success. Well, we’re talking about Toyota here, which means it will always be pushing the boundaries and improving on what it has started. And so it has, seen in its latest offering, the Toyota Prius Plug-in Hybrid Vehicle.
First seen in 2012, the latest iteration of the Prius PHV takes its cue from the newest, fourth-generation Toyota Prius and adds a few cutting-edge technologies to make it a truly all-around environment-friendly offering.
At the heart of the new Toyota Prius PHV is the latest-generation large-capacity lithium ion battery, and an electric motor and generator. This makes for increased electric vehicle driving range of up to 68.2kms, higher EV speeds of 135kph, and improved acceleration. The last bit is achieved with the help of the electric motor and generator working together during EV mode. All these equate to better daily usability, reduced fuel usage and emissions, and more fun behind the wheel.
And once the battery is depleted, the car can still be driven in hybrid mode. This makes for an extended environment-friendly driving experience.
The other part of the innovative PHV system is the enhanced charging options available to the Prius. Rather than using complicated wiring, the new PHV can be charged using a standard 100V outlet. Faster charging times can be achieved with 220V sockets. And the Toyota PHV is the world’s first vehicle that can be charged using a solar charger. This can be done while the vehicle is parked in direct sunlight, making around 6.1kms of driving range in pure electric or hybrid modes.
The Toyota Prius PHV isn’t just a green vehicle; it is a smart connected vehicle that’s safe as well. It features goodies like an 11.6-inch touchscreen for the T-Connect SD navigation and connectivity systems. This allows drivers to fully control infotainment, navigation, and various vehicle functions. The car also has a smartphone app that lets owners remotely monitor and manipulate charging, airconditioning, and the like.
As for safety, the Prius PHV naturally comes with Toyota Safety Sense-P, which is the latest suite of collision avoidance gear. This essentially makes the car a safe and green machine.
And who can ignore the look of the latest generation Prius? The front end, for instance, is low and sleek, just like a sportscar. The headlights feature adaptive lighting technology that adjusts its beam to avoid blinding oncoming traffic. And the rear hatch, which is made of lightweight carbon fiber reinforced plastic, features a cool double bubble glass design.
The new Toyota Prius PHV is now available at all Toyota dealerships throughout Japan.
