More Than Just Beauty
— Toyota Prius
As successor to the original Prius, which debuted
in 1997 as the world's first mass-produced gasoline-electric hybrid
vehicle and which has sold more than 120,000 units worldwide, the
new Prius was developed around the concept of Hybrid Synergy Drive,
which represents a sophisticated fusion of ecology and power.
It not only attains an extremely high fuel efficiency
of 35.5 kilometers per liter and ultra-low emissions, but also greatly
heightens the "fun to drive" quotient through the further
evolution of hybrid power. The new Prius also incorporates a high
level of universal design, as reflected in the car's operational
controls, as well as advanced functions, styling and packaging.
The all-new 2004 Prius will usher in a new era
for the automobile. And not just because it's a mid-size gas/electric
hybrid vehicle with room for five and ample cargo space. Or the
fact that it's loaded with cutting-edge technologies like Hybrid
Synergy Drive.®
The real reason is because, more than anything,
it's a solution. A solution to rising energy costs. An answer to
hazy skylines. A vehicle of change. So, you're probably asking,
"What's the catch?" Well, there is none — that's
the beauty of the Prius. You compromise nothing. So start realizing,
from driving performance
to interior amenities, you no longer have to make a sacrifice to
make a difference.
Toyota has been a pioneer in designing hybrid
vehicles that combine an internal-combustion engine and electric
motor for
over half a decade. With more than 100,000 current Toyota Hybrid
System (THS) vehicles on the road, Toyota's extensive experience
has been essential to the development of the new Hybrid Synergy
Drive.®
Hybrid Synergy Drive® seamlessly integrates
all aspects of Prius' hybrid system, from the proper mix of the
electric motor and gas engine for optimum performance and efficiency,
to the regeneration of electricity via Prius' unique braking system.
It also offers offers a smooth and responsive
hybrid driving experience with all the power of a conven-tional
car. The technology also enhances the electric-only capability that
the Prius has become famous for.
A new voltage converter between the battery and
the electric motor raises the operating voltage to 500V, almost
twice its predecessor's. The result is a more powerful and efficient
motor. In turn, this design allows for a more compact battery pack,
creating additional cargo space.
Engineers used real-world data to make the batteries
themselves more efficient and durable. As for Prius' gas engine,
the 16-valve VVT-i powerplant was refined to operate at a higher
rpm, increasing the system's net horsepower. All this, and Prius
still never needs to be plugged in for recharging.
The result seems paradoxical: a gas/ electric
hybrid drivetrain that is more powerful, yet also more fuel-efficient
and cleaner burning. But it's no riddle, it's simply part of what
separates the Prius from every other car on the road.
Prices:
• S-grade ¥2,150,000 • Sports-type ¥2,310,000
• G-grade ¥2,410,000 • Sports type touring selection
¥2,570,000 Available at all Toyota and Toyopet dealerships nationwide.
Text: KS • Photo: Courtesy—Toyota Motors
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