How Toyota Prius Will Be Different From The Regular Hybrid Version?

MANILA:  Toyota Motors is ready to extend the Prius family with the addition of the all-new Toyota Prius with the most intelligent eco-technology and stand out style. The brand is linking the intelligent Eco-technology with the new model which indicates that the next-generation model might be a plug-in version. The Japanese automaker has teased the rear end image of the new Prius showing the dramatic horizontal taillamps to create some hype among the Prius fanatics before its revelation at New York Auto Show 2016. With the blacked out tail-light image shot, it can be stated that the new Toyota Prius will be slightly different from the regular Prius hybrid version retaining the overall profile due to aerodynamic elements.

The new plug-in model might sport enhanced aero-tuned rear end in the production version which not only make it stick out from the mainstreamed Prius but also reduce the drag and fuel consumption. Only a few months ago, the world has witnessed the 2016 Toyota Prius which is the first Toyota drive to ride on a new Toyota New global Architecture (TNGA) making it 60% more rigid with better handling and efficiency. Revealed in Las Vegas last year, this year model has been upgraded in terms of its hybrid driveline with a lithium ion battery in Japan and nickel-metal hydride batteries in other auto markets. Hybrid version model was revealed with the 1.8-litre petrol engine combined with the electric motor and the battery to give the maximum power of 134 hp at 5200 rpm.

Now to further extend the Prius line-up beyond the hybrid version, the Japanese automaker has come up with the Toyota's next mechanical marvel which might be a plug-in hybrid version of the 2016 Prius. This Prius PHEV is likely to have an electric drive range of more than 50 km with a mix of a much larger lithium-ion battery along with the latest hybrid's electric motor setup. Though the exact mechanical specifications hasn't been revealed yet, but the plug-in version will definitely have some gains over the regular hybrid version and we can expect a considerable dip in CO2 emissions with around 40g/km.

For the last few years, Philippine hybrid market has been very stagnant with such a pale sales in comparison with the impressive sales of Prius worldwide. Now it would be very intriguing to see what wonders will the Prius Plug-in do in the Philippines auto market to outshine Chevrolet Volt in its segment.  

IMAGE CREDITS:  AUTONET.COM.TW

Also Read: Toyota Prius New Cool Automotive Paint Technology: A Fuel & Energy Savior