Innovative and environment – friendly, the Prius continues to be a popular hybrid choice
WITH the increasing interest in hybrid vehicles, the Toyota Prius has risen to the challenge of becoming the world’s most popular hybrid choice.
Since its introduction in 1997, there are now over two million units on the road worldwide.
This strong demand for the Prius is due to its many innovative features incorporated into the car that contributes to its exciting performance and exceptional fuel efficiency.
The Prius is one of the world’s most aerodynamic production vehicles, with a drag co-efficient of just 0.25Cd but what sets it apart from competitors, is what lies beneath its sleek exterior.
High performance
The current third-generation Prius feature a Hybrd Synergy Drive powertrain comprising a 1.8-litre Atkinson Cycle petrol engine that produces 98 horsepower and a high – output 80 horsepower electric motor that is strong enough to run independently, or combine with the engine’s output for a class-leading total of 134 horsepower for a truly thrilling drive.
Better efficiency and lower emission
The balance of powder between the engine and motor is managed by the intelligent engine Control Unit to maximize fuel efficiency.
The Prius runs only on its motor because petrol engines are least efficient at low speeds,
When cruising, its Electronically Controlled Continuously Variable Transmission (E-CVT) keeps the engine in its most efficient range while the motor provides the optimum level of assistance.
Many technological innovations in the Prius are environment-friendly. The engine is the world’s first production engine to run completely beltless, increasing efficiency by utilising an electric air-conditioning and water pump system.
Along with its low drag co-efficient, the Prius has been recorded to reach 38km on only one litre of petrol, and releases just 89g of carbon per kiloetre based on figures obtained from the Japan Cycle 10-15 mode.
Silent comfort and zero fuel consumption in EV Mode
Unique to the Prius is its Electric Vehicle (VE) mode, running only its electric motor for short journeys of up to 2km. During the EV mode, the car does not use any petrol, thus, it produces almost no noise, giving passengers relaxing, quiet ride.
With optimized placement of noise – dampening materials and Toyota’s n e
Advanced features
The technology in the Prius helps to keep its driver and passengers safe.
The Touch Tracer buttons on the steering wheel allows the driver to safety monitor and contrl all the Prius’ functions just by placing a thumb on the touch-sensitive buttons.
The heads-up display keeps the driver informed without taking his eyes off the road. In the event of a collision, the seven air bags in the car will help to protect passengers and the driver from serious injuries.
Intelligence within reach
The Prius is priced at RM139,900 in Peninsular Malaysia, after full exemption of excise duty which lasts till end of this year.
The price tag makes it attractive proposition for Malaysia drivers looking for guilt-free driving performance, urban practicality and peace of mind knowing that their passengers are well-protected and doing their bit for the environment at the same time. The third-generation Prius is available at selected Toyota showrooms nationwide for a test drive. For more information, contact 1800-8 –TOYOTA (1800-886-9682) from Mon-Fri, 8am-5.30pm.
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