New Toyota Prius
As technology moves forward, so does the demand for better quality cars. Currently the latest technology to hit the car world, would be the Hybrid technology. Toyota is definitely not left behind in this field. If there is one car-maker to have this, it would be Toyota.
In Malaysia, sadly we have not got the opportunity to enjoy this sort of mastery on it’s vehicles. But my good judgement says that Toyota in Malaysia “might” bring this in the near future, Toyota Prius, fully equipped with the Hybrid technology. Yes, it is already available in Singapore (SIN $96,000) and could be heading to our shores soon, if the demand here is great for Hybrid engine cars.
This is basically how it would work in the new Toyota Prius, instead of using a series hybrid system that runs purely on electricity and uses the engine to generate power, the HSD (Hybrid Synergy Drive - Toyota’s very own) , which is a series-parallel-system, allows both the electric motor and petrol engine to work separately or together to provide power to the vehicle.
It’s power comes from the two power sources working in synergy with each other.
The Hybrid Synergy Drive (HSD) also increases fuel economy by recovering unused energy, thus increasing efficiency.
This system delivers high levels of efficiency and performance on every tank of petrol. The result? Harmful exhaust emission is dramatically reduced. Now, how do you like that, Toyota Prius having the technology of tomorrow, today?
The Toyota Prius, if it’s available in the Malaysian market, would have a VVT-i (variable valve timing with intelligence) 4 cylinder, 16V DOHC (double overhead cam), 1.5L engine.
Power on the Toyota Prius is placed at 76 hp @ 5,000 rpm (57 kw @ 5,000 rpm). Where else, the net power on the hybrid system is at 110 hp (82 kw). And if you’re wondering what sort of traction batteries are used in the new Toyota Prius, well a Sealed Nickel-Metal Hydride (Ni-MH) battery would be installed.
The one thing that the Malaysian buyers would like is the availability of a Push Button Start ignition system, on the new Toyota Prius. Something only available on high end vehicles at the moment.
Overall, the new Toyota Prius is a lot more of practically everything; more space for a lot more passengers and luggage, latest cutting-edge technology, more power and performance. The only thing I figure the new Toyota Prius will cut back on is it’s fuel consumption and emission. Where less, is truly more. The new Toyota Prius with the technology of tomorrow, today.
