The Toyota Prius is the best-selling hybrid vehicle in the world, a vehicle introduced in 1997 and now claiming more than 1 million units sold. Toyota is ramping up production and expanding the Prius family and may soon sell 1 million units annually worldwide if demand continues to rise. High gas prices are bringing customers in, but even if gas prices plummet, the value of a Prius remains.
Toyota Recovers
This is good news for Toyota which has endured a devastating earthquake and decimating tsunami. As we head through the summer months, production on several Toyota models remains curtailed as suppliers seek to rebuild and as Toyota fixes manufacturing plants which have sustained damage.
Once Toyota works through its issues, the other side should be much brighter. Big on its list is the Prius line, expected to be expanded as three new models are released beginning in fall 2011 and through spring 2012. One of the three models is a plug-in version of the current Prius, a model that will enable some customers to enjoy amazing fuel economy without incurring the steep cost of paying for an electric vehicle.
Hybrid System
The Toyota Prius Plug-In will use the company's familiar hybrid system, but with some differences. Mainly, its electrical power will be generated from an outlet, allowing the car to run on pure electricity before switching over to gasoline. The electric only range hasn't been announced yet, but it if it mirrors the Chevrolet Volt's range, then drivers may be able to travel 35 miles without consuming gasoline. For owners who do a lot of around town driving, the Plug-In Prius could keep them away from gas pumps or at least reduce their visits significantly.
Once the Prius Plug-In exhausts electricity, it automatically switches to gasoline power, extending its range to about 475 miles. This amounts to nearly 100 miles longer than the Volt. Of course, both cars can be refueled at a service station. These models can be recharged in a matter of hours.
Choice Toyota
No other differences between the Plug-In Prius and the regular Prius exist. Both hybrids will be produced, although customers can expect to pay a price premium over the standard model. Likely, the Prius Plug-In will significantly undercut the Volt and perhaps even be priced below the Nissan LEAF, an electric vehicle with a range of about 90 to 100 miles.
In any case, the Prius is a choice Toyota product, one that is certain to be considered by EV fans who value price as much as they value saving fuel.
Matthew C. Keegan is editor and publisher of "Auto Trends Magazine." Matt is also a contributing writer for Andy's Auto Sport and affiliated websites, an aftermarket supplier of quality auto parts including turbo kits and Honda Civic exhaust.
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