It uses lithium-ion batteries - a first for Toyota - which can be charged from an external source as well as by the car's own hybrid drive system.
The Prius PHV can be charged using an external power source such as a household electric outlet.
Further, due to the battery's expanded capacity, the vehicle has an extended electric-vehicle driving range, enabling use as an electric vehicle (EV) for short distances.
While for medium and long distances, after battery power depletes to a level no longer allowing EV driving mode, the vehicle functions as a conventional petrol-electric hybrid vehicle (HV).
Thus, use is not constrained by remaining battery power or availability of battery-charging infrastructure.
The Prius PHV emits just 59g/km of CO2 in the New European Driving Cycle.
Approximately 600 units will be introduced in Japan, the United States, and Europe over the first half of 2010. 20 will come to the UK in mid 2010.
The Prius PHVs will be leased to government ministries, local governments, corporations including electric power companies, universities and research agencies.
All will be used in a demonstration programme aimed at collecting real-world driving data and spurring the development of battery-charging infrastructure.
Posted on 15.12.2009
