Going Green with the Toyota Prius Plug-In

Tweet Toyota will extend its Prius range with the new Prius Plug-in model being launched later in 2012. This new model mates a full hybrid power train to a 4.4 kWh lithium-ion battery that will see the Prius cover larger distances at greater speeds, all on battery power.

When the charge on the battery is depleted the Prius switches over to its hybrid system and keeps driving, unlike other all-electric vehicles. It will take between 1.5 and 3 hours to charge the Prius depending on the power outlet used and the range in all-electric mode differs from between 16-24 km on a full charge depending on road conditions, acceleration and braking.

The hybrid system is powered by a 1.8 petrol engine mated with two electric motors of 60kW and 42kW respectively. The Prius Plug-in clocks 0-100 km/h in 10.7 seconds and reaches a top speed of 180km/h. In all-electric mode the Prius tops 100 km/h. Fuel consumption is impressive at 2.1 litres / 100 km with a CO2 rating of just 49g/km.

Features on the new Toyota Prius include diode headlights, touch screen with satnav and voice recognition, rear view camera, cruise control, Bluetooth and rain sensing wipers. Heating in the front seats will also keep you warm as you steer the leather steering wheel.

It’s still unsure whether the new Toyota Prius Plug-in will reach South Africa.