The next Toyota Prius will be four-wheel drive, capable of 90mpg-plus as well as introduce in 2015 together with a plug-in version – as well as our special picture shows it’ll get a sensational look to match its technology.
The details were leaked by a Toyota engineer, who told automobile reveal that “the next Prius will redefine the hybrid as we understand it”.
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A new ‘C’ platform will assist the Prius shed 70kg. Our source likewise said: “The present 1.8-litre engine will be modified, while the inverter as well as motor will be downsized, however will provide a lot more power.”
The end result will be a vehicle that’s not only quicker than at present, however likewise capable of a lot more than 90mpg fuel economic climate as well as with CO2 emissions of under 70g/km – that’s about 25 per cent much better than the existing Prius.
A similar enhancement won’t be possible with the new plug-in version – the present design handles 134mpg as well as 49g/km – as Toyota doesn’t see the charging structure advancing quick enough, according to the insider. The brand doesn’t want to hike the present plug-in Prius’ £28,000 price, either.
However, both vehicles will get four-wheel drive. “The rear wheels will be driven by a motor in an e-4WD system,” added the insider. “Targeting snowy areas, they will operate at as much as 37mph.”
There’ll be a new style to opt for the radical tech. “The bonnet height will decrease by at least 90mm as well as the vehicle will lose its wedge shape,” we were told. “The A-pillar will step backwards as well as the roofline will be pushed ahead by around 500mm.” Our picture exposes a shape created to be sleeker without denting the aerodynamics or practicality.
There’s expected to be about 500 litres of boot area – sufficient to hold four sets of golf clubs.
Surprisingly, the routine Prius will keep its nickel-metal hydride batteries, with advanced lithium-ion tech reserved for the plug-in model. Toyota engineers still feel the cheaper, old-style batteries handle power shipment much better when it pertains to intensive utilize as well as charging.