Toyota Prius
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Remove unsupported claim re a meaningless "comparison"
{{Infobox Automobile
|name=Toyota Prius
|image=[[Image:2nd-Toyota-Prius.jpg|250px|2nd-gen Toyota Prius (US)]]
|manufacturer=[[Toyota]]
|similar=[[Honda Civic Hybrid]]
|class=[[Hybrid car]]
|layout=[[FF layout]]
|production=1997–present}}
The '''Toyota Prius''' [ˈpri.əs] <!-- What pronunciation standard is this? IPA? --> is a [[hybrid electric vehicle|hybrid electric]] [[mid-size car]] developed and manufactured by the [[Toyota Motor Corporation]].
The Prius first went on sale in [[Japan]] in [[1997]], making it the first mass-produced hybrid vehicle. It was subsequently introduced worldwide in [[2001]]. The Prius is sold in more than 40 countries and regions, with its largest markets being those of Japan and North America.<ref name="tmc_20080515">{{cite press release |title=Worldwide Prius Sales Top 1 Million |publisher=Toyota Motor Corporation |date=[[2008-05-15]] |url=http://www.toyota.co.jp/en/news/08/0515.html |accessdate=2008-05-29}}</ref>
According to the [[United States Environmental Protection Agency]], the 2008 Prius is the most fuel efficient car sold in the U.S.<ref name="epa most"/>.
According to the [[Department for Transport|UK Department for Transport]], the Prius is tied with the [[MINI (BMW)|MINI Cooper D]] as the third least CO<sub>2</sub>-emitting vehicle on sale in the UK.<ref name="aoc"/>
==History==
In 1994, Toyota executive Takeshi Uchiyamada was given the task of creating a new car which would be both fuel efficient and environmentally friendly.<ref>[http://www.eetimes.com/disruption/profiles/uchiyamada.jhtml Innovator Profiles-Takeshi Uchiyamada - EE Times]</ref> After reviewing over 100 hybrid designs, the engineering team settled on a hybrid engine design based on a 1974 TRW patent, but many technical and engineering problems had to be solved within the three years that the team was given to bring the car to the Japanese market, a goal they barely achieved as the first Prius went on sale in December 1997. A main problem was the longevity of the battery, which needed to last between 7 and 10 years. The solution the engineers came up with was to keep the battery pack between 60% and 40% charged, proving to be the "sweet spot" for extending the battery life to roughly that of the other car components.<ref>[http://www.nytimes.com/2006/10/25/automobiles/autospecial/25battery.html Still Miles to Go for the Plug-In Vehicle - New York Times<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref>
The car was a modest success in Japan and after gathering several years of test data from the Japanese early adopters, the company felt it was safe to put it on sale in the [[United States|U.S.]] and European markets in 2001. Sales were limited and customer waiting lists of up to 6 months were common during the first few years. In 2004, a complete redesign, increased production, and soaring fuel prices led to significant increases in sales.{{Fact|date=July 2008}}
The word '''prius''' is a [[Latin language|Latin]] word meaning "[to go] before."<ref name="intertran">{{cite web | title = intertran.com | url = http://www.tranexp.com:2000/InterTran?url=http%3A%2F%2F&type=text&text=prius&from=ltt&to=eng InterTran Translation}} Latin to English translation.</ref>. A Toyota spokesman stated that "Toyota chose this name because the Prius vehicle is the predecessor of cars to come." <ref name="brainiac">{{cite web | title = boston.com Brainiac | url = http://www.boston.com/news/globe/ideas/brainiac/2007/03/the_plurals_of.html}}</ref>
==Name==
'''Prius''' is not a verb but a Latin [[comparative]] [[adjective]] or [[adverb]], the [[neuter]] [[nominative]] singular form of the adjective whose corresponding masculine and feminine nominative singular forms are '''prior,'''{{Fact|date=May 2008}} (see also [[Latin declension#Irregular adverbs and their comparative and superlative forms|Latin declension - Irregular adverbs and their comparative and superlative forms]]) with meanings "ahead, in front, leading; previous, earlier, preceding, prior; former; basic;" <ref>{{cite web | title = Words by William Whitaker | url = http://www.archives.nd.edu/cgi-bin/words.exe?prior}}</ref>.
Some enthusiasts enjoy using '''Prii''' as the plural, which would be correct if '''prius''' were a regular [[Latin declension#Second declension .28o.29|second declension]] Latin noun. The actual Latin plural of the adjective is '''priora''' (Reference <ref name="brainiac"/> is slightly in error here). All of these forms are [[nominative case]] and there are several other forms for the other [[Grammatical case|cases]]. As for the plural of '''Prius''' in English, Toyota has said that it is simply '''Prius''' and also that owners are welcome to use whatever they like. <ref>{{cite web | title = GreenHybrid: Interview with Ed LaRocque | url = http://www.greenhybrid.com/wiki/index.php/Interview_with_Ed_LaRocque}}</ref>
==Design==
===Technology===
{{seealso|Hybrid Synergy Drive}}
The Prius is a [[hybrid vehicle drivetrain|combined hybrid]] (sometimes referred to as series-parallel), a vehicle that can be propelled by [[gasoline]] (petrol) and/or electric power. Components of the system include:
#[[Regenerative braking]], using motor-generators, which converts [[kinetic energy]] of motion into [[electrical energy]] that is stored in the [[Battery (electricity)#Traction batteries|traction battery]] and reduces wear on the brake pads;
#A [[Toyota NZ engine|1NZ-FXE]] [[internal combustion engine]] (ICE) using the more efficient [[Atkinson cycle]] instead of the more common [[Four-stroke cycle|Otto cycle]]. The gasoline engine normally shuts off during traffic stops and the accessories (including the air conditioning) are powered by the battery pack. The engine is used both to propel the vehicle and to recharge the batteries. Because of the availability of extra power from the electric motors for rapid acceleration the engine is sized smaller than usual for increased fuel efficiency and lowered emissions with acceptable acceleration;
#Two [[electric motor]]/[[electrical generator|generators]]: MG1 and MG2. MG1, reversible and up to 10,000 rpm, starts the engine and provides counter torque for the [[Continuously Variable Transmission]] (CVT). MG2 provides 50 kW (67 hp) between 1,200 to 1,540 rpm and 400 N·m (295 ft·lbf) torque between 0 to 1,200 rpm, contributing to performance and economy. These motor-generators are used as generators when used for regenerative braking, and as motors are capable of starting the vehicle (and gas engine if needed) and low speed (<~30 mph, 41 mph in NHW20) travel;
#A [[Hybrid Synergy Drive]] (HSD) unit that combines a [[Epicyclic gearing|planetary gearset]] that behaves like a [[Continuously Variable Transmission]] (CVT) called the '''Power Split Device'''<ref>{{cite web | title = The Power Split Device | url = http://www.ecrostech.com/prius/original/Understanding/PowerSplitDevice.htm }}</ref> to increase efficiency. The computer controlled HSD transaxle adjusts and blends the amount of power from the gasoline engine and electric motor-generator(s) as needed by the front drive wheels and rechargeable batteries;
#A [[sealed]] 38-module [[nickel metal hydride]] (NiMH) [[rechargeable battery|battery]] pack providing 273.6 volts, 6.5 A·h capacity and weighing {{convert|53.3|kg|lb|abbr=on}}<ref name="cgcc">{{cite web |title=Toyota Prius II Battery Pack |publisher=The Clean Green Car Company |url=http://www.cleangreencar.co.nz/page/prius-battery-pack |accessdate=2008-05-30}}</ref> is supplied by Japan's [[Panasonic EV Energy Co|Panasonic]]. They are normally charged to 40–60% of maximum capacity to prolong battery life as well as provide a reserve for regenerative braking;
#Wind resistance is reduced by a [[Automobile drag coefficients|drag coefficient]] of 0.26 (0.29 for 2000 model) with a [[Kammback]] design to reduce air resistance. Lower rolling-resistance tires are used to reduce road [[friction]];
#A [[vacuum flask]] for storing hot [[coolant]] when the vehicle is powered off for reuse so as to reduce warm-up time (US market);
#An '''[[Toyota Prius#EV mode|EV mode]]''' (or '''stealth mode''') that allows drivers to operate on electric power only under low-power conditions for a limited duration of time (Europe and Asian markets, aftermarket in the US). Advocates for the blind warn that the Prius is silent, and that it could be hazardous to blind pedestrians and others accustomed to engine noise to warn of a nearby vehicle;
#Vehicle weight is reduced by the use of a flexible resin gasoline tank and by the use of [[aluminum]] instead of [[steel]] for the engine bay hood and hatchback.
[[Image:ToyotaOpenHSD.jpg|thumbnail|left|THS inverter unit (from NHW11)]]
The computer program used in the Prius shuts off the engine when the car is stopped, is reversing, or is descending hills, thereby dramatically decreasing fuel consumption in city driving . The [[Hybrid Synergy Drive|HSD]]'s on-board computer program determines when and how to use the engine, motor, or both to power the car and recharge the battery so as to maximize efficiency. Typically, a gasoline engine runs inefficiently at half-throttle, creating a choking condition called [[engine efficiency|pumping loss]], a major reason for the inefficiency of gasoline engines compared to [[diesel engines|diesels]]. The Prius minimizes pumping loss by using a high torque range as much as possible with the throttle fully open. [[Drive-by-wire]] throttle control technology and Toyota's ''[[Hybrid Synergy Drive]]'' (a torque combiner, electric drive, and computer control) are essential to this engine control. In addition to the immediate benefit of reducing fuel consumption and emissions, stopping the gasoline engine also improves the performance of the catalytic converter, as the exhaust gases from an idling engine tend to cool the catalyst below its optimal temperature.
[[Image:Prius mfd energy.jpg|thumb|left|Energy monitor on the 2005 Prius multi-function display (MFD), showing energy flow to/from the engine, battery, and from the regenerative braking, as well as battery charge level.]]
[[Image:Prius2004HSD.JPG|thumbnail|right|Hybrid Synergy Drive]]
Typical gasoline- or diesel-engined vehicles consume fuel when the vehicle is stopped, as is common in city driving. The Prius typically shuts down the gasoline engine and runs solely off the battery pack at low speeds and when stopped. A non-hybrid car also gets worse fuel consumption in city driving because its engine is continually used to accelerate the car to driving speed and then this energy is lost to friction brakes during stop-and-go driving. The Prius recaptures some of this energy by using regenerative braking to charge its battery pack while slowing down with its motor-generators in generator mode. For acceptable acceleration the IC engine on a "standard" car typically is much larger than needed for constant-speed travel. By using both a gasoline engine and electric motors for acceleration the Prius engine can be a smaller, more efficient size and still provide acceptable acceleration. This means the greatest advantages of a hybrid are mainly in city driving, though factors including driving style, air conditioning use, and short trips may offset some of this advantage. The frequent starting and stopping of the Prius engine does not cause noticeable additional wear and tear or emission problems because the electric drive motors have enough power to quickly spin the engine to optimal speed (around 1,000 [[Revolutions per minute|rpm]]) before fuel is admitted.
[[Image:2003 Prius energy screen.jpg|thumb|left|Energy screen on the 2003 Prius]]
For any car, [[aerodynamic]] losses, which vary roughly as the velocity squared due to air [[Drag (physics)|drag]] are much greater on the highway than in low speed city driving. The Prius hybrid has less of an advantage in higher speed open road driving, typical of intercity driving. Nevertheless, the Prius still obtains improved fuel consumption under these circumstances since it can use a smaller and more efficient engine than would otherwise be required. The electric motor(s), powered by the battery pack, can provide the extra peak power needed for acceleration, passing and limited hill climbing. The lower weight, cross sectional area and lowest drag coefficient of a production car in the U.S. market (since the cancellation of the [[Honda Insight]]) make the Prius a very efficient <ref>[http://www.fueleconomy.gov/feg/calculatorSelectEngine.jsp?year=2008&make=Toyota&model=Prius Compare Old and New MPG Estimates<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref><ref name="epa most">{{cite web |title=2008 Most and Least Fuel Efficient Vehicles (ranked by city mpg) |url=http://www.fueleconomy.gov/feg/best/bestworstNF.shtml |publisher=United States Environmental Protection Agency and United States Department of Energy |accessdate=2007-12-25}}</ref> highway traveler, getting {{mpg|45}} on the highway according to the U.S. EPA. The environmental impact of the car's batteries has been questioned.<ref>[http://www.hybridcars.com/faq.html#battery Frequently Asked Questions | Hybrid Cars<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref> To encourage battery recycling, dealers are paid a $200 fee for return of the car's batteries.<ref>{{cite web
|title=Hybrid Hype? Fact and Fiction Surrounding the New Technology
|url=http://www.toyota.com/about/environment/technology/2004/hybrid.html
|publisher=Toyota}}</ref>
Toyota has laboratory reports that some Prius battery packs have lasted the equivalent of {{convert|180000|mi|km}} <ref name="cgcc"/> As the cars start to age, early reports have shown that in at least some cases the batteries can last in excess of {{convert|250000|mi|km}}<ref>[http://www.hybridexperience.ca/Toyota_Prius.htm#hybridtaxi The Hybrid Experience Project<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref> Individual battery longevity will vary depending upon the treatment and use history of the battery pack. A degraded battery pack will reduce performance and fuel economy, but not leave the car inoperable.
==Models==
{| class="wikitable"
|-
!colspan="2" rowspan="2"| Feature
!colspan="3"| Model code
|-
! NHW10
! NHW11
! NHW20
|-
|colspan="2"| Body style
|align="center"| 4-door<br>[[Sedan]]
|align="center"| 4-door<br>Sedan
|align="center"| 5-door<br>[[Hatchback]]
|-
|colspan="2"| First sales
|align="right"| 1997
|align="right"| 2000
|align="right"| 2003
|-
|rowspan="8"|Battery
|Modules
|align="right"| 40
|align="right"| 38
|align="right"| 28
|-
|Cells per module
|align="right"| 6
|align="right"| 6
|align="right"| 6
|-
|Total cells
|align="right"| 240
|align="right"| 228
|align="right"| 168
|-
|Volts per cell
|align="right"| 1.2
|align="right"| 1.2
|align="right"| 1.2
|-
|Total volts (nominal)
|align="right"| 288
|align="right"| 273.6
|align="right"| 201.6
|-
|Capacity amp hours
|align="right"| 6.0
|align="right"| 6.5
|align="right"| 6.5
|-
|Capacity Watt hours
|align="right"| 1728
|align="right"| 1778.4
|align="right"| 1310.4
|-
|Weight kg
|align="right"| 57
|align="right"| 50
|align="right"| 45
|-
|rowspan="2"|Gasoline Engine
|Power kW/HP
|align="right"| 43/58
|align="right"| 52/70
|align="right"| 57/76
|-
|Max rpm
|align="right"| 4000
|align="right"| 4500
|align="right"| 5000
|-
|rowspan="2"|Electric Motor
|Operating Voltage
|align="right"| 288
|align="right"| 273
|align="right"| 500
|-
|Power kW/HP
|align="right"| 30/40
|align="right"| 33/44
|align="right"| 50/67
|-
|Combined
|Power kW/HP
|align="right"| ?/?
|align="right"| 73/98
|align="right"| 82/110
|}
===1997–2000 Prius (model NHW10)===
{{Infobox Automobile generation
|name=NHW10
|production=1997–2001
|image=[[Image:TOYOTA Prius.jpg|250px|0th Generation "Original" Prius]]
|class=[[Compact car]]
|body_style=4-door [[Sedan (car)|sedan]]
|competitor=[[Honda Civic Hybrid]]
|assembly=Takaoka, later [[Motomachi]], [[Japan]]<ref name="ran_20031002">{{cite web |title=Hybrids Can Be Cheap to Make, Toyota Says |author=Chang-Ran Kim |url=http://ran.org/media_center/news_article/?uid=833 |date=[[2003-10-02]] |publisher=Rainforest Action Network |accessdate=2008-05-30}}</ref>
|engine='''[[Hybrid Synergy Drive#Toyota Hybrid System (THS)|Toyota Hybrid System]]'''<br />'''Gasoline''': 1.5 L [[DOHC]] [[Straight-4|I4]]<br />13.5:1 [[compression ratio|compression]]<br />43 [[Watt|kW]] (58 [[horsepower#hp (SAE)|hp]]) @ 4000 rpm<br />102 [[Newton metre|N·m]] (75 [[Torque|ft·lbf]]) @ 4000 rpm<br />'''Electric''': 288 [[volt|V]] motor<br />30 kW (40 hp) @ 940 rpm<br />305 N·m (225 ft·lbf) @ 0 rpm
|length=4275 mm (168.3 in)
|width=1694 mm (66.7 in)
|height=1491 mm (58.7 in)
|wheelbase=2550 mm (100.4 in)
}}
The first Prius, model NHW10, went on sale in December 1997.<ref>Taylor, A., [http://money.cnn.com/magazines/fortune/fortune_archive/2006/03/06/8370702/index.htm Birth of the Prius], Fortune, [[February 24]], [[2006]]. Retrieved [[2007-12-19]].</ref> It was sold only in Japan, though they have been imported privately to the United Kingdom, Australia, and New Zealand.<ref>[http://www.cleangreencar.co.nz/page/prius-history Prius Model History], Clean Green Car Company. Retrieved 2007-12-19.</ref> Many of these cars are now being [[Japanese used vehicle exporting|exported as second-hand vehicles]] to New Zealand and other countries.<ref>[http://www.trademe.co.nz/Browse/SearchResults.aspx?sort_order=default&searchstring=prius+199*¤t=0 Recent sales of Generation 1 Prius in New Zealand] - [[TradeMe]]</ref>
{{clear}}
===2001–2003 Prius (model NHW11)===
{{Infobox Automobile generation
|name=NHW11
|image=[[Image:Toyota-Prius.jpg|250px|Toyota Prius]]
|production=2000–2003
|assembly=[[Toyota City|Toyota City (Motomachi)]], [[Japan]]<ref name="iag">{{cite web |title=2001 Toyota Prius Review Summary |publisher=Source Interlink Media |work=Internet Auto Guide.com |url=http://www.internetautoguide.com/reviews/09-int/2001/toyota/prius/summary.html |accessdate=2008-05-30}}</ref>
|class=[[Compact car]]
|body_style=4-door [[Sedan (car)|sedan]]
|engine='''[[Hybrid Synergy Drive#Toyota Hybrid System (THS)|Toyota Hybrid System]]'''<br />'''Gasoline''': 1.5 L [[DOHC]] [[Straight-4|I4]] [[VVT-i]]<br />13.0:1 [[compression ratio|compression]]<br />52 kW (70 hp) @ 4500 rpm<br />110 N·m (82 ft·lbf) @ 4200 rpm<br />'''Electric''': 273.6 [[volt|V]] motor<br />33 kW (44 hp) @ 1040 rpm<br />350 N·m (258 ft·lbf) @ 0 rpm<br />[[SULEV]]
|length=4308 mm (169.6 in)
|width=1694 mm (66.7 in)
|height=1463 mm (57.6 in)
|weight=1254.2 kg (2765 lb)
|wheelbase=2550 mm (100.4 in)
|transmission=1-speed [[Epicyclic gearing|planetary gear]]<!--Prius does not have a CVT, although the combination behaves as does a CVT (see article text)-->
}}
The 2001–2003 Prius for the United States market was powered by a 1.5-liter 4 cylinder<ref name="iag"/> gasoline engine, a permanent magnet AC electric motor, and a 274-volt nickel-metal hydride (Ni-MH) battery pack. The gasoline engine developed {{convert|70|hp|abbr=on}} and {{convert|82|ft.lbf|N.m|abbr=on}} of torque. The electric motor generated a maximum of {{convert|44|hp|abbr=on}} and {{convert|258|ft.lbf|N.m|abbr=on}} of torque. Japanese versions were less powerful.<ref>Russ, C., [http://www.theautochannel.com/vehicles/new/reviews/2001/russ0041.html Toyota Pruis (2001)], The Auto Channel. Retrieved 2007-12-20.</ref>
The engine and motor power were increased over the previous model.
Air conditioning and a continuously variable transmission were standard equipment.<ref>[http://www.cartalk.com/content/testdrives/Reviews/toyota-prius-2001.html Test Drive Notes: Toyota Prius 2001], Car Talk. Retrieved [[2007-12-20]].</ref>
In the United States, the NHW11 was the first Prius to be sold. The Prius was marketed between the smaller [[Toyota Vitz|Echo]] and the larger [[Toyota Corolla|Corolla]]. The published retail price of the car was US$19,995.<ref>[http://www.internetautoguide.com/reviews/09-int/2001/toyota/prius/lineup.html 2001 Toyota Prius Lineup], Internet Autoguide. Retrieved 2007-12-20.</ref> The [[California Air Resources Board]] (CARB) classified the car as a [[Super Ultra Low Emission Vehicle]] (SULEV).<ref>Adams, M., [http://www.electrifyingtimes.com/ev1crush.html Why is GM Crushing its EV-1's?], Electrifying Times, [[December 2]], [[2001]]. Retrieved [[2007-12-20]].</ref> European sales began in September 2000.<ref>Tsukada, M., [http://www2.aia.pref.aichi.jp/voice/no13/13_cutting_edge.html Aichi's Artisanship in the Auto Industry], Aichi Voice (Cutting Edge). </ref> The official launch of the Prius in Australia occurred in 2001 after the Sydney Motor Show.<ref>[http://www.caradvice.com.au/1697/more-toyota-prius-coming-to-australia/ More Toyota Priuses Coming to Australia], Australian Car Advice, [[March 1]], [[2007]]. Retrieved 2007-12-20.</ref>
{{clear}}
===2004–present Prius (model NHW20)===
{{Infobox Automobile generation
|name=NHW20
|production=2004–2008
|assembly=Tsutsumi, [[Japan]] (Toyota City)<br>[[Kariya]], [[Aichi]], [[Japan]]<br>[[Blue Springs]], [[Mississippi]] (beginning in fall 2010)
|image=[[Image:2nd Toyota Prius.jpg|250px|Toyota Prius]]
|class=[[Midsize car]]
|body_style=5-door [[hatchback]]
|engine='''[[Toyota Hybrid System II]]'''<br />'''Gasoline''': 1.5 L [[DOHC]] [[Straight-4|I4]] [[VVT-i]]<br />57 kW (76 hp) @ 5000 rpm<br />115 N·m (85 ft·lbf) @ 4200 rpm<br />'''Electric''': 500 [[volt|V]]<br />50 kW (67 hp) @ 1200 rpm<br />400 N·m (295 ft·lbf) @ 0 rpm<br />[[AT-PZEV]]<br />Net power: 110 hp (82 kW)
|length=4450 mm (175.33 in)
|width=1725 mm (67.97 in)
|height=1490 mm (58.71 in)
|weight=1325 kg (2921 lb)
|transmission=1-speed [[Epicyclic gearing|planetary gear]]<!--Prius does not have a CVT, although the combination behaves as does a CVT (see article text)-->
|wheelbase=2700 mm (106.3 in)
}}
[[Image:Toyota Paris 6.JPG|thumb|2006 Prius cut-away in Toyota showroom in Paris]]
The Prius is completely redesigned into a mid-size liftback which is between the Corolla and the [[Toyota Camry|Camry]] in size. The new model is {{convert|6|in|mm}} longer than the previous version.<ref>[http://www.motortrend.com/oftheyear/car/112_04_coy_win/interior.html Motor Trend 2004 Car of the Year Winner: Toyota Prius], Motor Trend. Retrieved 2007-12-21.</ref> Its more aerodynamic body resulted in a [[drag coefficient]] of 0.26.<ref name="mtm">{{cite web |title=Motor Trend 2004 Car of the Year Winner: Toyota Prius |publisher=Source Interlink Media |work=MotorTrend Magazine |url=http://www.motortrend.com/oftheyear/car/112_04_coy_win |accessdate=2008-05-30}}</ref>
The new [[Hybrid Synergy Drive]] ('''HSD''') uses an all-electric compressor for cooling. Combined with a smaller and lighter NiMH battery, the NHW20 is more powerful and more efficient than the NHW11.<ref>[http://www.cartalk.com/content/testdrives/Reviews/toyota-prius-2004.html Test Drive Notes: 2004 Toyota Prius], Car Talk. Retrieved [[2007-12-21]].</ref> Air conditioning is now operated independently of the gasoline engine, an industry first.<ref>Bowden, R. (2004), [http://cars.about.com/cs/testdrives/fr/prius_tst.htm 2004 Toyota Prius], About. Retrieved 2007-12-21.</ref> In the U.S., the battery pack of the 2004 Prius is warranted for {{convert|100000|mi}} or 8 years, although Toyota has stated that they expect it to last 15 years. The warranty is instead {{convert|150000|mi}} or 10 years<ref>{{cite web | title = Car Talk Bulletin Boards: Prius Battery | url = http://cartalk.com/board/showflat.php?Cat=0&Number=198901&an=0&page=18}}</ref> for Prius in [[California]], and in the seven [[Northeastern United States|Northeastern states]] that have adopted the stricter [[California Air Resources Board|California emission control standards]].
[[Image:PriusTaxi.jpg|left|thumb|Taxi in [[Vancouver, British Columbia]], [[Canada]]]] Prius Taxis are common in [[Victoria, British Columbia|Victoria]] and [[Vancouver, British Columbia]]. BC government has now proposed a regulation that requires all new taxis to be hybrids.
It is classified as a [[SULEV]] (Super Ultra Low Emissions Vehicle and is certified by [[California Air Resources Board]] as an "Advanced Technology Partial Zero Emission Vehicle" (AT-[[PZEV]]).<ref>[http://www.motortrend.com/oftheyear/car/112_04_coy_win/handling.html Motor Trend 2004 Car of the Year Winner: Toyota Prius], Motor Trend. Retrieved 2007-12-21.</ref>
NHTSA (United States) crash testing of the 2004 Prius yielded a five star driver and four star passenger rating in the frontal collision test (out of five stars). Side crash results were four out of five stars for both front and rear seats. The car scored four out of five stars in rollover testing. There was a massive 2 month waiting list for this car in the [[United Kingdom]] as they were only being produced outside Europe.<ref>{{cite web | title = 2004 Toyota Prius 4-DR |url = http://www.nhtsa.dot.gov/ncap/cars/2971.html}}</ref>
In 2004, [[EuroNCAP]] tested the Prius. It earned the following ratings:
Adult Occupant: {{rating-5|5}}
Child Occupant: {{rating-5|4}}
Pedestrian: {{rating-4|2}}.<ref>{{cite web
|title=Toyota Prius
|work=Tests
|publisher=EURO NCAP
|url=http://www.euroncap.com/tests/toyota_prius_2004/193.aspx
}}</ref>
Among the Prius' options are Toyota's implementation of an [[advanced key]] called Smart Key System or SKS (the feature can be user-deactivated), a backup camera displayed on the multi-function display (MFD), DVD navigation on the MFD, vehicle stability control and [[Bluetooth]] for [[Bluetooth profile#Hands-Free Profile (HFP)|hands-free calling]]. Automated parallel and reverse parking is available in Japan and Europe. <ref>{{cite web |title = Look, no hands! New Toyota parks itself | url = http://www.cnn.com/2004/TECH/ptech/01/15/car.selfpark.ap/index.html}}</ref>
Production of the Prius for the [[China]] market began in December 2005 by [[Sichuan FAW Toyota Motor]], a [[joint venture]] with [[First Automobile Works]]. The Prius has been used for police duties and in other emergency fleets.
The 2006 model introduced some minor cosmetic changes, such as a higher-resolution [[liquid crystal display]], as well as new optional features such as a rear-view camera, advanced airbags and an upgraded audio system with an auxiliary input. The 2007 Prius adds advanced and side-curtain airbags standard on all models. A Touring Edition was introduced that includes an elongated larger rear spoiler as well as larger, sharper-pointed 7-spoke 16" alloy wheels with plastic hub cap cover to protect it from scratches when parking against the curb. The Touring Edition also comes with a firmer European style tuned suspension, standard high-intensity-discharge (HID) headlights and integrated (non-HID) fog lights.
==Fuel consumption==
[[Image:Priuslcd.jpg|thumb|right|Monitor on a 2005 Toyota Prius MFD, displaying accumulative fuel economy for {{convert|59|mi|km}} since last gas fill-up.]]
In the [[United States]], the [[Environmental Protection Agency]] (EPA) test results must be posted on new vehicle windows, and are the only fuel consumption figures that can be advertised. EPA testing procedures for all vehicles were revised in 2007 in an attempt to better match what the average driver would achieve.<ref>{{cite news |title=Hybrid Cars' Fantasy Mileage Ratings Drive Into the Sunset |author=Gartner, John |publisher=CondéNet |work=Wired |date=[[2007-05-14]] |url=http://www.wired.com/cars/futuretransport/news/2007/05/hybrid_mpg |accessdate=2008-06-03}}</ref> The following data is taken from these figures: 2008 Prius {{mpg|48}} for city driving, {{mpg|45}} for highway driving, {{mpg|46}} combined; 2001 Prius {{mpg|42}} city, {{mpg|41}} highway.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.fueleconomy.gov/feg/noframes/24882.shtml |title=2008 Toyota Prius |publisher=U.S. EPA |accessdate=2007-12-25}}</ref> The Prius is the most efficient car available in the U.S. in 2008, based on the official rating.<ref name="epa most"/>
The Prius is the most fuel efficient car that [[Consumer Reports]] has tested<ref>
http://www.consumerreports.org/cro/cars/new-cars/buying-advice/most-fuelefficient-cars-206/index.htm</ref>, giving a real-world fuel consumption of {{mpg|44}} for the Prius<ref>[http://www.consumerreports.org/cro/cars/new-cars/high-cost-of-hybrid-vehicles-406/overview/index.htm ConsumerReports.org - High cost of hybrid vehicles 9/06: Hybrid cars, gas/electric cars<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref>.
[[Image:Prius666.JPG|thumb|right|The LCD display on a 2005 Toyota Prius, displaying a fuel consumption average of {{mpg|66.6}} after {{convert|88|mi|km}}.]]
In the [[United Kingdom]] there are eight cars on the market which are more fuel–efficient than the Prius on combined use. The official fuel consumption data, provided by the [[Department for Transport]], rates the Prius as: {{Mpg (Imperial)|56.5}} urban, {{Mpg (Imperial)|67.3}} extra urban and {{Mpg (Imperial)|65.7}} combined.<ref>{{cite web |title=Vehicle details for Prius 1.5 VVT-i Hybrid E-CVT |publisher=UK Department for Transport |url=http://www.vcacarfueldata.org.uk/search/vehicleDetails.asp?id=10982 |accessdate=2008-06-03}}</ref>
===Comparisons with other vehicles===
Several publications have tested the fuel economy of the Prius and compared it directly with other cars.
Consumer tests have shown petrol-electric hybrid cars in general are little more efficient than top of the range diesels. <ref>{{cite news |title=Diesel hybrids could enter Le Mans|date=[[2008-06-13]] |publisher=BBC News |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/business/7437245.stm |accessdate=2008-06-13}}</ref> It should be noted that [[diesel fuel]] has a significantly [[Diesel#Petroleum_diesel|higher energy density]] than the gasoline used by the Prius.
The UK's [[Sunday Times]] did a comparison of the Prius with another car in long distance town and country driving.<ref name="st_20080316">{{cite news |title=Toyota Prius proves a gas guzzler in a race with the BMW 520d |author=Nicholas Rufford and Jason Dawe |date=[[2008-03-16]] |publisher=Times Newspapers |work=The Sunday Times |url=http://driving.timesonline.co.uk/tol/life_and_style/driving/used_car_reviews/article3552994.ece |accessdate=2008-05-23}}</ref> The results showed that the other car, a [[BMW E60|BMW 520d SE]] with a {{Auto bhp|177|1}} diesel engine and [[regenerative braking]], averaged {{Mpg (Imperial)|50.3}} whilst the Prius averaged {{Mpg (Imperial)|48.1}} over exactly the same route. The comparison was performed on a journey of {{convert|545|mi|km}} from [[London]] to [[Geneva]], including {{Convert|100|mi|km}} of urban driving, about {{Convert|200|mi|km}} of driving on rural roads, and about {{Convert|200|mi|km}} of [[motorway]] driving at speeds of up to {{Convert|78|mph|km/h}} on one French [[autoroute]].
[[Auto Express]] magazine performed independent fuel efficiency tests, on public roads, on a number of [[hatchback]]s, and in August 2007 published their list of the ten most efficient. The Prius achieved 10th place in the list, returning {{Mpg (Imperial)|41.5}}. A [[Citroën C4|Citroën C4 Coupé 1.6 HDi]] got 1st place with {{Mpg (Imperial)|49.6}}.<ref>{{cite news |title=Top 100 most fuel-efficient cars - hatchbacks |date=[[2007-08-09]] |publisher=Dennis Publishing |work=Auto Express magazine |url=http://www.autoexpress.co.uk/news/autoexpressnews/209792/top_100_most_fuelefficient_cars.html |accessdate=2008-06-04}}</ref>
[[Motor Trend]] magazine conducted a test comparing the Prius with a [[Honda Civic Hybrid]]. The Prius had the better fuel economy by {{mpg|3.9}}, achieving {{mpg|43.8}} compared to {{mpg|39.9}} for the Civic.<ref>{{cite web |title=Road Test: 2006 Honda Civic Hybrid vs. 2006 Toyota Prius & 2005 Honda Accord Hybrid vs. 2007 Toyota Camry Hybrid |publisher=MotorTrend Magazine |url=http://www.motortrend.com/roadtests/hybrid/112_0604_hybrid_sedan_comparison/honda_civic_toyota_prius_specs.html |accessdate=2008-07-04}}</ref> In a similar comparison performed by [[Edmunds.com]], the Prius managed an additional {{mpg|4.5}} at {{mpg|48.3}}.<ref>{{cite web |title=Hybrid Comparison Test: 2006 Honda Civic vs. 2005 Toyota Prius |publisher=Edmunds |url=http://www.edmunds.com/insideline/do/Drives/Comparos/articleId=108445/pageId=67436 |accessdate=2008-07-04}}</ref>
In a [[Popular Mechanics]] magazine diesel versus hybrid comparison of February 2005, the Prius outperformed the [[Volkswagen Jetta|Volkswagen Jetta GL TDI]] diesel in both city and highway fuel economy.<ref>{{cite web |title=Diesel Vs. Hybrid: TOYOTA PRIUS |date=February 2005 |url=http://www.popularmechanics.com/automotive/new_cars/1215782.html?page=7 |accessdate=2008-07-04}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Diesel Vs. Hybrid: VOLKSWAGEN JETTA GL TDI
|date=February 2005 |url=http://www.popularmechanics.com/automotive/new_cars/1215782.html?page=6 |accessdate=2008-07-04}}</ref>
The Prius was the overall winner of the [[Edmunds.com]] "Gas-Sipper Smackdown" fuel economy test, winning three of the five tests. The [[Volkswagen Jetta|VW Jetta TDI]] won two of the tests. The other cars tested were the [[Smart Fortwo]] and the North American [[Ford Focus (North America)|Ford Focus]].<ref>{{cite web |title=Fuel Economy: Gas-Sipper Smackdown! |date=[[2008-05-20]] |publisher=Edmunds |url=http://www.edmunds.com/advice/fueleconomy/articles/126370/article.html |accessdate=2008-04-07}}</ref>
==Controversies==
===Lifetime energy cost===
A controversial 2006 study by [[CNW Marketing Research]], Inc. calculated the [[Life cycle assessment|overall energy cost]] of a Prius at {{USD|3.25}} per mile ($2.02/km) and a [[Chevrolet Tahoe]] [[Sport utility vehicle|SUV]] at {{USD|2.94}} per mile ($1.83/km). It concluded that 2005 hybrids cost "significantly more in overall energy costs than conventional Internal Combustion Engine [sic] (ICE) vehicles."<ref name="cnw">{{cite web
|url=http://cnwmr.com/nss-folder/automotiveenergy/DUST%20PDF%20VERSION.pdf
|title=Dust to Dust: The Energy Cost of New Vehicles from Concept to Disposal
|accessdate=2007-07-27
|year=2006
|month=December
|publisher=CNW Marketing Research, Inc.
}}</ref> David Friedman of the [[Union of Concerned Scientists]] commented that the study "has been completely contradicted by studies from [[Massachusetts Institute of Technology|MIT]], [[Argonne National Laboratory]], and [[Carnegie Mellon University|Carnegie Mellon]]'s Lifecycle Assessment Group."<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.thecarconnection.com/Auto_News/Green_Car_News/Prius_Versus_HUMMER_Exploding_the_Myth.S196.A12220.html
|title=Prius Versus HUMMER: Exploding the Myth
|accessdate=2007-07-27
|date=2007-04-16
|last=Halvorson
|first=Bengt
|publisher=The Car Connection}}</ref> An article on the [[Better World Club]] website<ref>{{cite web
|title=No, The Hummer Actually Isn't More Energy Efficient Than A Prius
|publisher=Better World Club
|url=http://www.betterworldclub.com/articles/hummer-not-more-efficient.htm
}}</ref> investigates the source of the statement "a Hummer is more energy efficient over its lifetime than a Prius", which it characterizes as an [[urban legend]]. It suggests that the source may be the CNW "Dust to dust" study,<ref name="cnw"/> or follow-up articles by James L. Martin or Chris Demorro, and goes on to challenge some of the assumptions made in the study. A critique of the 2007 version of the CNW report by the Pacific Institute concluded that "closer inspection suggests that the report's conclusions rely on faulty methods of analysis, untenable assumptions, selective use and presentation of data, and a complete lack of peer review. Even the most cursory look reveals serious biases and flaws."<ref>Gleick, Peter H. [http://www.pacinst.org/topics/integrity_of_science/case_studies/hummer_vs_prius.pdf "Hummer versus Prius: 'Dust to Dust' Report Misleads the Media and Public with Bad Science,"] Pacific Institute, PDF version via pacinst.org, May 2007. Retrieved on [[2007]]-[[08-22]].</ref>
CNW Marketing's 2007 update<ref>[http://cnwmr.com/nss-folder/automotiveenergy/ Automotive Energy<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref> for 2006 model year vehicles (see spreadsheet)<ref>">{{cite web
|url=http://cnwmr.com/nss-folder/automotiveenergy/Cost%20per%20mile%20by%20segment%20by%20model%20and%20sorts.xls
|title=Cost per mile by segment by model and sorts
|accessdate=2008-01-30
|year=2007
|month=March
|publisher=CNW Marketing Research, Inc.
}}</ref> now lists the Prius as 25% less expensive per mile than the [[GMC Yukon]], 28% less expensive than the [[Hummer H1]] and 30% less expensive than the [[Toyota Sequoia]]. The update however does not include any of the details present in the 2005 report, so it is not certain if their previous assumptions of {{convert|109000|mi|km}} for a Prius lifetime versus {{convert|380000|mi|km}} or more for the lifetime of a large SUV are still being used, or if came from improved economies of scale.
===CO<sub>2</sub> claims===
According to the [[Department for Transport|UK Department for Transport]], the Prius is tied with the diesel [[MINI (BMW)|MINI Cooper D]] as the third least CO<sub>2</sub>-emitting vehicles behind the tied [[Volkswagen Polo|Volkswagen Polo 1.4 TDI]] and [[SEAT Ibiza|SEAT Ibiza 1.4 TDI]].<ref name="aoc">{{cite web |title=Best on CO<sub>2</sub> rankings |publisher=UK Department for Transport |url=http://www.dft.gov.uk/ActOnCO2/index.php?q=best_on_co2_rankings |accessdate=2008-05-30}}</ref>
In the UK, the [[Advertising Standards Authority]], an independent body charged with policing the rules of the advertising industry, ruled that a television advert for the Toyota Prius should not be broadcast again in the same form, having breached rules concerning misleading advertising. The advert claimed the Prius "emits up to one tonne less CO<sub>2</sub> per year," while on-screen text included: "1 tonne of CO<sub>2</sub> less than an equivalent family vehicle with a diesel engine. Average calculated on 20,000 km a year." Points of contention were the vehicles chosen for comparison, whether "''up to'' one tonne less" adequately communicated that reductions could be lower, and whether the distance used was appropriate: 20,000 km per year is around a U.S. car's average annual driving distance, while a UK car's is 13,440 km.<ref>{{cite web
|title=ASA Adjudication: Toyota (GB) plc
|date=[[2007-06-06]]
|publisher=UK Advertising Standards Authority
|url=http://www.asa.org.uk/asa/adjudications/Public/TF_ADJ_42615.htm
}}</ref>
An earlier complaint to the New Zealand Advertising Standards Authority, decision 03/360 2003 was also upheld. It was ruled that Toyota were in breach of the New Zealand advertising standards code of ethics, by claiming "up to 89% fewer smog forming emissions”. The figure was based on comparison with Euro 3 standards, which most new cars also met comfortably at the time.
A similar complaint was made in Australia and the UK in regards to an advertisement in ''National Geographic'' magazine, November 2002. However this case was dismissed. The adverts appeared only in the Australian edition but the Australian Advertising Standards Bureau does not deal with issues of truthfulness.
===Image===
====Political symbolism====
The large number of Prius-owning progressive celebrities in 2002 prompted the ''[[The Washington Post|Washington Post]]'' to dub hybrids "Hollywood's latest politically correct status symbol."<ref>[http://www.washingtonpost.com/ac2/wp-dyn?pagename=article&node=&contentId=A2587-2002Jun5 "Half Gas, Half Electric, Total California Cool: Hollywood Gets a Charge Out of Hybrid Cars."] ''The Washington Post'', page C01, via washingtonpost.com, [[2002]]-[[06-06]]. Retrieved on [[2007]]-[[08-13]].</ref> While conservative "Prius Patriots" were also cited in 2005,<ref>Anderson, Kevin. [http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/americas/4283117.stm "Hybrid cars take hold in US."] ''BBC News Website'', [[2005]]-[[02-22]]. Retrieved on [[2007]]-[[08-13]].</ref>
the vehicle carries an image as being a car for politically liberal environmentalists. A 2007 San Francisco Chronicle article said "Prius Progressives" were becoming an archetype, quoting conservative U.S. pundit Rush Limbaugh opining that "these liberals think they're ahead of the game on these things, and they're just suckers."<ref name="haddock">Haddock, Vicki. [http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?file=/c/a/2007/07/15/INGHKQVEIM1.DTL "Oh, so pious, Prius drivers: Smugness drifts over the warming Earth -- is that a bad thing?"] ''San Francisco Chronicle'', page D-3, via sfgate.com, [[2007]]-[[07-15]]. Retrieved on [[2007]]-[[08-13]].</ref>
Some conservatives promote use of the Toyota Prius. For example, Jim Road from ''What Would Jesus Drive?'' encouraged people to drive hybrid cars because of the damage that large SUVs can do to others.
Former CIA chief [[R. James Woolsey, Jr.]] drives a Prius because of its low fuel consumption. Woolsey claims that money that pays for imports of gasoline help fund terrorism and states hostile to the United States. Ben Oliver writes the following: "By rights, Woolsey ought to drive a big, bad Hummer. Instead, he drives a Prius, and he says that if you live in a country dependent on imported oil, it's your patriotic duty to do the same. His argument is simple: It's a bad thing for transport to depend on oil when the great majority of that oil lies in volatile parts of the world whose governments are hostile to the West. Moreover, he argues that, by making the [[Middle East]] so wealthy, we're indirectly subsidizing terror. For Woolsey, the cash register at your local gas station is a collection box for [[al-Qaeda]]. 'We're paying for both sides in this war, and that's not a good long-term strategy,' he says. 'I have a bumper sticker on the back of my Prius that reads, "Bin Laden hates this car."'"<ref>[http://www.motortrend.com/features/consumer/112_0705_james_woolsey_interview/ James Woolsey - Interview - Motor Trend<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref>
====Fashion over function====
The Prius's shape gives it a low 0.26 [[Automobile drag coefficients|coefficient of drag]].<ref>Edmunds.com. [http://www.edmunds.com/advice/fueleconomy/articles/106954/article.html "Improving Aerodynamics to Boost Fuel Economy"] [[2 May]] [[2006]]. [[31 May]] [[2008]]</ref>
In spite of the efficiency of the Prius's shape, in 2004, industry analyst Art Spinella of [[CNW Marketing Research]] (CNWMR), whose skepticism towards hybrids is well known (see [[Toyota_Prius#Lifetime_energy_cost|Lifetime energy cost]]), said "the Prius was a fashion statement", attributing its success over the [[Honda Civic Hybrid]], which has a nearly identical appearance to its non-hybrid versions, to its distinctive styling, which lets "other people know the driver is driving a hybrid vehicle". However, this does not explain the lack of success for the even more distinctive [[Honda Insight]].<ref>[http://www.cars.com/go/compare/trimCompare.jsp?acodes=USB80TOC161C0,USB80HOC071A0 2008 Toyota Prius vs. 2008 Honda Civic Hybrid<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref>. (Excluding the fact that demand for two-seaters is far less than that for four-seaters.)
In July 2007 the ''[[The New York Times]]''<ref>Maynard, Micheline; Nick Bunkley and Mary M. Chapman contributing. [http://www.nytimes.com/2007/07/04/business/04hybrid.html?ex=1341288000&en=4beada66541df849&ei=5124 "Say 'Hybrid' and Many People will Hear 'Prius.'"] ''The New York Times'', via nytimes.com, [[2007]]-[[07-04]]. Retrieved on [[2007]]-[[08-13]].</ref> published an article using data from [[CNW Marketing Research]] finding that 57% of Prius buyers said their main reason for buying was that "it makes a statement about me.", while just 36% cited fuel economy as a prime motivator. Shortly afterwards ''Washington Post'' columnist Robert Samuelson coined the term "Prius politics" to describe a situation where the driver's desire to "show off" is a stronger motivator than the desire to curb [[greenhouse gas]] emissions.<ref>Samuelson, Robert J. [http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2007/07/24/AR2007072401855.html "Prius Politics."] ''The Washington Post'', page A15, via washingtonpost.com, [[2007]]-[[07-25]]. Retrieved on [[2007]]-[[08-13]].</ref>
====Quietness====
The [[Wall Street Journal]] reported in February 2007 on concerns that quiet cars like the Prius may pose a safety risk to those who rely on engine noise to sense the presence or location of moving vehicles.<ref>{{cite web
|date=[[2007-02-13]]
|url=http://online.wsj.com/public/article/SB117133115592406662-7BH5dNRG2MssUH28WlvpqNMnCy8_20080212.html
|title=Blind Pedestrians Say Quiet Hybrids Pose Safety Threat
|publisher=The Wall Street Journal Online
}}</ref> Blind pedestrians are a primary concern, and the [[National Federation of the Blind]] advocates audio emitters on hybrid vehicles,<ref>{{cite web
|date=August/September, 2003
|url=http://www.nfb.org/Images/nfb/Publications/bm/bm06/bm0608/bm060813.htm
|title=National Federation of the Blind 2006 Resolutions
|publisher=The Braille Monitor
}}</ref> but increased risks may also affect sighted pedestrians or bicyclists who are accustomed to aural cues from vehicles. In July 2007, a spokesperson for Toyota said the company is aware of the issue and is studying options<ref>{{cite web
|date=[[2007-07-20]]
|url=http://www.startribune.com/397/story/1314682.html
|title=Fixit: Will quiet hybrids get noisier?
|publisher=StarTribune.com (Star Tribune, Minneapolis MN)
|author=Youso, Karen
}}</ref>.
====Navigation system====
The Prius' onboard GPS navigation system (as well as other models, such as the Lexus, which use the same technology) is designed so that destinations cannot be entered while the vehicle is in motion. According to the owner's manual, this is done for the driver's own safety (so that he is not distracted by trying to operate the navigation system while driving the car). However, this feature has caused considerable complaints from many owners who travel with a passenger and who want to have the passenger operate the navigation system while the driver is driving. Some owners claim that this actually increases the danger, as pulling off a highway onto the shoulder to enter a destination and then attempting to merge back into traffic going at highway speeds may be more dangerous than simply having the passenger enter data while the driver concentrates on driving.
On Toyota Prius with model years 2005 and earlier, it is possible to override this lock-out by pressing the onscreen volume button in the menu and then tapping the upper left, lower left, upper left, lower left corners of the screen in that order. Once that is done correctly a new menu will appear and all you have to do is hold down the override button until it beeps.{{Fact|date=May 2008}} However, in 2007, the override was removed for liability reasons<ref name="lexusover">{{cite web |title=When is an Upgrade *not* an upgrade? When it comes from Lexus |publisher=LexusOverride.com |url=http://www.lexusoverride.com |accessdate=2008-05-30}}</ref>.
Some consumers<ref name="lexusover"/> are attempting to start a petition to have the override functionality restored, many of them claiming that they were falsely informed that the override functionality was still present and that they would not have purchased the vehicle if they knew of this limitation.
===Durability===
====Traction control failure====
A website that reports user complaints, [[ConsumerAffairs.com]]{{dubious}}, in the United States issued a warning in January 2008 that; ''" The Prius traction control system can fail to operate properly on a snowy road"'', and that the ''"TRAC system is still inadequate on slippery inclines."''<ref>[http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2008/01/prius_winter.html Winter Weather Warning for Prius Drivers] Consumer Affairs [[January 29]], [[2008]]</ref> A representative for Toyota named Bill Kwon stated in 2007 that the traction control system in the Prius could affect performance in snow conditions{{Fact|date=June 2008}}.
====Aging====
The ConsumerAffairs.com{{dubious}} website has also reported that "Prius hybrid technology is not aging well", having received complaints of numerous incidences of failed components related to the technology implemented in the Prius, as the first version were approaching 8 years old and 100,000miles (161,000km).<ref name="ca_20070607"/>
==Safety==
{{Unreferencedsection|date=July 2008}}
* Driver and front-passenger Advanced [[Airbag]] System
* Driver and front-passenger front seat-mounted side [[airbag]]s and front to rear side curtain [[airbag]]s
* [[Anti-lock Braking System |Anti-Lock Brakes]] (ABS) with [[Electronic brakeforce distribution]] (EBD) and [[Brake Assist]]
* [[Traction Control]] (TRAC)
* [[Immobiliser|Engine immobilizer]]
* Rear-seat [[Infant car seat|Child Restraint System]] (CRS) lower anchors and top tether brackets ([[LATCH]])
* 3-point front outboard seatbelts
* Front seatbelt pretensioners with force limiters
'''Optional Equipment'''
* [[Tire pressure monitoring system#Direct|Direct Tire Pressure Monitor System]]
* [[Vehicle Stability Control]] (VSC)
==Government and corporate incentives==
===Government incentives===
A number of governments have incentives that are intended to encourage hybrid car sales. In Belgium, the national government offers reductions in the purchase price of up to 15% for buying cars that have lower CO<sub>2</sub> exhaust.<ref> [https://portal.health.fgov.be/portal/page?_pageid=56,547250&_dad=portal&_schema=PORTAL Less poluting cars, something we all work for] (government site)</ref>
The federal government in Canada offers to those who buy or lease hybrid cars a rebate.<ref>[http://www.ecoaction.gc.ca/ecotransport/ecoauto-eng.cfm ecoACTION - ecoTRANSPORT - ecoAUTO Rebate Program<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref> Some provincial governments also offer incentives such as in British Columbia,<ref>[http://www.sbr.gov.bc.ca/documents_library/bulletins/sst_087.pdf Alternative Fuel Vehicles - Calculating the Tax Reduction: Social Service Tax Act] Ministry of Small Business and Revenue, British Columbia, revised March 2007. Retrieved on [[2007]]-[[08-12]].</ref> Manitoba,<ref>[http://news.gov.mb.ca/news/index.html?archive=week&item=1132 ''Drive Green, Save $2,000: Rondeau; Rebates Now Available To Manitobans Who Purchase A Hybrid Electric Vehicle''] (Press release). Government of Manitoba, [[2007]]-[[02-05]]. Retrieved on [[2007]]-[[08-12]].</ref> Quebec,<ref>[http://www.revenu.gouv.qc.ca/eng/particulier/taxes/remboursement/remb_part_tvq_vehicule_hybride.asp QST rebate for hybrid vehicles] Ministère du Revenu du Québec. Retrieved on [[2007]]-[[08-12]].</ref> Ontario,<ref>[http://www.rev.gov.on.ca/english/refund/vpaf/ Refunds and Rebates: Vehicles Powered by Alternative Fuels] Ministry of Revenue, Government of Ontario [[2007]]-[[07-23]]. Retrieved on [[2007]]-[[08-12]].</ref> and Prince Edward Island.<ref>[http://www.irac.pe.ca/document.aspx?content=legislation/RevenueTaxAct-Regulations.asp Chapter R-14 Revenue Tax Act Regulations]. Regulatory & Appeals Commission, Prince Edward Island, [[2007]]-[[06-20]]. Retrieved on [[2007]]-[[08-12]]</ref>
In the United Kingdom, incentives are mostly parking-related. Parking incentives exists in [[London Borough of Richmond upon Thames|Richmond upon Thames]] (south west London)<ref>[http://www.richmond.gov.uk/doc_vehicle_banding_explained.pdf Vehicle Banding Explained]. London Borough of Richmond upon Thames, April 2007. Retrieved on [[2007]]-[[08-12]].</ref>,
[[Westminster]] (Central London) for resident parking permits<ref>[http://www.westminster.gov.uk/transportandstreets/parking/wheretopark/vehicletype/electric.cfm Transport and Streets: Eco Vehicles]. (Government website). City of Westminster. Retrieved on [[2007]]-[[08-11]].</ref>, [[Winchester]] (now discontinued)<ref>[http://www.winchestermiracles.org/wp06-ParkingDiscounts.doc Integrated pricing strategies (for parking)] Winchester, April 2006. Retrieved on [[2007]]-[[08-11]].</ref><ref>[http://www.civitas-initiative.org/measure_sheet.phtml?lan=en&id=48 Integrated pricing strategies in Winchester]. CIVITIS Initiative. [[2007]]-[[07-27]]. Retrieved on [[2007]]-[[08-11]].</ref><ref>[http://www.winchester.gov.uk/TransportAndStreets/Parking/CarParks-Council/CarParkCharges/General.asp?id=SX9452-A781C479&cat=8206 Discounted Season Tickets - Environmentally Friendly Vehicles] Winchester City Council. [[2007]]-[[05-23]]. Retrieved on [[2007]]-[[08-11]].</ref>, Manchester, and [[Brighton]] has similar plans.<ref name="delgado" /> Drivers in London can register for an exemption from the £8 daily [[London congestion charge|congestion charge]] <ref>[http://www.toyota.co.uk/cgi-bin/toyota/bv/frame_start.jsp?id=PS2_congcharge Avoid congestion charging in London with Toyota Prius] Toyota GB. Retrieved on [[2007]]-[[08-12]].</ref><ref name="delgado">Delgado, Martin. [http://www.dailymail.co.uk/pages/live/articles/news/news.html?in_article_id=463952&in_page_id=1770 Koo Stark's fury over £7,500 in parking fines - for eco-car she thought was exempt]. (News website). Daily Mail, [[2007]]-[[06-23]].</ref><ref>[http://www.cclondon.com/downloads/Drivers.pdf Congestion Charging | Transport for London<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref> Some of the incentives in the United Kingdom have been criticized in the press given that non-hybrid cars, some of which have better fuel economy, are not afforded the same incentives.<ref>{{cite news
|title=VW's BlueMotion green badge
|author=Andrew English
|publisher=The Daily Telegraph
|date=2007-05-07
|url=http://www.telegraph.co.uk/earth/main.jhtml?xml=/earth/2007/05/07/eavw07.xml}}</ref><ref>[http://www.tfl.gov.uk/corporate/projectsandschemes/roadsandpublicspaces/5667.aspx Roads and Public Places]</ref>
In the United States, the federal government offers a tax credit to purchasers until a certain number of cars has been sold by a manufacturer. This has ranged from US$787 to $3,150, which expired in 2007 for hybrids sold by Toyota.<ref>{{cite web
|title=Additional Toyota and Lexus Vehicles Certified for the Energy Tax Credit
|url=http://www.irs.gov/newsroom/article/0,,id=163103,00.html}}</ref> Some state governments, including Colorado<ref>{{cite web
|url=http://www.revenue.state.co.us/fyi/html/income09.html
|title=FYI Income 9: Alternative Fuel Income Tax Credits
|publisher=Colorado Department of Revenue, Taxpayer Service Division}}</ref>, [[Connecticut]]<ref>[http://www.ct.gov/drs/cwp/view.asp?Q=284656&A=1436 Exemption for Hybrid Vehicles] (Website). State of Connecticut Department of Revenue Services. Retireved on [[2007]]-[[08-11]].</ref>, [[Illinois]]<ref>{{cite web
|title=State offers incentives to hybrid vehicle buyers
|publisher=The Southern
|url=http://www.thesouthern.com/articles/2007/07/18/top/20864872.txt}}</ref> offer tax incentives. Hybrid engine automobiles are exempt from [[high-occupancy vehicle lane]] restrictions in some U.S. states.<ref>{{cite web
|title=Virginia DMV
|url=http://www.dmvnow.com/webdoc/general/news/news.asp?id=4865}}</ref>) California (currently until [[January 1]], [[2011]].<ref>{{cite web
|title=AB 2600 Assembly Bill
|url=http://www.leginfo.ca.gov/pub/05-06/bill/asm/ab_2551-2600/ab_2600_bill_20060929_chaptered.html}}</ref><ref>{{cite web
|title=AZ Central
|url=http://www.azcentral.com/news/articles/0209hybrids0209online.html}}</ref> Los Angeles and San Jose, California had exempted hybrid cars from paying for street parking.<ref>{{cite web
|year=April, 2003
|url=http://www.sanjoseca.gov/transportation/whatsnew/hybrid/index.htm
|title=Hybrid Program Free Parking
|work=From City of San Jose Website}}</ref><ref>{{cite web
|year=June, 2006
|url=http://www.lacity.org/LADOT/FreePark.htm
|title=Free Parking Info
|work=From City of Los Angeles Website}}</ref> [[New York State]] offers a special "green" version of their E-Z-Pass toll payment tag for Prius owners who use the [[NYS Thruway]] system, which gives the owners a 10% discount on tolls. Also, the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey offers their "green E-Z-Pass" to Prius owners, who pay $4 instead of $8 to use all the bridges and tunnels between New York and New Jersey, except in rush hours. But it is better to get the NYS Thruway green pass, since the NYS Thruway green pass allows the user to get the Port Authority Bridges and Tunnels discount, while the Port Authority Green Pass does not allow the user to get the NYS Thruway discount. (Both the Port Authority and NYS Thruway green E-Z-Passes are issued by New York State E-Z-Pass Service Centers, but users need to make sure they are issued a NYS Thruway green E-Z-Pass if they want to use both discounts.)
In the Netherlands, the government has lowered the tax for cars with CO<sub>2</sub> emissions below a certain level (such as the Prius) to 14%. The tax on all other class cars has been raised from 22 to 25%. As a result, in the month January alone, more than 1800 cars have been sold. The importer has already indicated that he can no longer meet the demand for the year 2008.
In Sweden, private purchasers of the Prius (or any other vehicle in the environmentally less destructive class) are awarded SEK 10,000 (roughly USD 1700, €1100) after six months of ownership, in order to stimulate sales and use of such vehicles. The subsidy program has been very successful.
===Corporate Incentives===
Several U.S. companies offer employees incentives.
[[Bank of America]] will reimburse $3000 on the purchase of new hybrid vehicles to full- and part-time associates working more than 20 hours per week.<ref name=hybridcarsci>[http://www.hybridcars.com/corporate-incentives.html Corporate Incentives] (Website). Hybridcars.com. Retrieved on [[2007]]-[[08-11]].</ref> [[Google]],<ref>[http://www.businessweek.com/magazine/content/07_32/b4045417.htm "Q&A with Google's VP of Marketing"] ''BusinessWeek Online'', [[2007]]-[[08-06]]. Retrieved on [[2007]]-[[08-12]].</ref> software company [[Hyperion Solutions]],<ref>{{cite web
|year=November, 2004
|url=http://www.hyperion.com/driveclean/
|title=Details of Hyperion Solutions' Drive Clean Program
|work=Hyperion Solutions
|accessdate=January 12
|accessyear=2007}}</ref> and
organic food and drink producer [[Clif Bar|Clif Bar & Co]]<ref name="hybridcarsci" /><sup>[[Wikipedia:Footnotes|[broken footnote]]]</sup>
offer employees a $5000 credit toward their purchase of certain hybrid vehicles including the Prius. Integrated Archive Systems, a Palo Alto IT company, offers a $10,000 subsidy toward the purchase of hybrid vehicles to full-time employees employed more than one year.<ref name="hybridcarsci" /><sup>[[Wikipedia:Footnotes|[broken footnote]]]</sup> Clothing companies [[The Timberland Company|Timberland]] and [[Patagonia (clothing)|Patagonia]], law firm [[DLA Piper]], non-profit [[American Jewish Committee]], software publisher Topics Entertainment, and research firm ABR, Inc. are among companies offering eligible employees significant discounts on certain hybrid vehicles including the Prius.<ref name="hybridcarsci" /><sup>[[Wikipedia:Footnotes|[broken footnote]]]</sup>
[[Travelers Companies]], a large insurance company, offers hybrid owners a 10% discount on auto insurance in most states.<ref>[http://www.coolmayors.com/common/news/reports/detail.cfm?Classification=report&QID=3465&ClientID=11061&BrowseFlag=1&Keyword=&StartRow=1&TopicID=314 Cool Mayors for Climate Protection - Global Warming: More Than the Environment<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref> The [[Farmers Insurance Group]] offers a similar discount of up to 10% in most states.<ref name="hybridcarsci" /><sup>[[Wikipedia:Footnotes|[broken footnote]]]</sup>
==Production And Sales==
[[Image:2006 Toyota Prius Car Share.jpg|thumb|200px|2006 Toyota Prius used by a car share agency]]
{{See|Automotive market}}
=== Production ===
Prius production will begin in the United States in late 2010 at a brand-new plant currently under construction in [[Blue Springs, Mississippi]]. This step will allow Toyota to better respond to increased demand for [[hybrid electric vehicle]]s. <ref>http://blog.toyota.com/2008/07/prius-productio.html</ref> .
=== Sales ===
Toyota announced on June 7, 2007 that it had sold 1 million hybrid vehicles globally, and that of those 757,600 were Prius.<ref>{{cite press release |title=Toyota Worldwide Hybrid Sales Top 1 Million Units |date=[[2007-06-07]] |publisher=Toyota Motor Corporation |url=http://www.toyota.co.jp/en/news/07/0607.html |accessdate=2008-05-29}}</ref> Nearly 345,000 of the first 1 million hybrid cars made by Toyota were sold in Japan.<ref name="ca_20070607">{{cite web |title=Sales Top 1 Million but Some Owners Find Prius Doesn't Age Well |author=Joe Benton |date=[[2007-06-07]] |url=http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2007/06/prius_aging.html |publisher=ConsumerAffairs.com |accessdate=2008-05-29}}</ref> In May 2008, Toyota announced that its worldwide cumulative sales of the Prius had passed the 1 million mark. The Prius, which is sold in more than 40 countries and regions, has its largest markets in Japan and North America. Nearly 60% of all Prius sales have been in North America, where 183,800 vehicles were sold in 2007.<ref name="tmc_20080515"/> That sales pace has accelerated in early 2008, with 66,100 vehicles sold in North America in the first four months, a rate that would result in nearly 200,000 sales if continued through the entire year.{{Fact|date=May 2008}} In fact, Toyota sold 21,757 Prius hybrids in the United States in April, setting a record for April sales and making the Prius the third most popular vehicle in the Toyota line, trailing the Corolla and the Camry.{{Fact|date=May 2008}}
U.S. sales of the Prius began in August 2000. By 2001 sales there totaled 15,556, and by 2002 had reached 20,119.<ref>{{cite web
|url=http://www.autofieldguide.com/articles/100302.html
|title=The Toyota Prius: The Most Important '04 Model? Yes.
|publisher=Automotive Design and Production}}</ref> In 2004 sales there were 53,991, and doubled in 2005 to 107,897, about 60% of the world total of 180,000.<ref>{{cite web
|url = http://money.cnn.com/magazines/fortune/fortune_archive/2006/03/06/8370702
|title=The Birth of the Prius
|date=[[2006-02-24]]
|publisher=CNN Money}}</ref> By [[2006-06-07]] 266,212 Prius had been sold in the U.S., and accounted for 40% of the hybrid market there in 2006.<ref>{{cite web
|title=Market Scan: Honda Pulls Plug On Accord Hybrid
|date=[[2007-06-06]]
|url=http://www.forbes.com/2007/06/06/honda-accord-hybrid-markets-equity-cx_vk_0606markets1.html?partner=autos_newsletter
|publisher=Forbes}}</ref> As of November 2007 Toyota has sold 510,325 Prius in the US since its initial launch in 2000.
Prius gas-electric hybrid mid-size sedan reported sales of 14,212 units for a best-ever December and best-ever year-end sales of 181,221 units, up 68.9 percent over 2006.<ref>http://www.toyota.com/about/news/corporate/2008/01/03-1-sales.html</ref>
The surge in popularity for [[small car]]s and fuel-efficient hybrids in the automotive market has left Toyota Motor Corp facing an unusual problem: deepening shortages of the Prius <ref>http://planetark.com/dailynewsstory.cfm/newsid/49151/story.htm</ref> .
==Aftermarket products==
===EV mode===
When the vehicle is turned-on with the "start" button, it is ready to drive immediately with the electric motor, while electric pumps warm the engine with previously saved hot engine coolant, before the internal combustion engine is started. The delay between starting the car and starting the internal combustion engine is approximately seven seconds. The Asian and European versions of this vehicle provide a button labeled "EV" that maintains Electric Vehicle mode after start up, under most low-load driving conditions. This permits driving with low noise and no fuel consumption, and is advertised as a "quiet" option for short journeys, for example in residential areas at night, in the Asia manual. The car automatically reverts to normal mode if the battery becomes exhausted. The North American model does not have the "EV" button, although the "EV" mode is still supported internally by the Prius Hybrid Vehicle management computer. The PRIUS+ Project<ref name="cci">{{cite web |title=How CalCars Green-Tuned an '04 Prius into a PRIUS+ Plug-In Hybrid! |publisher=California Cars Initiative |work=CalCars |url=http://www.calcars.org/priusplus.html |accessdate=2008-05-30}}</ref> offers conversion instructions for ''[[Do it yourself|do-it-yourself]]ers'' who wish to enable the button. Toyota has now received government approval to run on public roads for tests. Researchers at the Advanced Power and Energy Program at the [[University of California, Irvine]] and the [[Institute of Transportation Studies]] at the [[University of California, Berkeley]] will begin testing two specially made Prius and analyze driver behavior, study air quality and energy use.<ref>{{Citation
| author =The Boston Globe
| author-link =http://www.boston.com/business/globe/articles/2007/07/26/toyota_plug_in_hybrid_hits_the_road/
| title =Toyota plug-in hybrid hits the road
| date= [[July 26]]
| year =2007
| url =http://www.boston.com/business/globe/articles/2007/07/26/toyota_plug_in_hybrid_hits_the_road/
| accessdate =2007-08-03 }}</ref> However, electric-only driving range remains limited to around seven miles (eleven kilometers) per charge in all-electric mode at up to 100 kilometers per hour (62 miles per hour).<ref>{{Citation
| last =France-Presse
| first =Agence
| author-link =http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/breakingnews/world/view_article.php?article_id=79221
| title =Toyota to test electric plug-in hybrid Prius cars
| date= [[July 28]]
| year =2007
| url =http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/breakingnews/world/view_article.php?article_id=79221
| accessdate =2007-08-03 }}</ref> No date has been set for public release of EV mode, and it will not be available to the public until a great deal of additional research has been done.
===Plug-in===
{{main|Plug-in hybrid}}
Plug-in hybrids use a larger battery pack that is recharged from external sources in order to further reduce fuel consumption. The batteries in a production PHEV will be built to handle deeper discharge cycles without loss of lifespan such as those in the [[Toyota RAV4 EV]]. Operation of the vehicle will be very similar to a normal hybrid, except that the electric operation will be more prevalent. In the case of a Prius PHEV, on the highway, the gasoline engine will operate as before, leaving the car with the same ability to accelerate and use freeways. Current converted Prius also operate in a high speed [[blended mode]] which can reduce but not eliminate fuel consumption on the freeway. When driving in slower conditions or with light loads, the batteries will be used first in a [[charge-depleting]] mode, allowing moderate commutes at low speeds (particularly under 41 mph/65 km/h) to be driven entirely on electricity. Once the batteries have been sufficiently discharged the car will automatically revert back to the [[charge-sustaining]] mode of the current stock Prius.
Evolving from the button project, The California Cars Initiative (CalCars)<ref>{{cite web | title = Plug-In Hybrids Use Cheaper, Cleaner, Domestic Energy | url = http://www.calcars.org}}</ref> converted a Prius in 2004, adding larger batteries and found out how to safely charge the batteries without affecting the hybrid system. Private companies EDrive Systems in the [[United States|USA]] and Amberjac Projects in the [[United Kingdom|UK]] announced plans to sell conversion kits in 2006 (pushed back to 2007).{{Fact|date=August 2007}} The most recent versions, such as from OEMTek.com<ref>{{cite web|title=OEMTek PHEV conversion|url=http://www.oemtek.com/}}</ref> in California use a new, patented advanced safe-format Lithium Battery from Valence Technology called Saphion. Using the advanced batteries increases the final price by an estimated US$12,000. The energy density and far more efficient utilization of these batteries provide around 20x the available power of the standard NiMH battery pack but at only double the weight. Tests show it capable of achieving > 30 miles (50 km) in all electric mode at speeds below 34 mph (55 km/h). The internal combustion engine starts only at higher speeds or when extra acceleration is needed. Fuel economy is improved to {{mpg|100}} - {{mpg|500}} <ref>{{cite web | title = Plug-in Hybrid Technology Kits Released |url = http://www.businessweek.com/autos/content/mar2006/bw20060303_978539.htm?chan=autos_hybrids+index+page_technology}}</ref> depending on driving conditions. City driving may be possible without using the ICE at all, eliminating the use of almost all liquid fuel in exchange for electrical energy.
PriusPlus<ref name="cci"/> is a similar project evolving from CalCars, using lead-acid batteries and a do-it-yourself kit. This conversion gives a car that has {{mpg|100}} under normal driving conditions. All-electric mode can be used for 10–12 miles in street driving. In January 2007 issue of [[IEEE Spectrum]], CalCars lead technical engineer, Ron Gremban, notes that drivers installing the CalCars Prius+ kit shouldn’t expect a 'positive financial payback.'<ref>{{cite web | title = You Tell Us: The Home Plug-In Hybrid Kit |url = http://www.spectrum.ieee.org/jan07/4824}}</ref> The kit adds {{convert|135|kg|lb|abbr=on}} to the car's weight, and increases efficiency. The lead-acid battery pack performance is reduced in cold weather, has a limited life of about 400 deep discharges, and must be recharged within a day to maintain this lifespan. The hope is, by the time the batteries need replacing, a better option will be on the market at a comparable price.
However, under certain conditions, an Argonne National Lab study<ref>[http://www.transportation.anl.gov/pdfs/HV/399.pdf]</ref> showed that the Prius' blended power drivetrain made an extremely poor base for a plug-in hybrid. Specifically, with the increased use of electric power, and the internal combustion engine activating less frequently, the [[catalytic converter]] never warmed up properly. As a result, the test cars' emissions actually increased over the stock version. The same study also tested a simpler series hybrid based on a Renault Kangoo, but not as rigorously. Nonetheless, some argue that a more capable series configuration would be a better base for a PHEV than HSD because the larger electric traction motor could handle the full range of speeds, thus conferring true all-electric capabilities and completely displacing petroleum use even at highway speeds. Also, while under charge-sustaining mode the internal combustion engine would act as a continuously-running [[auxiliary power unit]], and would not suffer the same frequent cold-start problems inherent to the Prius design.
Additionally, a study conducted by the aforementioned CalCars concluded that a plug-in Prius would only make technological sense when paired with a relatively small battery pack. As batteries grow more capacious and petroleum displacement becomes a priority over baseline efficiency, the authors wrote, the more a series design is likely to become the rational choice.<ref>[http://www.greencarcongress.com/2008/03/calcars-weighs.html]</ref>
Plug in upgrades are available to the general public from [[Hymotion]], from 6 certified installers nationwide at a cost of $9995. Hymotion claims up to 100MPG for the first 40 miles under mostly electric power, and 4.5 hour recharge time for its [[A123 Systems]] [[Lithium iron phosphate]] battery.<ref>http://www.a123systems.com/hymotion/technology</ref>
==Future and Plug-in version==
The [[Toyota|Toyota Motor Corporation]] plans on developing three different versions, starting in 2009.<ref>{{cite web
|url = http://www.thetorquereport.com/2007/05/next_generation_2009_toyota_pr.html
|title=Three Versions
|date=[[2007-07-24]]
|publisher=Torqereport}}</ref> The 2009 Prius will have only minor changes and be ready for first delivery in October of 2008.<ref>http://www.donlen.com/buildstart_toyota.html</ref>
The 2010 Prius details are rumored to be announced in January 2009 and available for delivery in May 2009.<ref>http://www.edmunds.com/insideline/do/Features/articleId=126123</ref><ref>http://www.roadandtrack.com/article.asp?section_id=34&article_id=6800</ref> <ref>http://www.usnews.com/articles/business/economy/2008/05/27/a-prius-that-can-power-your-house.html</ref>
Toyota CEO [[Katsuaki Watanabe]] said in a [[February 16]], [[2007]] interview that Toyota was "aiming at reducing, by half, both size and cost of the [[Hybrid Synergy Drive#Third generation|third-generation hybrid system]]."<ref>{{cite web | title = Toyota's Bid for a Better Battery | url = http://www.businessweek.com/magazine/content/07_10/b4024075.htm}}</ref>
A Toyota spokesman said that future Prius research "...is broad-reaching and being carried out from various angles."<ref>[http://www.thecarconnection.com/index.asp?DID=RSS&n=274&sid=274&article=12471 Li-ion Not Ready for Prius Car Reviews - The Car Connection<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref>
Toyota is [[road test]]ing [[prototype]] [[plug-in hybrid]] vehicles (called '''Toyota Plug-in HV''').<ref>[http://www.toyota.co.jp/en/tech/environment/phv/conference/ TOYOTA: Plug-in Hybrid Vehicle<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref><ref>[http://www.calcars.org/calcars-news/798.html Report Toyota PHEV Road Test in Japan + Possible Unveiling in Fall<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref>
Ten hydrogen powered Prius cars were delivered in November 2007 to Vistorka, a consortium of companies in Iceland.<ref> [http://www.reuters.com/article/companyNewsAndPR/idUSL28874720071128 Iceland Opens Hydrogen Filling Station to the Public], Reuters, [[November 28]], [[2007]]. Retrieved [[2007-12-18]].</ref>
[[Toyota Motor|Toyota]] plans to install a [[solar power generation system]] on the roof of its Prius, when the vehicle goes through a complete [[wikt:makeover|makeover]] as early as 2009 spring <ref>http://www.marketwatch.com/news/story/toyota-equip-prius-solar-panels/story.aspx?guid=%7BA5960A1A%2DE176%2D4A08%2D952C%2D4BC4A0A69284%7D&dist=msr_2</ref>. The report states that the feature will be available on some high-end models. Some media reports have incorrectly reported that the panels will provide 2 to 5 [[kilowatts]] of [[electricity]] to power the [[air conditioning]]. <ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.chicagotribune.com/features/lifestyle/green/chi-ap-japan-toyota,0,7072609.story | title="Report: Toyota plans solar AC for Prius" | author=Kageyama, Yuri | publisher=Associated Press | date=2008-07-07 | accessdate=2008-07-08}}</ref> In actuality, assuming reasonably-priced and commonly-used photovoltaic material, numerous engineers have calculated that the peak power available from the Prius rooftop covered completely in solar cells is approximately 250 watts. The "2 to 5 kilowatts" is likely a misquotation of the actual power consumed by the air conditioner compressor.
Toyota has announced that the Prius will be manufactured in the US in the new [[Blue Springs, Mississippi]] plant in 2010 <ref>http://www.sunherald.com/newsupdates/story/676148.html</ref>
==Awards==
*1997–98 Car of the Year Japan<ref>{{cite web | title = Car of the year Japan | url = http://www.jcoty.org}}</ref>
*2003 ''[[Scientific American]]'' names [[Toyota Motor Corporation]] as "Business Leader of the Year" ("Scientific American 50"; December, 2003) for its singular accomplishment in the commercialization of affordable hybrid cars.
* ''[[Motor Trend]]'' [[Motor Trend Car of the Year|Car of the Year]] 2004<ref name="mtm"/>
* ''[[Car and Driver]]'' magazine's [[Car and Driver Ten Best|Ten Best list]] for 2004.
* [[North American Car of the Year]] award for 2004. Nominated in 2001.
* [[International Engine of the Year]] for 2004.
* "Best Engineered Vehicle for 2004" by [[Society of Automotive Engineers|SAE]]'s ''Automotive Engineering International'' magazine.<ref>{{cite web | title = 'Best Engineered Vehicle for 2004'| url = http://www.sae.org/news/releases/prius2004.htm}}</ref>
* 2005 [[European Car of the Year]] (406 points, ahead of [[Citroën C4]] with 267 points and [[Ford Focus (International)|Ford Focus II]] with 228).<ref>{{cite web | title = Toyota Prius is 2005 European Car of the Year | url = http://www.di-ve.com/dive/portal/portal.jhtml?id=161929&pid=null}}</ref>
*2006 EnerGuide Award (Midsize)<ref>{{cite web | title = 2007 EnerGuide Awards | url = http://www.toyota.ca/NWS/english/energuide/energuide_e.html}}</ref>
*2006 Intellichoice Best Overall Value of the Year, Midsize <ref>{{cite web | title = 2006 Toyota Prius | url = http://www.intellichoice.com/reports/vehicleReport/vehicle_nmb/19025/type/used/year/2006/make/Toyota/model/Prius}}</ref>
*2007 Intellichoice Best in Class Winner :Best Retained Value, Lowest Fuel, Lowest Operating Costs, Lowest Ownership Costs<ref>{{cite web | title = 2007 Toyota Prius | url = http://www.intellichoice.com/reports/vehicleReport/vehicle_nmb/19453/section/reviews/type/new/year/2007/make/Toyota/model/Prius/sub/intro }}</ref>
*Swiss government named Toyota Prius the world's greenest car in a draft study of over 6,000 cars.<ref>{{cite web | title = Swiss name Toyota's Prius world's greenest car | url = http://news.yahoo.com/s/nm/20070727/sc_nm/cars_pollution_dc}}</ref>
*Green Engine of the Year 2008 from [[International Engine of the Year|International Engine of the Year Awards]].<ref>{{cite news |title=GREEN ENGINE OF THE YEAR 2008|date=[[2008-06-30]] |publisher=UKIP Media & Events |work=International engine of the year awards |url=http://www.ukipme.com/engineoftheyear/winners_08/green.html |accessdate=2008-06-30}}</ref>
*2008 Nominated for [http://www.whatgreencar.com WhatGreenCar.com] Car of the Year Awards 2008, shortlisted for the UK's top [[Green Car Awards|Green Car Awards]]
==See also==
{{wikibooks|Toyota Prius FAQ}}
{{wikibooks|Toyota Prius driving tricks}}
{{wikibooks|Conversion of Toyota Prius}}
{{commonscat|Toyota Prius}}
*[[Comparison of Toyota hybrids]]
*[[List of hybrid vehicles]]
*[[Fuel economy-maximizing behaviors]]
*[[Honda Civic Hybrid]]
*[[Hybrid Synergy Drive]]
*[[Hypermiler|Hypermiler Driving - Drivers who exceed EPA est MPG]]
*[[Hybrid electric vehicle]]
*[[Plug-in hybrid electric vehicle]]
*[[Toyota Camry Hybrid]]
*[[Toyota eCom]]
*[[ACT Hybrid Vehicle Authority]]
==Notes and references==
{{reflist|3}}
==External links==
<!-- Discuss adding links that aren't about the Toyota Prius in the discussion page. Why you think they are important, otherwise they will be deleted. -->
* [http://www.toyota.co.jp/worldwide/toyota/index.html Official Toyota worldwide website]
*{{dmoz|/Recreation/Autos/Makes_and_Models/Toyota/Prius|Toyota Prius}}
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{{Modern North American Toyota vehicles}}
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