The world’s hybrid vehicle leader unveiled the latest addition to its lineup with the 2017 Toyota Prius Prime, the ultimate version of the iconic hybrid. The Prius Prime is a plug-in hybrid with 22 miles of electric range, an ultra-efficient hybrid powertrain, unique styling and features the most advanced technology ever seen in a Prius. The second plug-in in the Prius’ 19-year history, Toyota expects the Prime to boast an MPGe rating of 120 or above, making it one of the most efficient cars on the road. More Pictures Below
To push the vehicle’s “green” status to another level, the Prime equips an 8.8kWh battery pack that can be charged at home in about 5.5 hours with no special equipment. With a 240V source, charging takes less than half that time. This offers an all-electric range of 22 miles, but with the 11.3-gallon fuel tank filled to the brim, Toyota anticipates the Prime will be able to travel more than 600 miles without stopping. Better yet, the sharply-styled four door will be able to cruise at 84 mph without leaving EV mode. Silent freeway cruising, anyone?
Compared to the last generation Prius Plug-in Hybrid, the Prius Prime has double the electric range and is expected to receive a 120 MPGe rating – a 26 percent improvement. In hybrid mode, Toyota is targeting equal or better MPG than the standard Prius. The Toyota Prius Prime can also drive at speeds up to 84 mph in EV mode without ever using any gas. The range-topping hybrid also serves as the launching pad for Toyota’s first dual-motor generator drive system, which uses the electric motor as well as the generator to push the vehicle forward. This allows the car to take advantage of maximum torque off the line, which should make the fuel-sipping icon pretty zippy as well.
An improved powertrain is just the tip of the iceberg though, because the vehicle’s interior has been significantly upgraded over the standard offering. A Tesla-style 11.6-inch HD touchscreen is the centerpiece of the premium cabin, and it comes standard with navigation and offers a variety of eco-centric apps. In addition, a full color head-up display is available as an option. Toyota engineers also worked hard on making the 2017 Prius Prime as light and aerodynamic as possible, with a lower stance, automatic grille shutters and aero glass panel. Weight was saved by using aluminum for the hood and carbon fiber for the rear hatch, which also makes opening and closing it nearly effortless.
In terms of accident mitigation and occupant safety, the Prime offers Toyota’s full Safety Sense suite, which includes Pedestrian Detection with Automatic Braking, Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist, Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, a Blind Spot Monitor, and Rear Cross Traffic Alert.
Pricing data is still under wraps at the time of this writing, but that information should be released closer to the vehicle’s on-sale date in late fall.
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