Prius C and Prius V to add to Prius Family
Toyota Australia is aiming to expand the Prius family in Australia next year with the launch of two all-new hybrid models.
The two new vehicles being evaluated for the local market will be based on the compact Prius c Concept and versatile Prius v wagon, which were on display at the Australian International Motor Show.
The go-ahead for local sales would see production versions in showrooms during 2012, alongside the regular Prius.
Toyota Australia's senior executive director sales and marketing David Buttner said the two show cars represented new possibilities for adapting hybrid vehicles to meet the needs of diverse lifestyles.
"The Prius family tree is set to grow in Australia, branching out into a modern family with a Prius for everyone," Mr Buttner said.
"The Prius c Concept and Prius v demonstrate Toyota's ability to offer the benefits of Prius in a variety of vehicles to a wider range of customers.
"With fuel prices rising and a growing emphasis on reducing carbon emissions, it's a perfect time to be raising a family."
Mr Buttner said cutting-edge advances made through Toyota's continuous hybrid research had resulted in these new cars that offer outstanding fuel efficiency and environmental performance.
He said the Prius c Concept and Prius v were products of the same culture of innovation that spawned the original Prius, which was launched in Japan 14 years ago and has led to global Prius sales of more than two million.
"We are keen to get the reactions of consumers to these concept cars, with a view to launching the production models next year.
"Only Toyota is making this level of commitment to the environment that reduces our dependency on oil while lowering the cost of motoring."
Mr Buttner said the Prius c Concept is the inspiration for a dynamic vehicle with urban appeal.
"The Prius c Concept anticipates a city-friendly car aimed at young singles and couples who want a fuel-efficient car that is fun to drive and has an impressively spacious interior.
"It will be Toyota's most affordable hybrid and we expect it to offer even better fuel economy and lower emissions than our flagship Prius," he said.
The Prius v - with "v" standing for versatility - heralds a further expansion of the Prius family.
"Prius v is designed for young families and fleet customers looking for a car with added space and flexibility, as well as exceptional fuel economy.
"It offers seating for five with a low, wide-opening hatch that gives access to more cargo space than many small SUVs."
Mr Buttner said the versatility, safety, low emissions and fuel efficiency of Prius v might be offered instead as a seven-seat model, depending on consumer feedback.
The Prius v has the same proven Hybrid Synergy Drive® system as the third-generation Prius, with the advantages of low fuel consumption and low emissions - and it never needs to be recharged.
The show car features sliding second-row seats that allow for easier entry, exit and rear-storage flexibility, with a 45-degree recline for greater comfort. A fold-flat front passenger seat enables extremely long cargo to be transported.
Prius v preliminary specifications
Length |
4,615mm |
||
Width |
1,775mm |
||
Height |
1,575mm |
||
Wheelbase |
2,780mm |
||
Seating capacity |
5 |
||
Hybrid system
|
Engine |
Model |
2ZR-FXE |
Displacement |
1,797cc |
||
Maximum output |
73kW @ 5,200rpm |
||
Maximum torque |
142Nm @ 4,000rpm |
||
Motor |
Maximum output |
60kW |
|
Maximum torque |
207Nm |
||
Complete system |
Maximum output* |
100kW |
|
Battery |
Nickel-metal hydride |
||
Targeted fuel efficiency |
Under 5.0 litres/100km (combined)** |
||
* Using both engine and electric motor power, based on TMC calculations.
** Based on targeted ADR 81/02 combined cycle results. Fuel consumption and emissions will vary depending on driving conditions/style, vehicle conditions and options/accessories.
