Japanese auto major Toyota is all set to launch its hybrid car, named Prius in India, in 2009. Hybrid cars are those cars which use both petrol and an electric motor to run. The hybrid vehicles are much more fuel efficient than vehicles which run on conventional fuel (petrol/ diesel). The emission levels are also much less which means they are environment-friendly.
The Prius will be manufactured by the Toyota’s domestic arm. It is all set to come in as a CBU (Completely Built Unit). While the prices are still not clear, it is expected to be priced between Rs.18-22 lakhs.
The Prius is also sometimes referred to as series-parallel because of its capability to run on petrol as well electric power. It is a very advanced vehicle which uses latest state-of-the-art technology. For example, the computer that is present inside the Prius shuts off the engine automatically when the car is stopped, is reversing, or is descending hills/ slopes. This, inturn decreases the fuel consumption in normal city driving. The computer also decides when it should use the engine, motor or both to power the car and recharge the battery to maximize efficiency of the vehicle.
Technical Specifications
Engine
- Standard Engine 1.5L I4
- Standard Transmission VAR Speed Automatic
- Cylinders 4
- Horsepower @RPM 110@5000
- Fuel Economy Cty/Hwy 48 / 45
- Combined Fuel Economy 46
- EPA Class Mid-Size
- Number of Valves 16
- Torque @RPM 1200
Capacity and Volume
- Cargo Volume (EPA) 16 cu. ft.
- Cargo Volume (MFR) 16 cu. ft.
- Fuel Capacity 11.9
- Passenger Volume (EPA) 96
- Passenger Volume (MFR) 96.2 cu. ft.
Brakes, Steering, Suspension and Tires
- Brakes (Front) Disc
- Brakes (Rear) Drum
- Driveline Front Wheel Drive
- Steering Rack & Pinion
- Steering Diameter Left 34.1
- Steering Diameter Right 34.1
- Suspension (Front) Independent
- Suspension (Rear) Semi
- Tire Type Passenger
- Tire Width 185 mm
- Tire Aspect Ratio 65
- Tire Construction Radial
- Tire wheel Diameter 15 in.
- By KOL News , Written on February 4, 2009
