The New Toyota Prius A Popular Hybrid Car.
The Toyota Prius is still the most popular and best-selling hybrid car in the world today. The release of the Prius in 1997 launched the movement towards hybrids.
The Prius sold very poorly at first, but sales picked up when new models came on the market. In 2003 Toyota came out with their second generation hybrid vehicle making it car of the year according to Motor Trend.
People are buying hybrids not just for environmental and health issues, but also due to soaring gas prices. Prius is the number one choice due to its simplicity and price, however, there are lots more hybrid cars to choose from.
The Toyota Prius’ second generation has improved upon the first one in many important ways. While the first version of the Toyota Prius had excellent fuel efficiency, air conditioning was the sole option available. The second generation was bigger, faster and looked better than its predecessor. It’s the first midsize hatchback sedan on the market which has won many awards.
It employs the Synergy hybrid system used by all of Toyota’s hybrid vehicles. It possesses a 1.5-liter, 4-cylinder engines features intelligent valve timing and an AC synchronous, permanent magnet motor. The horsepower that it contains is 110 horsepower. (gas and electric power combined) and 46 mpg fuel economy (city and highway mileage combined, as rated by EPA).
It also as an electronically controlled continuous variable transmission, anti lock braking system and regenerative breaking. Benefits include 89% less emissions and tax credits.
Power windows, choice of seat covering, micron filter air-conditioners, cruise control, door locks, and keyless remote entry are included as standard features in the second generation Toyota Prius. Switches can be found on the steering wheel that controls the climate, audio and cruise control.
Navigational systems with Bluetooth is one of the options customers have when buying the vehicle. Unlike all most other hybrid cars on the market, you actually push a button to start the ignition instead of turning a key, very cool. An energy motor is mounted on the dashboard which indicates the flow of power between the engine, electric motor and battery pack.
While the second-generation Toyota Prius isn’t the most stylish of the available hybrids, its low price, high miles per gallon, and environmentally minded features combine to make it extremely attractive. The practical alternative choice is the pioneer.
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However, recent advances in battery technology could dramatically change the fate of electric cars. Powering cars with lithium ion batteries is the transformation of their capabilities. Lithium- ion batteries are lighter, require less maintenance and hold his position much longer than the old lead- acid batteries.