The front-wheel drive model will be priced at 4,600,000 yen (RM152,000).
Prius hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) models were launched locally in January this year.
The new Prius PHEV, offered as the Z grade, is a high-performance version equipped with the latest plug-in hybrid system, which combines a compact, high-capacity drive battery, high-output drive motor, and high-efficiency gasoline engine.
Toyota said the main features of the plug-in hybrid system are:
> THE PHEV can cover the majority of daily driving, including commuting and going shopping, using just the electric power from the charged battery. It offers the outstanding quietness and brisk motor-based driving performance of a battery electric vehicle (BEV). On longer drives, such as going on a trip, the engine supplements battery power to serve as a hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) that ensures the cruising range needed for traveling long distances with peace of mind. At the same time, the combination of motor and engine delivers the powerful yet comfortable driving performance unique to PHEV vehicles from the moment the accelerator is pressed.
> A unique PHEV external power supply system enables the car to supply power in a range of scenarios from daily living to emergency situations. This includes an external power supply mode that enables the car battery to provide power during outdoor, leisure, and other activities. There is also an external emergency power supply mode that provides a larger supply of power during blackouts, disasters, and other emergencies by using the engine to generate electricity.
The new Prius PHEV achieves a high level of dynamic performance with a maximum system output of 164 kW (223 PS) of power, which is about double that of the previous model.
The sprint from 0-100kph is achieved in 6.7 seconds.
This model also offers great fuel efficiency of 26.0 km/l with 19-inch tyres and 30.1 km/l with 17-inch tyres. BEV driving distance is 87km with 19-inch tires and 105km with 17-inch tyres, with the 105 km representing an improvement of 75% compared to the previous model.
Plug-in hybrid systems are an important powertrain option providing an immediately accessible pathway towards carbon neutrality. Toyota is working on all-round development of electric vehicles, including PHEVs, and hydrogen engines to achieve carbon neutrality and provide a range
Based on the latest fifth-generation hybrid system, the new Prius PHEV combines a compact, high-capacity drive battery and high-output drive motor in Toyota's first use of its newly developed 2.0-litre plug-in hybrid system.
The new Prius PHEV allow bidirectional charging. It uses electricity stored in the battery to provide an external power supply for outdoor, leisure, and other activities, and an HEV external power supply mode, which can use the car as a power supply during blackouts, disasters, and other emergencies.
In the HEV external power supply mode, electricity is supplied from the battery only until the remaining power falls to a set level, after which the engine starts to supply electricity. With a full battery charge and full tank of gas, this system can provide enough electricity for about five days of use.
It also comes with an external electric power supply attachment as standard so that external power supply is possible with the door windows closed to prevent rain and insects from getting in the car when in use. It is also equipped with a vehicle power connector that can be plugged into the charging inlet of the vehicle for use as an external power socket providing 1,500 W (100 VAC).
The new Prius PHEV is equipped with a second-generation solar charging system as an option.
The solar panels on the roof provide enough power to drive up to 1,250 km per year in BEV mode.
Electric power generated from the solar panel is used to charge the drive battery while parked, with the system not only supplying electricity for driving but for air conditioning and other functions as well. The system also supplies the auxiliary battery system when driving to reduce drive battery consumption.
The new Prius PHEV comes with a "My Room Mode" that lets users enjoy air conditioning and audio systems from the external power source by turning the power switch on during normal charging. Creating a comfortable interior space without running the engine, this feature turns the car interior into an additional room that can be used for teleworking, rest, or any other activities.
The all-new Prius uses the same body design for both the HEV and PHEV models, but with their individuality expressed through small differences in shapes and colour schemes.
The exclusive PHEV design comes with 19-inch aluminum wheels with a sporty and dynamic shape that creates a sense of high-performance driving, and a metallic silver lower grille and smoky gray tail lamps that emphasise technical advancement.
