Prius is World Green Car

The Toyota Prius Plug-in has been declared the 2017 World Green Car, a second consecutive success for Toyota after the Mirai hydrogen fuel cell saloon bagged the title in 2016.

Prius Plug-in was chosen from an initial entry list of 12 new models from around the world. Criteria for the award included tailpipe emissions, fuel consumption and advanced powertrain technology aimed at increasing the vehicle’s environmental performance.

Double the distance

Launched in the UK in March this year, the all-new Prius Plug-in represents a step forward in Toyota’s plug-in hybrid technology. Compared with the first generation model, new Prius Plug-in can cover double the distance – more than 30 miles – and achieve much higher speeds in all-electric, emission-free driving.

Technological breakthroughs include a Dual Motor EV drive system and a Battery Warming system, plus two world firsts: an EV range-extending solar roof and gas-injection heat pump air conditioning.

A solar roof

Developing a technology first seen on the Toyota Auris HSD concept in 2010, the roof can be fitted with a large solar panel to generate electricity to charge the hybrid battery. When the vehicle is parked (but not plugged in to a charging socket), the solar roof charges an intermediate solar battery. When this is fully charged, it will deliver a pumping charge to the main hybrid battery.

UK model range

The new Prius Plug-in is available in the UK in two specifications – Business Edition Plus and Excel.

Toyota Safety Sense will be standard on both versions, including the Pre-Collision System with pedestrian detection, Lane Departure Alert with steering control, Adaptive Cruise Control and Road Sign Assist. Additional safety features include a Blind Spot Monitor and Rear Cross Traffic Alert.

Comfort and convenience items include dual-zone automatic air conditioning, rear passenger footwell heating and Smart Entry and Start.

Pricing

On-the-road prices start at £34,895 for the Business Edition Plus model (£36,395 with the solar roof option) and £37,095 for the Excel. Customers buying a new Prius Plug-in can take advantage of the UK Government’s plug-in car grant, which provides £2,500 towards the vehicle purchase cost.