Based on Toyota’s Iconic Human-tech design philosophy of fusing emotional and rational vehicle factors, the exterior of the all-new Prius hints at the car’s advanced functions while also expressing its fun-to-drive spirit, creating an instant and lasting impression.
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When the 2016 Toyota Prius was unveiled last month, we saw in full the bold, avant-garde styling, but little in the way of actual specifications regarding the revamped powertrain.
The new Prius’ center of gravity is lower than the current model, resulting in exceptional stability and minimal sway during driving. Positioned under the rear seats, these high-performance, compact batteries contribute to improvements in fuel efficiency. European/UK homologated emissions and fuel consumption data will be announced later.
All the engineering improvements are complemented by an increase of more than 60 percent in body torsional rigidity through the use of Laser Screw Welding, structural adhesives and uniquely shaped frame structures.
As Toyota mentioned at the model’s debut, the new engine has a maximum thermal efficiency of 40 percent thanks to a large-volume exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) system and improvements in combustion efficiency.
The transaxle and motor have been redesigned, delivering a reduction in their combined weight. Notably there is about a 20 per cent reduction in mechanical losses through friction compared to the previous model.
The two all-new electric motors are, strangely enough, also less powerful than the ones that came before. The planetary gear arrangement in the reduction gear has been replaced with parallel gears, which further helps loss reduction. While the batteries use established technology, Toyota has succeeded in increasing their energy density, which means more power can be obtained from a smaller unit. The platform helps to improve driving dynamics, as well as optimise cabin space and provide up to 502 litres of cargo capacity.
The new Prius features a new nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) hybrid battery, considered by Toyota to be the optimum choice to meet market requirements. Passengers enjoy a smooth, comfortable ride, with minimal roll. Cold weather fuel efficiency has also been improved by introducing an engine coolant selector valve and adding a new system which accelerates engine heating. High-tensile-strength steel content, utilising hot-stamped materials, has also been increased from 3% on the previous model to 19%.
Whether Prius can continue to excite consumers would be its test. Optimal use of the battery and electric motor have minimised the “rubber band” feeling when accelerating – the sense of a delay in acceleration when you press the throttle.
Toyota dominates the gasoline-hybrid auto market, manufacturing 8 million of the more than 9 million gasoline-fuelled vehicles on the road globally. Additional systems include a Blind Spot Monitor and Rear Cross Traffic Alert plus a new, intelligent parking sensor system. It will also mitigate damage if contact does occur. Which is why, it says, it rebuilt the Prius from the ground up, “broadening the car’s appeal by overhauling its design, improving performance, and adding personal touches both inside and out”.
Speaking of the inside, the 2016 Toyota Prius gets an improved instrument panel with dual multi-information 4.2-inch color displays.
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The more compact hardware under the bonnet has also allowed its front edge to be lowered by 70mm and the rear, at the bottom of the windshield by 62mm, improving the driver’s forward view.
