• Howick and Botany Times
Unlike the standard Prius, these cars feature lithium-ion batteries and can be charged with normal household 240 volt power.
The Plug-in Hybrid can travel as an ‘electric only’ vehicle for up to 30 kilometres, achieving highway speeds up to 100 kilometres per hour.
For longer distances, the vehicle functions as a conventional petrol-electric hybrid, which means its use is not constrained by remaining battery power or the lack of a battery-charging infrastructure.
Toyota Japan has placed approximately 600 vehicles with key markets globally through their international distribution network. Customers include government and other public agencies, along with electric power companies and other entities who will gain an introductory taste of eco-cars.
Toyota New Zealand has received three Plug-in Hybrid Prius vehicles. Two will be placed with New Zealand’s largest tertiary institution, Massey University, and the third will be used for detailed analysis by Toyota New Zealand at its National Customer Centre in Palmerston North.
Toyota believes the Plug-in Hybrid provides the most realistic pathway towards the ultimate eco car as pure electric vehicles have a limited range.
The Plug-in Hybrid model can continue to operate even after the ‘electric only’ range is exceeded meaning drivers don’t have to worry about being stranded with a flat battery.
