Prius Family grows in Detroit

Toyota has unveiled at the 2011 North American International Auto Show two new members of the Prius family. The new Prius v midsize hybrid-electric vehicle and the Prius c Concept vehicle are the newcomers wearing the Prius name. With these two vehicles Toyota intends to extend the appeal of Prius to customers of different ages and lifestyles.

Although the expanded Prius family will bring a new evolution of vehicles, the new models will keep the same core values of high fuel economy, low emissions, proven technology and environmental stewardship and will be further increasing the introduction of hybrids.

“This is no ordinary family.  It’s a modern family with a Prius for everyone,” said Bob Carter, Toyota Division group vice president and general manager.  “The Prius v is an all-new dedicated hybrid vehicle, and all future Prius family members will be as well.  They will all share common Prius attributes but will be unique, with a special appeal to different buyers.”

Prius v: “v” for Versatility

The “v” on the Prius v nameplate stands for versatility. This new Prius family member has been developed to meet the needs of growing families with active lifestyles. The Prius v shares the current generation Prius’ platform and Hybrid Synergy Drive technology. Although it features a compact exterior, the interior of the new Prius v is very spacious and has over 50-percent more interior cargo space than the current Prius.

Having been designed from head to toe, the new Prius has evolved from the current model rather than being an elongated version. Combining spaciousness, style and aerodynamics, the Prius v features a low 0.29 coefficient of drag.

In terms of exterior styling the Prius v maintains the triangular silhouette symbolic of Prius, with an extended roofline. The evolution from the current Prius can be spotted in the trapezoidal-shaped front features sharp-edged headlamps, wind-slipping aero corners for improved aerodynamics and an enlarged under grille.

Making a first appearance in a Toyota vehicle is the resin Panoramic View moonroof. It features retractable sun shades and provides an open atmosphere in the cabin. When compared to conventional glass roofs of the same size its’ weight has been reduced by 40 percent and it has a better heat insulation performance.

According to Toyota the Prius v will deliver the best fuel economy ratings of any SUV, crossover, or wagon on the market.

The market launch of the 2012 Prius v is scheduled for the end of summer 2011.

Prius c Concept: the small “city” Hybrid

Set to arrive to the market in the first half of 2012 is another new member of the Prius family which will be based on the Prius c Concept. In this case we are looking at a small hybrid car, created for the city.

With c standing for city, this new model wants to appeal young drivers who are searching for an eco-sensitive, high-mileage, fun-to-drive Prius.

Betting on urban appeal Toyota will try to offer the fuel efficiency of Prius to a compact vehicle, while also providing a surprisingly spacious interior. The model will include many advanced technology features, some already offered on the current Prius.

When it arrives to the US in 2012, this new Prius should become the most value-oriented hybrid in this market, delivering the highest mileage of any “cordless” hybrid.