So apparently the 2009 Prius is still a second generation model, and the 2010 will be the first third generation Prius. Toyota unveiled it at the Detroit Auto Show and has a website which shows the unveiling video and gives specs and info.
The 2010 Prius will have some cool features like a solar panel on the roof, eco/EV/power drive setting options, etc. But it will still only get an estimated 50 mpg, and no word about a plug-in option. Not terribly impressive.
I would love to get a 2010 Prius but I got a sweet deal now on a 2007 PHEV. I had to jump in while the iron was hot!
I actually very much like the 2010 Prius (G3). It seems to really work on fine tuning essentially the model most of us drive and making a great car even better. Slightly larger ICE engine gives it more horsepower, so it uses less RPMs on the highway - improving mpg. Many of the vehicles component's for the frame, body, and drivetrain are lighter - yet just a strong, or better - up to 20% lighter. Various plastics and seat cushions are more eco-friendly plant based plastics. The body style is very similar, yet updated and more cool. Overall, the car is slightly larger. There is an option for an integrated solar panel in the roof to basically vent the vehicle keeping internal temps more stable, thus reducing need for A/C. Also an option for LED headlamps for additional elec savings.
Oh - and they want to make 400,000 of them worldwide!!!
Only 2 bummers (my opinion :-) - and they are kinda big - is that it is 1) Not a PHEV, and 2) Still using Ni-MH batteries instead of Li-Ion. Both of these features are still down the road - maybe 2012?!?!? I am hopeful.
I think it is still the best hybrid on the road - and key statement is "on the road". If it's price stays in check, it will be the car to beat in the auto market. Toyota also just released their next dedicated hybrid from Lexus... 250h, I think. I am hopeful for the Chevy Volt, but it needs to be good and not too expensive in order to compete!!!
Only 2 bummers (my opinion :-) - and they are kinda big - is that it is 1) Not a PHEV, and 2) Still using Ni-MH batteries instead of Li-Ion. Both of these features are still down the road - maybe 2012?!?!? I am hopeful.
Actually Toyota has said the 2011 Prius (released in late 2010) will be the plug-in hybrid. And they're going to release a few hundred plug-in Priuses this year, though I believe mostly to fleets.
This is great. Toyota, for me, is the leader in green eco-friendly cars
