A single vision led to the creation of the
intelligent technology that powers the Prius:
How can we create a car that does more and
less at the same time?
That offers more performance with less petrol?
That offers more space with less weight?
That gives us more of what we want and takes
less of what the planet has?
Hybrid Synergy Drive is testament to what the
Prius is all about - innovation and leadership that
results in exceptional fuel economy and lower
CO2 emissions without leaving performance and
an exciting, powerful drive behind.
How Hybrid Synergy Drive Works
Take all the advantages of a petrol engine and
* Combined cycle
Model shown: Exclusive model
an electric motor and create a new type of engine
that offers the best of both. That’s the principle
behind Hybrid Synergy Drive. Petrol engines are
inefficient at low speeds. Electric cars have
a limited range due to the battery constraints.
Hybrid Synergy Drive solves this by automatically
switching between the petrol engine and the
electric motor when each is at its best for maximum
performance and efficiency.
Drive with Zero Petrol
At low speeds and in traffic, the Prius is powered
by the electric motor so no petrol is used and the
drive is extremely quiet. Even when the petrol engine
is engaged, the drive is still luxuriously quiet.
The Prius achieved the best fuel efficiency in the world for a mass produced vehicle. The achievement represents part of Toyota
Motor Corporation’s numerous and ongoing efforts to improve fuel efficiency through advanced vehicle development.
The Prius now has a fuel efficiency which exceeds standards by more than 25% and emissions of both nitrogen oxides and
non-methane hydrocarbons have also been reduced to levels 75% lower than its 2005 predecessor.*
*When compared to other gasoline-powered passenger vehicles as of March 2009 as surveyed by Toyota Motor Corporation
and as measured using the 10-15 test cycle of the Japanese Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism (MLIT).
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