Toyota has recently revealed some new details about the 2015 Prius.
Speaking at a press conference in Michigan, Toyota Managing Officer Satoshi Ogiso stated that when the next-generation Prius arrives, it will begin a new era for a broad range of Toyota and Lexus vehicles as it would be the first to introduce a substantially improved family of hybrid powertrains. The executive declined to give details of the specifics but confirmed that the new hybrid powertrains will deliver significantly improved fuel economy in a more compact package that is lighter in weight and also lower in cost.
Prius will ride on the new Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA) that has a lower center of gravity and increased structural rigidity. The car will also come with improved aerodynamics and a more accommodating cabin with significant refinements in design, layout and ease of operation. We can also expect a smaller electric motor, a more efficient petrol engine and improved batteries with a higher energy density.
Ogiso has also revealed that the next-generation Prius Plug-in Hybrid is being developed alongside the standard model. Again he didn’t reveal much but confirmed that the company is developing a new wireless/inductive charging system and is looking for ways to extend the car’s electric-only range.
