Finally, after months of teasing, inside sources were able to confirm the name of the Toyota Prius MPV (multi-purpose vehicle). It seems the compact Prius minivan is in the final stages of development and will be wearing the “Alpha” badge. The model will be the first hybrid in the Prius lineup to adopt lithium-ion batteries when it hits markets in March 2011.
Furthermore, the same sources indicated that the Toyota Prius Alpha MPV will be built on the current Prius sedan platform and will get a third row, which means the overall length of the Alpha will be extended by 300m (one foot) and the wheelbase will be increased by 20mm (under an inch).
The Prius Alpha will be a 7-seater but a shorter, 5-seater version is also in the works and it is rumored to look similar to the Hybrid-X concept from 2007. Moreover, this variant will reportedly incorporate nickel-hydride batteries to save cost.
The new MPV will share the same 1.8-litre Atkinson-cycle petrol engine and THSII hybrid system fitted on the Prius. However, the new model's gasoline engine will generate 98 horsepower while the electric motor is expected to produce 81 horsepower. The maximum combined power output will be 135 horsepower.
Finally, the fuel economy of the Alpha Prius will likely be slightly reduced than the current Prius sedan's 50 mpg combined, due to the its extra size and weight.
Pricing will be announced in late 2010, though it is also rumored it will clearly eliminate many the current seven-seater minivans on the market. However, Honda is most likely to fight hard for its position on the market.
autoevolution has tested the Toyota Prius Hybrid. You can check out the review here.
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