Japanese manufacturer Toyota announced today that a full-hybrid concept of the Auris is to be unveiled at the 2009 Frankfurt Motor Show (IAA). The new Auris HSD (Hybrid Synergy Drive) is the first step in the Company’s plan of making a hybrid version of every model in its range by the early 2020s.
The greener and more economical version of the five-door hatchback is to be built by Toyota Motor Manufacturing UK (TMUK) at the Burnaston factory, near Derby, with sales scheduled to start during the second half of 2010. The new model will be using the same powertrain as the latest generation Prius, therefore it will sprint from a naught to sixty in around 10 seconds, while emitting under 100g/km of carbon dioxide.
It offers four driving modes, three of which can be selected on-demand by the driver: the ECO mode, the Power mode and the EV mode, which allows the car to run for up to 1.25 miles (2km) at speeds up to 31 mph on electricity alone, with zero fuel consumption and emissions.
But the concept due to be showcased at the forthcoming event stands out from the crowd through its design, much more appealing than the existing Prius, with subtle changes in Auris’ standard exterior styling. The front and rear bumper corners have flat surfaces, while the ride height has been lowered by 20mm.
Underbody panels, a rear diffuser and a rear spoiler have also been fitted, while the bespoke 18-inch alloy wheels complete the look. According to a company statement, all these aerodynamic elements target a drag coefficient of 0.28.
As for the interior features, the seats and upper dashboard are finished in blue Gaucholino leather with light blue accent stitching, matching with the instrument cluster’s hybrid blue illumination. In addition, the center console and side air vents are finished in pearl white. Other features include alloy pedals, steering wheel with a flat bottom section, as well as sequenced entry and exiting.
autoevolution will be attending the 2009 Frankfurt Motor Show, so stay tuned for some real up close and personal shots of these vehicles, as well as for first-hand details of the motorized contraptions
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