Toyota Prius PHEV Set for Frankfurt Debut in Production Form

Toyota has announced today that the full production version of the Prius Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV) will take place at the Frankfurt Motor Show on September 15th. The model now features a more compact lithium-ion battery which offers extended EV (electric power only) range, enabling the Prius PHEV to achieve the remarkable fuel efficiency target figure of 128.4 mpg on the European cycle. In addition, it puts out just 49 grams of CO2 per kilometer, almost half the regular Prius’ result. The PHEV is offered with a 1.8l engine, paired with a permanent magnet synchronous electric motor. The engine generates as much as 97 hp, while the electric motor adds an extra 79 bhp. The power for the new Prius comes from a li-ion battery and is enough to help the PHEV reach a top speed of 62 mph (100km/hour) in electric mode. On a full charge, it’s expected to travel for as much as (or as little, depending on how you look at it) 12.5miles (20km), six miles more than the current generation Prius. “While some debate the relative merits of electric cars, the new Prius Plug-in Hybrid offers drivers the best of both worlds; extended EV driving range for shorter journeys in towns and cities, while the efficient hybrid petrol engine gives the car uncompromising long range capability and the very low fuel consumption of the standard Prius,” Toyota says. The PHEV is expected to become Toyota’s hybrid lineup. It will join the ranks next year, sitting alongside the Prius, the British-built Auris hybrid, the new, seven-seat Prius+ and the new Yaris hybrid autoevolution will be attending the 2011 Frankfurt Auto Show, so stay tuned for some real up close and personal shots of the vehicles, as well as for first-hand details of the motorized contraptions presented at the event.