The full hybrid version of the Prius was introduced to the European market in 2000 (1997 in Japan). The full hybrid Prius had one or two difficulties on the market at first, as Europeans were more convinced by the diesel vehicles’ capabilities. However, Toyota continued to make efforts to promote the car, which went on to become some sort of a symbol for all hybrid vehicles.
The vehicle reached the 100,000 units sales landmark in 2008, with the figure doubling subsequently in just two years. Toyota expects the model’s global sales to exceed two million units by the autumn of the current year.
“Prius well proven Hybrid Synergy Drive power train has been designed for low maintenance and outstanding durability, awarding the Pris the lowest warranty cost per unit amongst all Toyota models. It is also one of the most successful power trains in the history of the International Engine of the Year awards, with a total of 11 titles to date,” stated the press release.
Toyota is continuing to offer new hybrid developments, with the launch of the Auris Hybrid marking the start of an important expansion in the carmaker’s full hybrid range. Toyota aims to offer a Hybrid Synergy Drive powertrain for all of its European models sometime in the 2020s.
autoevolution has tested the Toyota Prius. You can read the review here.
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