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What Technology is Packed Into a Prius

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Haley Kieser
What Technology is Packed Into a Prius

The Toyota Prius has been revolutionizing car technology since its domestic launch in Japan in late 1997. This compact, family-friendly vehicle is a petrol-electric hybrid, making it practical and low emission. 

While the concept for the hybrid vehicle existed before the creation of the Prius, Toyota was the first to create a design conducive for mass production. After some minor adjustments (mainly higher speeds and longer distances) the the Prius NHW11 was made available worldwide in the year 2000.

Since the release of the first generation Prius, Toyota has continued to lead the way in hybrid technology. With years of consumer feedback and technological advancements, Prius is now in its fourth generation and loaded with amenities.

The Technology Behind a Prius

Most people know that the Toyota Prius uses ‘hybrid’ technology, but what does that actually mean? 

There are two types of hybrid cars. The first uses an electric motor as well as a gasoline engine to work separately or together to power the car. The second uses a gasoline engine to charge the electric battery which provides the electric motor with power. 

The Prius is a series-parallel hybrid, meaning it utilizes both of these methods. Each Prius is equipped with a gearbox (known as the power split device) that connects the gasoline engine, power motor, and generator. 

Along with this unique technology, the Prius also contains a set of ‘planetary’ gears that move together to provide the car and generator with power. When these gears reach their top speed of rotation, the internal combustion engine is turned on and the car transitions from electric to gas-powered.

Technological Advancements Between Generations

First Generation

The first generation Prius put Toyota on the map as the leader of the hybrid car movement. This model features a maximum speed of just under 100 mph, averages 41 mpg, and emits 138 g/km of CO2. 

The first generation Prius featured a compact design and sedan body style. This model was sold in Japan beginning in 1997, and available worldwide from 2000-2003.

Second Generation

The second generation Prius featured notable upgrades to the body style, power, and fuel economy. In this model, CO2 emissions dropped to 104 g/km and top speed grew to 105.6 mph. Along with these improvements, the second generation Prius averaged 48 mpg in the city and 45 mpg on the highway. Acceleration (0-62 mph) was achieved in 10.9 seconds, as opposed to the previous generation which took 13.4 seconds.

This Prius, first produced in 2004, introduced us to the modern 5-door hatchback design style you most commonly see today and include a battery with an average lifespan of 15 years. In 2006, the second generation Prius received a facelift and a couple new features. The updated design included a crystal display, more airbags, and rearview camera. In 2007, side-curtain airbags were added.

Third Generation

In 2009, Toyota released the third generation Prius. This model boasted a smaller battery, better fuel economy (51 mpg - city, 48 mpg - highway), an electric water pump, larger engine, and an electronically controlled continuously variable transmission (ECVT). Along with these improvements, this model also featured more cargo space and a higher top speed (112 mph).

The design of the third generation Prius maintained the hatchback design first introduced in the second generation, but the body style underwent a makeover that made it more aerodynamic and stabilized at high speeds.

Fourth Generation

The fourth generation Prius hit the scene in 2016. This model features a more pleasant driving experience thanks to its recalibrated suspension, improve sound proofing, retuned engine, stiffer body structure, and better steering.

Along with these improvements, the fourth generation also features design changes like new headlights, taillights, and bumpers, as well as an infotainment system and dynamic cruise control.

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With each new generation, the Toyota Prius has remained on the cutting edge of hybrid technology. With its steadily improving fuel emissions, increased gas mileage, higher top speeds, and quicker acceleration, the evolution of the Prius guarantees that it will remain a popular hybrid vehicle choice for drivers worldwide.

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