Critical Knowledge:

• Based on the 2010 Toyota Prius
• High-output lithium-ion battery
• Runs on battery power until discharged, then operates like a traditional hybrid
• Charges in 90 minutes with a 230-volt electricity supply
• Range is about 13 miles on battery alone
• Runs up to 62 mph in electric-only mode
• Limited prototype lease program of 500 units worldwide in early 2010

Introduction
The Toyota Prius has become the poster child for the "green" movement among U.S. new-car buyers since its introduction in 2001. While Honda, maker of the gas-electric hybrid Insight from 2000-06, might dispute the claim, Toyota proudly states that the Prius was the first mass-produced gas-electric hybrid vehicle available for sale in the United States.

Now in its third generation, last redesigned for the 2010 model year, the production Toyota Prius utilizes the automaker's "Hybrid Synergy Drive" system. The system features a gas-electric hybrid powertrain consisting of a 1.8-liter, 4-cylinder gasoline engine and an 80-horsepower electric motor utilizing nickel-metal hydride batteries. While the production Prius is able to run in "electric-only" mode for brief periods at slow speeds, it primarily relies on its combination gas-electric hybrid system for propulsion and solely on the gasoline powerplant for recharging.

The Toyota Plug-in Hybrid Concept takes the technology one step further. While it retains the original Prius powerplant, the battery pack has been replaced with high-output lithium-ion batteries that can be recharged via common household outlets. The new batteries allow the Plug-in Hybrid Concept to operate on battery power alone for more than a dozen miles-covering most short errands in purely emission- and gasoline-free electric mode.

Before Toyota commits the Toyota Prius Plug-in Hybrid Concept to production, they will run an extensive real-world test through a limited lease program with 500 units in early 2010 (of those, more than 150 will be deployed in Europe). If successful, the automaker will extend the program to the commercial marketplace.

For More Information:

• See 2010 Toyota Prius Plug-In Hybrid Concept Pictures
• Browse Other Toyota Models
• Read More Previews