by Michelle Morra
With the ultra fuel-efficient Prius leading global hybrid sales, Toyota already has the most comprehensive lineup of hybrid vehicles on the planet. But it doesn't intend to stop there. Starting with the next-generation Prius, the company is ushering in a new era in hybrid technology that will mean even more savings on money and gas for consumers.
By the end of 2015, Toyota plans to introduce 15 new or redesigned hybrid vehicles globally, with new hybrid powertrains that will come in a more compact, light-weight and affordable package. Managing Officer Satoshi Ogiso, Managing Officer of Toyota Motor Corporation (TMC) says the performance of these powertrains reflect significant advances in battery, electric motor and gas engine technologies and are part of Toyota’s larger strategy – the electrification of the automobile through hybrid, battery electric and fuel cell technologies.
To date, TMC has sold more than 5 million Toyota and Lexus hybrids worldwide. The impact of those sales? A reduction of an estimated 34 million tons of C02, which equals the removal of 4.8 million vehicles from the road.
As research and development progresses, Ogiso promises continued gains in fuel efficiency. Regarding the Prius he says, “In its three generations, Prius fuel efficiency has improved on average by about 10 per cent, each generation. The challenge to continue to improve at this rate – to beat your own record – becomes very difficult, but makes it all the more motivating.”
Published in Club Toyota magazine