Some further details about the new 2016 Prius have been released by Toyota, including specifics about how the petrol-electric drivetrain achieves new levels of efficiency.
The foundation of the new Prius – as well as many more new Toyota models globally – is the new TNGA (Toyota New Global Architecture) platform that will underpin all global models moving forward. This new platform allows for more engaging and dynamic driving as well as design possibilities thanks to a lower centre of gravity and reduced weight, as well as offering improvements in efficiency and ride comfort. Remarkably body rigidity has been increased by over 60% thanks to the increased use of high-tensile strength steel from 3 to 19%. Laser screw welding, a greater number of welds as well as structural adhesives, help in offering greater body control and a more stable ride.
On the surface the Prius may appear to be the same underneath, as the 1.8-litre petrol engine/electric motor combination continues, but in reality the entire system has been completely overhauled. The “dual-cooling system” is able to automatically reduce the flow of engine coolant on start-up so as the engine can reach optimal temperature quicker, and a low-viscosity oil is used to further reduce friction between moving parts. Design changes to the piston and air intake ports create greater tumble swirl inside the cylinder, while more exhaust gas recirculation further improves combustion performance.
The electric motor and the transaxle have been made lighter, and the motor itself has an improved power-to-weight ratio, producing 71bhp in combination with the 97 bhp of the petrol engine. The electric motor and generator are not located over a single axle any more, a new multi-axle design locates the drive motor and electric motor/generator over multiple axles.
The hybrid batteries are now nick-metal hydride (NiMH) units and have been relocated underneath the rear seats so as not to infringe on boot space, which has increased over the previous Prius to a sizable 502 litres.
On board the new Prius you will find a fresh multi-information display system, that now features a full-colour 4.2 inch screen with high resolution graphics displaying fuel consumption, trip times etc. One side is selectable via the steering while the other constantly displays the current speed and fuel level.
A colour head-up display further enhances the futuristic feel of Toyota’s flagship hybrid, projecting vehicle information and driver alerts directly onto the windscreen without infringing the driver’s view, enabling them to keep their eyes on the road at all times.
Another clever feature on the Prius is S-FLOW climate control, which detects which seats are occupied and adjusts the air conditioning accordingly, reducing fuel consumption if it is not required in the rear seats.
New Prius will also feature Toyota Safety Sense, a suite of active safety technologies that is currently available on AYGO, Yaris, Auris & Avensis.
More details on pricing and specification will be released in the coming months. Stay tuned to @RonBrooksGroup on Twitter and /RonBrooksGroup on Facebook for the latest Toyota & Suzuki news and features.
