Toyota's 2010 Prius breaks cover

The remote air-conditioning system is the first system in the world to function on battery-power alone and that can be remotely operated, so the driver can adjust the interior temperature for comfort before getting in the car. Reducing the vehicle's power consumption, potional LED (light emitting diode) lamps are used for low beams and also in the tail and stop lamps. Air conditioning, a major energy drain, has been re-engineered to increase efficiency and cool-down performance. In addition, an exhaust heat recirculation system reduces heat waste by warming engine coolant during cold startup, for improved performance. It also heats up the passenger cabin more efficiently.

Lighter chassis

The hood, rear hatch, front suspension axle and brake caliper are made from aluminum and the use of super high-tensile steel in the rocker inner, center pillar, and roof reinforcement form a roll cage like safety cell for the occupants in the event of an accident. The 0-to-60 acceleration has been improved to 9.8 seconds, more than a second faster and disc brakes are now used on all four corners, replacing the front disc/rear drum brakes in the current model. Anti-lock Brake System (ABS), Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BA), electronic traction control (TRAC) and Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) are included with Toyota's standard Star Safety System.

Dynamic Radar Cruise Control system, using advanced millimeter wave radar, is an available option. The system also enables Lane Keep Assist, which helps the driver stay safely within the lane, and the Pre-Collision System, which retracts seatbelts and applies the brakes in certain conditions when a crash is unavoidable.

Next-generation Intelligent Parking Assist features simplified settings to help guide the car into parking spaces. A back-up monitor, which provides a view of rear obstacles when reverse is engaged, is available with an optional voice-activated navigation system.

2010 PRUIS PRELIMINARY SPECIFICATIONS

POWERTRAIN
• 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine with VVT-i
• Engine horsepower: 98 hp @ 5,200 rpm
• Engine torque: 105 lb-ft @ 4,000 rpm
• Electric motor: Permanent magnet synchronous motor
• Electric motor power output: 80 hp/153 lb-ft torque
• Hybrid system net horsepower: 134 hp
• Emission rating: SULEV (with AT-PZEV)
• Electronically controlled continuously variable transmission
• Drive System: Front-wheel-drive
• Hybrid battery pack: Nickel-metal hydride
• Estimated fuel economy: 50 mpg (combined)*

DIMENSIONS (inches)
• Overall Length: 175.6
• Overall Width: 68.7
• Overall Height: 58.7
• Wheelbase: 106.3
• Ground clearance: 5.5
• Coefficient of Drag: 0.25
• Wheels: 15-inch alloy wheels
• 17-inch alloy wheels (optional)
• Tire Size: 15-inch: 195/65R15
• 17-inch: 215/45R17 (optional)
• Seating Capacity: 5
• EPA class rating: Midsize

* Preliminary figure based on Toyota's internal testing. Actual mileage will vary.

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