Toyota Prius

“Expectations are maxed out early on! Why is there so much interest in the new Prius even before its official unveiling? Why are social networking sites abuzz with excitement?

The current 4th generation “”Prius”” was controversial due to its flashy design!
　The Toyota Prius, now in its 25th year since its first-generation debut in December 1997, has been the driving force behind the popularization of hybrid cars that boast excellent fuel economy.
　
　The current model is the fourth generation, launched in December 2015, and already seven years after its debut, rumors of a full model change have been heard.
　
　Although the truth is not yet known, there have been reports of sightings of a test vehicle believed to be the new Prius on social networking sites, and the excitement seems to be building even before the official announcement.

(Image) “”Too novel style! A look at the fourth-generation Toyota Prius with a “”flashy face”” that has a strong futuristic feel (17 photos).

The fourth-generation (current) Prius (body color: “”Thermotect Yellow””) at the time of its full model change in December 2015, which also drew attention for its strong “”flashy face.

　The fourth-generation Prius made a spectacular debut as the first car developed based on TNGA (Toyota New Global Architecture), which represents Toyota’s structural reform of car manufacturing.

　The newly developed “”TNGA-C platform,”” featuring a low center of gravity packaging, was adopted for the first time to improve handling performance by enhancing body rigidity and lowering the center of gravity.

　In addition, the Toyota Safety Sense, an advanced driving support function, and other features are newly adopted.

　Of course, as the original hybrid car, fuel efficiency, the most important consideration, has not been overlooked, and the combustion efficiency of the engine has been greatly improved, while the motor, power control unit, and battery have also been made more efficient, compact, and lightweight.

　The fourth-generation Prius was such an innovative car, but what surprised me the most was its design.

　At the time, Toyota said, “”We aimed for a unique design that is instantly recognizable as a Prius,”” and while inheriting the triangle silhouette common to previous generations of Prius, the car’s strong styling and detailing attracted much attention.

　The headlight units and rear combination lamps were quite distinctive, and the design was a matter of taste.

　The new “”Thermotect Yellow”” coloring, which has a gorgeous fluorescent image, has a synergistic effect, further reinforcing this impression.

　The fourth-generation Prius was born with great pomp and circumstance as a symbol of change, but many people were puzzled by its “”too flashy design”” and the image change from the Prius up to the third-generation model was too great.

　Looking back, the simple and clean design of the 3rd generation Prius overlapped with the image of an “”eco-car”” and gave a sense of originality and progress, but the 4th generation may have been too big a swing.

　Also, by the time the fourth generation was launched, other Toyota models were being added to the hybrid lineup one after another, which was a negative factor for the original hybrid car, the Prius.

　As a result, the Prius was unable to surpass the sales volume of the third-generation Prius, which went down in history as a blockbuster.

　The overly flashy styling has since been replaced by a minor change in December 2018 with detail design changes to the front and rear lamps, giving it a cleaner look.
High expectations for the new Prius? Why is there so much interest in the new Prius even before its official unveiling? Why are social networking sites so excited?

New Styling! What will happen to the next “”Prius””?
　As mentioned above, the current 4th generation Prius is already in its 7th year since its debut.

　The first through third generations underwent model changes in a six-year cycle, and rumors of a full model change for the Prius have become frequent.

The roofline, with its arched arc, symbolizes the “”Prius-ness”” inherited from successive generations of the Prius [photo: second-generation Prius, introduced in 2003].

　Among these, a scooped image spotted in Japan has been generating a lot of excitement on social networking sites.

　While the authenticity of these images is not known at all, photos of a test vehicle that has been disguised as a Prius have been widely shared on social networking sites, with people asking, “”Is this the next Prius?

　This is another indication of the high level of interest in the next Prius.

　The test vehicle has a sporty form with a rather sharp front shape. The overall length is long, and the height appears to be quite low.

　It is hard to believe that this is a Prius at first glance, but it is also clear that the car has inherited the same identity as previous Prius models, with the apex of the roof arching over the center of the body.

　According to the images that have been spreading, the body of the car is fully covered with camouflage wrapping, making it difficult to discern the undulations of the fenders and other details such as the size and shape of the light units.

　Nevertheless, the silhouette of the car is enough to foreshadow a change to clean and simple styling.

　On social networking sites, comments such as “”I have a feeling it’s going to be cool,”” “”A sports car? It looks like a Prius, even though it is completely different from the 4th generation.

The new Prius has also played a symbolic role in the transformation of the company.

　The fourth-generation Prius at the time of its debut was highly impressive with its strong, flashy styling, partly because of its role as a symbol of change.

　Although no official announcement has been made by Toyota, we can hardly wait for the fifth generation of the next Prius to arrive on the scene to see if it will meet the growing expectations of users.
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“Toyota’s New “”Prius”” Coming Soon? 25 years after its birth, how will the “”pioneer”” hybrid car evolve?

Seven years have already passed since the last complete renewal
　The Toyota “”Prius”” was introduced in December 1997 as the world’s first mass-produced hybrid vehicle, and has since led the spread of hybrid vehicles.

Will the next Prius be a “”stylish coupe””? The Changing Prius & Latest Toyota Design in Pictures!
　In 2022, the 25th anniversary of the birth of the Prius, and the announcement of a new 5th generation model is being discussed, but how will the Prius evolve?

Toyota 4th generation Prius (image shows the improved model with minor changes in December 2018).

　The first-generation Prius was introduced in 1997 as a compact sedan with a 5-number size. With driving performance on par with existing gasoline-powered cars, it achieved about twice the fuel economy and halved CO2 emissions, and became synonymous with hybrid vehicles.

　The second generation followed in 2003, the third generation in 2009, and the current fourth generation in 2015.

　The third-generation model was a huge hit in Japan, selling over 300,000 units in 2010 and 2012. It was widely accepted as an “”environmentally friendly car”” not only in Japan but also in the world.

　The current 4th generation model also sold over 200,000 units in 2015 and 2016, when it debuted, and over 100,000 units annually from 2017 to 2019.

　Currently, however, Prius sales have stalled: sales are down to about 67,000 units in 2020 and 49,000 units in 2021, and according to statistics from the Japan Automobile Dealers Association, sales are still at about 18,000 units in the first half of 2022 (January to June).

　Due to the circumstances that seven years have passed since the last full model change and that orders are currently suspended, it is expected that low sales will continue until a new model is launched.

　How will the Prius evolve in the future?

Will it surpass the fuel economy of the Yaris?
　Twenty-five years ago, when the first-generation Prius was introduced, its strength was its fuel economy, but since then, many hybrid models have been added to the lineup, and the technology has matured. The Toyota Yaris, among others, achieves 36 km/L of fuel economy in its catalog.

　For the sedan Prius, the popularity of SUVs is also a headwind.

Toyota’s new “”Prius”” coming soon? 25 years after its birth, how will the “”pioneer car”” of hybrids evolve?

Will the new fifth-generation Prius be a stylish coupe? (Image: bZ SDN CONCEPT, also scheduled for release by Toyota)

　Under these circumstances, the Prius, the pioneer of hybrid vehicles, is being called upon to deliver even better fuel economy.

Many people on social networking sites have expressed their confidence in the fuel economy of the Prius, saying things like, “”It would feel great to drive at 40 per liter,”” and “”I was still impressed by the fuel economy when I drove a Prius for business.””

　Some also expressed their desire for a “”back-to-basics, reachable design that can be used as a senior citizen or company car”” even if the exterior will be streamlined to pursue fuel economy.

　The other is advancedness.

　The Prius has adopted world-first features such as “”Intelligent Parking Assist,”” which automatically operates the steering wheel when parking, “”S-VSC,”” which integrates control of the anti-skid system and electric power steering, and “”Electric Inverter Air Conditioner,”” which operates on battery power even during idling-stop. The Prius is an evolution of the Prius, and is a plug-in model.

　The Prius PHV, an evolution of the Prius plug-in hybrid, is also the first mass-produced vehicle in the world to be equipped with a solar charging system as an option.

The new Prius may be a car that is several steps ahead of other hybrid vehicles, as one SNS user said, “”I expect it to be a little ahead of the future as envisioned by Toyota.”

“Chassis and engine transfers! The Toyota Prius, no longer an “”eco-car””! What is the customized rendering of the flashy body?

Engine transshipment! A flashy custom version that is no longer a Prius!
　Toyota’s hybrid car, the Prius. It is the world’s first mass-produced hybrid vehicle and is well known throughout the world.

No longer the original model! View 56 images of the custom “”Prius”” with flashy aero and engine conversion.

　Automotive CGI artist Basel Masri has created and posted a rendering of the third-generation Prius (30 series), which has been lowered and given a custom race car look with a new engine.

Customized Toyota Prius (3rd generation) lowered and transplanted engine (photo: baselvisions)

　Basel Masri is a Jordanian automotive CGI artist. He creates custom renderings of Toyota, Porsche, Lamborghini, and other cars with flashy body kits and posts them on his social networking sites.

　The first-generation Prius was launched in 1997 as the world’s first mass-produced hybrid-only vehicle; the second generation debuted in 2003, the third generation in 2009, and the current fourth generation in 2015. The 3rd generation model debuted in 2010.

　The 3rd generation Prius recorded 315,669 new car sales in Japan in 2010, showing its popularity.

　Basel Masri has taken the popular 3rd generation Prius and customized it to look like a flashy racing car, and has released a rendering.

　The ride height of the regular Prius has been lowered to an extremely low level, and all parts have been changed, including the front bumper, over fenders, and door mirror side skirts, including the huge lip spoiler, giving the car a very wide stance, which is reminiscent of the Prius that competed in the SUPER GT 300 class in Japan. It is reminiscent of the Prius racing machines that competed in the SUPER GT 300 class in Japan.

　The rear of the car is particularly impressive.

　The hatch gate section is cut away, and the trunk space is occupied by a huge turbocharged V-type engine mounted on the rear overhang, so I guess it is supposed to be an RR.

　We do not know the details, but the volume looks like it could be about a V8 cylinder.

　The wheels have also been switched to large-diameter, dish-type wheels with camber angles and are housed inside the fenders.

　The car has been well received on social networking sites, with comments such as “”Please make my Prius to this spec,”” “”I’ve never wanted a Prius so badly,”” and “”Great design”” (all translated by the editorial staff).

　The rendering created by Basel Masri is an unrealistic design, but there are many customizations of the Prius that are far removed from the original concept, such as raising the height of the car to an extremely high level.

　Also, given that some custom stores have installed a V8 engine in a Tesla, its existence cannot be completely ruled out.”

“Toyota’s Next “”Prius”” to be Announced by the End of 2022? Will the 5th generation be “”sporty”” with a complete renewal after 7 years? Will the 25th year of its birth bring innovation?

The synonym for hybrid vehicles turns 25 years old! Full model change at last? Expectations for the 5th generation Prius
　The Toyota “”Prius”” was a pioneer in the field of hybrid cars.

Will the next Prius be a “”stylish coupe””? See the changing Prius & the latest Toyota design in images!

　In 2022, the 25th year since its birth, rumors are flying that the Prius will undergo a full model change in the near future.
　
　So, what are users’ feelings toward the Prius, which has led the hybrid vehicle market for many years, and what expectations do they have for the next Prius?

Twenty-five years have passed since the debut of the first Prius in 1997. What will be the value of the next-generation Prius? Will it be able to launch innovations (image: 4th-generation Prius model after minor changes)?

　The first-generation Prius was born in 1997 as “”the world’s first mass-produced hybrid car”” and was a compact sedan with a 5-number size.

　With driving performance on par with existing gasoline-powered cars, it achieved approximately twice the fuel economy and half the CO2 emissions of gasoline-powered cars, and reigned as the leader of hybrid cars in Japan.

　The second generation (2003), third generation (2009), and now the fourth generation (2015) have followed, and the history of the hybrid car has continued to unfold as hybrid performance has evolved and the design has been improved to meet the needs of the times.

　The second and subsequent generations have been widened in width to number 3, and the body type has been restyled from a 4-door sedan to a familiar 5-door hatchback.

　One episode in particular that is indispensable in describing the greatness of the Prius is that when the second-generation Prius was launched, it was a time of heightened awareness of environmental issues worldwide.

　Hollywood celebrities such as Leonardo DiCaprio anticipated this trend, and appeared on Hollywood red carpets in Prius cars.

　In addition, the third-generation Prius achieved two unprecedented annual sales of over 300,000 units, with 315,669 units sold in 2010 and 317,675 units sold in 2012, which is rare in the history of new car sales in Japan. In both name and reality, it was a “”best-selling car.

　However, although the current 4th generation model made a spectacular debut as the first model to adopt Toyota’s new TNGA platform, the design of the drooping headlights and taillights, which are also known as the “”Kabuki face,”” was not well received by users in Japan. The fourth generation model was also introduced in the same year.

　In the period when the fourth generation was introduced, the “”Aqua,”” a hybrid-only car also released by Toyota in 2011, and the Nissan “”Note e-POWER”” (currently a hybrid-only car), which was introduced in 2016, became hot topics in the new car market.

　Furthermore, most new cars nowadays have hybrid models in their lineups in addition to their gasoline-powered counterparts, gradually diminishing the value of the former “”hybrid car = Prius.

　Nevertheless, the fourth generation maintained over 200,000 units in 2015 (about 210,000) and 2016 (about 240,000), when it debuted; from 2017 to 2019, it recorded over 100,000 units.

　However, in 2020, sales volume will drop sharply to about 67,000 units due to the appearance of the Toyota Yaris, which records 36 km/L catalog fuel economy, the Honda Fit, the Toyota Corolla/Corolla Touring, the Rise compact SUV, and the Alphard luxury minivan, etc. In 2021, sales volume will drop to about 47,000 units, and in 2021 to about 40,000 units. By 2021, the sales volume will be less than 50,000 units at 49,000 units.

　These factors are various, including changes in user needs such as “”low price and fuel efficiency”” and “”activity and luxury orientation,”” as well as the Corona disaster in the latter half of 2020.

　And as of September 15, 2022, 25 years after the birth of the first generation in 1997, orders for the fourth generation have been stopped and new orders are no longer available in stores.

　Regarding this, a representative from a Toyota dealership in the Tokyo metropolitan area said, “”Orders for the fourth-generation Prius will be completed in April 2022. We haven’t received any detailed information yet, but there are rumors that a full model change may be announced as early as November or December of this year,”” he said.

　Another Toyota dealer’s representative also said, “”We hear that a full model change will be announced by the end of this year,”” and it seems likely that the Prius will undergo a full model change.

　There have been rumors about the full model change of the Prius on social networking sites, and according to a dealer representative, “”We have received inquiries from customers about the new Prius,”” so it seems that many users are paying attention to the new Prius.

　So, what is the reaction of users to the new Prius?

　On the Internet, we can see images that predict the styling of the new Prius, which is expected to be even more stylish and sporty than the current model.

　Comments such as “”It looks cool with a sporty look”” and “”I want it if it looks like the new Crown”” were seen in response to these exterior predictions.

　In response to the possibility of a sporty look, some commented, “”The ride is very comfortable, so I hope it has a more elegant look.

　Regarding performance, some commented that they hoped the 5th generation would have fuel economy of 45 km/L or 50 km/L.

　On the Internet, there were also comments such as, “”Nowadays, every car has a hybrid model, and I feel that the need for a Prius is fading. I want Prius to surprise the world with its concept and advanced features like the first generation did.

　We also saw comments from overseas users such as “”What will the new generation Prius be like?”” and “”I hope to see the evolution of an eco-friendly, easy-to-ride Prius.　

* * * *

　In this context, a representative from a Toyota-affiliated sales company spoke as follows about the factors that have made the Prius popular up to now and about the next-generation Prius.

The Prius is a popular car among people of all ages. The reasons for its popularity include its appeal as a car, such as ‘fuel efficiency,’ ‘size,’ and ‘ease of driving.

　In addition, the Prius brand has been built up over many years as a ‘reliable car’ and a ‘hybrid car = Prius.

　This is one of the reasons why we have received comments from customers such as, “”It is fuel-efficient and easy to drive,”” and “”My father said I could buy a Prius.

　However, even the Prius has lost some of its individuality, and I can’t help but wonder what kind of individuality the next Prius will bring to the market.

　The fourth-generation Prius is now in its seventh year since its debut, and users around the world are interested to see what kind of value the fifth-generation Prius will bring to the market.”

“Toyota’s Prius to undergo a full model change by the end of the year? What is the direction of the 5th generation, questioning the raison d’etre of an HV-only vehicle?

What Will Happen to the “”Original”” Hybrid Car “”Prius”” with the Rapid Spread of Electric Vehicles?
　Since its first generation in December 1997, the Toyota Prius has grown to become synonymous with hybrid cars both in name and reality. It has already been seven years since its debut, and is rumored to be nearing a full model change.

The new model is going the “”stylish”” route! View 17 images of the Toyota Prius.

　What will the new 5th generation Prius really look like?

Will the fifth-generation new Prius shift to a stylish coupe form? ［The images show the commonality of the coupe image. Toyota’s next-generation battery-electric vehicle, the bZ Compact SUV (concept car)].

　It is rumored that the next-generation Prius will have its world premiere this November 2022.

　When you think about it, seven years have passed since the current Prius (4th generation) debuted in 2015, and it is about time for a full model change.

　On the other hand, looking at the recent sales situation, sales of “”hybrid-only cars”” tend to be sluggish.

　The Aqua, which also has only a hybrid model, was fully remodeled in July 2021, but while it is said that it cannot be produced due to a shortage of semiconductors, there is no sign of its predecessor, which had enjoyed brisk sales.

　Even Honda’s Insight, a hybrid-only vehicle, has not been a hit with consumers.

　On a global scale, sales of the Prius have been sluggish, while sales of models such as the RAV4, C-HR, and Corolla, which are available with either a standard engine or a hybrid, have tended to be stable.

　Will the new Prius really sell well? Or is it worthwhile to make a hybrid-only car now?

　The author (Mitsuhiro Kunisawa) will take a closer look.

　First of all, the cause of the failure of the current Prius is clear.

　Immediately after the debut of the current 4th generation model, President Akio Toyoda commented, “”I have been saying since the development stage that the (4th generation) Prius is not cool.

　Conversely, it may mean that the direction of the larger trend of Toyota cannot be changed even if the president disagrees.

　However, there is no way to sell a car that anyone can look at and instantly think, “”That’s not cool! There is no way that a car that anyone can look at and instantly think, “”That’s not cool!

　Those who promoted the uncool design are responsible for the global failure of the current Prius, and the current Prius has also had a tough time in terms of practical use.

　If you’ve ever been overseas, I don’t need to explain, but the 2nd and 3rd generation Prius were used in cabs on a global scale. At one time, it seemed like half the cabs in San Francisco were Priuses.

　Even in Europe and Southeast Asia, there was a great need for the fuel-efficient and practical Prius.

　With the introduction of the current Prius, the need for cabs has decreased dramatically. To begin with, the rear seats are narrow and the luggage space is also small.

　In Europe, when a hybrid was added to the Corolla, an avalanche of people switched from the Prius.

　I believe that the global failure of the current Prius was not so much a problem with a hybrid-only car as it was a problem with the way the current Prius was built. In other words, it was an own-goal failure.

　As for the Aqua, everyone on the sales floor is unanimous in saying that they are not aware that it is a new model.

　Indeed, the new model is a thoroughly kept concept. You probably wouldn’t even notice the new Aqua when you see it on the street.

　I don’t think Toyota was aiming for a chameleon line, but the result is a car with no presence.

　The fact that Toyota did not advertise or publicize the Aqua at all at the time of its debut may have contributed to its lack of presence.

　This is a long and lengthy preface.

　Is a hybrid-only car meaningless now?

　Interestingly, information about the new 5th generation Prius is starting to flow out little by little. Scoop illustrations and renderings are beginning to appear.

　Looking at such information, it seems that the new Prius is heading in a completely different direction from the current Prius.

　While the true design is still unknown, all the information about the new Prius that is circulating around is that it is a stylish personal car.

　One would think that it would go in the direction of a “”working car”” as typified by the JPN Taxi, but it seems that this is not the case. Apparently, the development team for the next Prius has a dream for the Prius.

　As you can see from the resurgence of the Crown, this has become an interesting aspect of Toyota’s recent activities.

　While other manufacturers would have opted for “”unavoidable balance of scale,”” Toyota’s volunteers have decided to go for the “”no more! and they are playing the “”dame-moto”” game.

I think we can decide whether or not a hybrid-only car is a bad idea after seeing the new Prius, but if users say, “”That’s cool! I believe that a hybrid-only car is significant if it receives a positive evaluation from users.

　If it is not well received, the 5th generation may be the last hybrid-only car.

　In any case, I am looking forward to the world premiere of the new Prius.

　What will the development team of the new Prius, which has been pushed into a corner, have to fight against?

Translated with www.DeepL.com/Translator (free version)”

“Prius “”Cross”” Remodeled! New “”Prius Cross”” model with great specifications that can handle long-distance travel with ease.
The Prius “”Cross”” has undergone a model change! Now with Superb Specifications for Long-Distance Traveling
Newly Remodeled Prius “”Cross””! The Prius “”Cross”” has been remodeled to a more comfortable and convenient vehicle for long-distance travel! The Prius “”Cross”” has been remodeled to a new model that can easily handle long-distance travel! The Prius

To the wonderful specification that can handle long-distance travel with ease!
Nowadays, it is very popular for new cars to have a little bit of a lift. If you can’t find one, let’s make one, Prius Cross! This time, we’d like to introduce you to a new model that can handle long drives with ease. This time, I introduced two items that can handle long drives with ease.

I had already understood the importance of the Corona disaster, but the Corona disaster made me realize its importance once again.
When I think back on my work style, the time I spend in front of my computer desk or in my car, or sitting in a chair, accounts for the largest share of my day. Especially when I am driving a car, I almost never move from my seat because I often drive for several hours without taking a break. I have been feeling that my body is getting harder and harder every year, so I decided to replace my seat as a reward to myself.

Newly remodeled Prius “”Cross””! To the wonderful specification that can handle long distance travel with ease!
We chose Brid, a well-known manufacturer that develops and manufactures high-quality seats. They have a wide range of products from full bucket seats for full-scale racing to reclining seats with high comfort performance. I chose the “”EUROSTER series”” of reclining seats.

The Prius “”Cross”” has been remodeled! The new model is designed to handle long-distance travel with ease!
Being 181cm and 97kg, I have a somewhat selfish body, so even though I have a longing for a full bucket seat, I understand that I will either destroy it or get stuck in it once I sit in it. Therefore, I chose this seat for its holding capability and ease of getting in and out of the car.

The Prius “”Cross”” has undergone a model change! Now with great specifications that can handle long-distance travel with ease!
The Prius “”Cross”” has been remodeled! The new “”Prius Cross”” is designed to make long-distance travel easier and more comfortable.
The new ergonomics design emphasizing ease of use and less fatigue, and high-density urethane foam provides pressure dispersion and holding performance. When I actually sat in the seat, I felt it was firmer than the factory one, but it was not uncomfortably so, and I hardly felt pain on the back of my thigh after long distance driving.

Newly remodeled Prius “”Cross””! To the wonderful specification that can handle long distance travel with ease!
The side supports on the seat and back are more effective than I had imagined. The stock seat requires the driver to support himself/herself when taking a curve, but the supports hold the body down and reduce the burden considerably. The most surprising thing was that the slight vibration transmitted from the seat while driving was considerably reduced, and I could feel that the burden on my body was greatly reduced.

I want to increase the load capacity! But I don’t want it to look ugly, so what items did I choose?
We have two dogs, so when we go out in the car, the rear seat is their designated seat. If I put a crate and a bag containing dog goods in the rear seat, there would be no space left. The pet cart rides in the luggage, so there is almost no space for the dogs. Whenever we had a little extra luggage for shopping, we were forced to cram it in, so we decided to install a roof box to solve this problem.

The Prius “”Cross”” has been remodeled! The new “”Cross”” Prius has been redesigned to be more comfortable for long-distance travel.
The standard for selecting a seat was the size of the seat to accommodate a folded pet cart. We were particularly concerned about the thickness of the roof box, as the height of a pet cart becomes 30 cm when folded, and we did not want a roof box that was thicker than necessary, so we looked for one with a height of less than 40 cm. As for the length, if it was too long, it would look like a regent when viewed from the side, so we looked for a product less than 2m based on the results of a careful simulation with an actual car. I tried to find a car with a length of less than 2 m based on a careful simulation of the actual car. I looked for a car with a length of less than 2 m based on a careful simulation of the actual car. After much searching, I found a product called “”Haplo Zenith 6.6,”” which is made in Holland and mounted on the Prius “”Cross”” this time.

The Prius “”Cross”” has been remodeled! It is now a wonderful specification that can easily handle long-distance travel!
The Prius “”Cross”” has undergone a model change! The new “”Prius Cross”” is designed to make long-distance travel easier and more comfortable.
The dimensions are 37cm high and 191cm long, which meet the requirements. And the fact that we have never seen anyone with a Haplo on the roof of a Prius before is a big plus. The roof bar is a Surrey wing bar, as Haplo was not available for the Prius.

The Prius “”Cross”” has been remodeled! The new “”Cross”” is designed to make long-distance travel easier and more enjoyable!
Newly remodeled Prius “”Cross””! The new “”Cross”” Prius has been redesigned to be more comfortable for long-distance travel.
What I particularly like is the beautiful styling when viewed from the side. I like the way the lines are made to look thinner and more streamlined. The advantage and disadvantage of using this product is its tight seal, which requires some skill and power when opening. Once that is cleared, it is very precise when opening and closing, and closes semi-automatically with a “”pop”” at the end.

The Prius “”Cross”” has undergone a model change! To the wonderful specification that can handle long distance travel with ease!
I was worried about wind noise and fuel consumption after installation.　I was wondering if it would affect the wind noise or fuel economy, but the wind noise is not zero, but it might be a little louder. I honestly think that fuel consumption has decreased slightly, maybe by 5%. I think so, by about 5%. However, considering my lifestyle, I do not consider this to be a problem, as it is within an acceptable range.

I am immersed in a world of self-satisfaction, thinking that this is a model change that is kind to my body and enriches my lifestyle. However, I am still far from the Prius Cross that I envisioned…so I will proceed with the project with the aim of completing it by the end of this year.”

“Toyota Recalls 8669 Third-Generation Prius…Hybrid System Failure2022, Thu, Jun 30, 06:45 PM

On June 29, Toyota Motor Corporation filed a recall with the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism (MLIT) due to a defect in the hybrid system of the Prius. The affected vehicles are 8669 units manufactured between May 14, 2009 and February 5, 2014.

Due to an improper control program for determining when an abnormality occurs in the hybrid system, the system may not be able to shift to fail-safe mode if the element of the voltage booster circuit is damaged during high-load driving such as rapid acceleration from extremely low speeds. As a result, a warning light may illuminate and the hybrid system may stop, rendering the vehicle inoperable.

As a remedial measure, all vehicles will have their control programs modified to the countermeasure specifications when an abnormality is detected. If the element is damaged and the warning light comes on after the control program has been corrected, the power converter module will be replaced free of charge.

No defects or accidents have occurred. The problem was discovered based on information from within the company.

The recall was reported on June 24, 2020, but since it was discovered that some errors were made in the selection of the affected vehicles, the recall was reported again with additional vehicles added to the list.

“

“Why is it reported in the press as “”Porsche”” and “”Maserati”” instead of “”automobile””? And once the car name “”Prius””! Why is there bias in the expression?

Imported cars tend to be reported by brand name
　When we look at reports of incidents and accidents involving cars, we find that there is a certain trend in the way brand names and car model names are described.
　
　Recently, the brand names of imported cars have been reported day after day, but what criteria are there?

Why were they called Prius Missile? Look at the black spec “”Prius,”” a normally cool car!

Why are brand names such as “”Porsche”” and “”Maserati”” reported in accident reports? A domestic car was once reported under the name “”Prius””..

　On June 14, 2022, it was reported that a Porsche 911, apparently driven by an errant driver, plowed into the gate of a kindergarten in Miyagi Prefecture, but the major mass media that reported this accident did not seem to report the model name of the car, 911.

　On the following day, the 15th, a stolen Maserati Ghibli in Chiba Prefecture ran out of control and plowed into a sidewalk in Tokyo.

　While almost all of the major mass media outlets that reported this incident also used the brand name “”Maserati”” in their headlines, none of them even reported the model name “”Gibli.

　In any case, there is no evidence that the car was driven wrongly because it was a Porsche, or stolen or driven out of control because it was a Maserati, and the name has become known in a way that Maserati and Porsche enthusiasts and others do not want it to.

　On June 13, a few days before these accidents and incidents, two men and a woman in a stolen car fled the scene in Numazu City, Shizuoka Prefecture, crashing into a police car and a regular car.

　The stolen car is believed to be a Toyota “”Land Cruiser Prado (150 series),”” but we could not find any cases in which the words “”Land Cruiser”” or “”Land Cruiser”” or “”Prado”” were used in the headlines among the major mass media that reported this incident.

　Thus, while the brand names of imported cars are reported in full, domestic cars are generally described simply as “”cars”” or “”automobiles.

　However, until a few years ago, there were cases where specific brand or model names were mentioned for domestic cars as well.

　For example, in the Ikebukuro runaway accident that occurred in April 2019, the name of the Toyota “”Prius”” driven by the defendant was widely reported because the defendant claimed that the runaway was caused by a defect in the car.

　At the time, there were also many reports of “”misstep accidents”” involving elderly people, and since many of the reports showed a Prius, some derided them as “”Prius missiles.

　However, it seems that the large number of Prius cars sold and the fact that they were favored by a wide range of generations (especially the elderly) were more significant factors than any actual problems with the Prius itself.

　Looking at reports of incidents and accidents involving cars in this way, it is clear that there is a certain trend in the use of brand names and model names.

　As a general trend, imported cars are often described by brand names or by expressions that emphasize the fact that they are expensive imported cars, such as “”luxury imported cars”” or “”luxury sports cars.

　On the other hand, for domestic cars, unless the car itself is involved in the root of the incident or accident, there are not so many cases where the brand or model name is reported.

* * *

　However, we believe that the statement entitled “”Our Views on Reporting Real Names”” released in March 2022 by the Japan Newspaper Publishers Association, which is comprised of newspapers, news agencies, and broadcasters nationwide, may be of help in understanding this issue. We believe that it may help to understand this issue.

　This statement summarizes the Association’s position on the significance of reporting the real names of victims of incidents and accidents.

　It states, “”We believe that names can create sympathy for the victims, make the incident seem like no one else’s business, and serve as a force to encourage discussion about improving the system to prevent recurrence, and there are many examples of such cases.

　Although this is only a description of a person’s name, there are some points that should be common in the area of names.

　In this context, it is also true that there are cases where brand names are reported and cases where they are not, as in the aforementioned examples.

　In this regard, although the report states that “”news organizations do not absolutely insist on reporting the names of people by their real names,”” the final decision on whether or not to report the names of people by their real names is the responsibility of the news organization. In short, it seems that it is up to each media organization to make its own decision.

Translated with www.DeepL.com/Translator (free version)”

“Toyota’s Fourth Generation “”Prius”” Ends Sales in Australia! The end of 21 years of history. What is the history that paved the way for the popularization of HVs?

Prius Paves the Way for HV Vehicles in Australia
　Toyota’s Australian subsidiary announced on May 11, 2022 that it will end sales of the fourth-generation Toyota Prius in the Australian market.

End of 21 years of history in Australia! What kind of model was the 4th generation Toyota “”Prius””? View in pictures.

Toyota’s 4th generation “”Prius”” announced to be discontinued in Australia

　The first-generation Prius, a hybrid-only vehicle, was introduced in the Australian market in October 2001.

　Over the 21 years of its four generations, a total of 28,847 units have been sold.

　There was also a time when the first-generation “”Aqua”” was sold in the Australian market as the “”Prius C”” and the “”Prius Alpha”” as the “”Prius V””.

　Including the Prius C and Prius V models sold under the Prius brand, the total cumulative sales of the Prius C and Prius V models amounted to 35,947 units.

　Sean Hanley, Vice President of Sales and Marketing for Toyota in Australia, looks back on the history of Toyota’s hybrid vehicles in Australia.

In 2001, Prius sales in Australia were a handful.

　It took until mid-2018 for Toyota hybrid sales to reach a total of 100,000 units, and then the 200,000 cumulative sales mark was surpassed in 2021.

　The Prius paved the way for Australian users by providing them with an option for a more efficient and environmentally friendly car lifestyle. User sympathy for hybrid vehicles is growing stronger as time goes on.””

* * *

　Although Prius sales in the Australian market will end, as of 2022 Toyota offers a wide range of hybrid vehicles in the Australian market, including the Corolla, Camry, RAV4, C-HR, Yaris, and Yaris Cross.”

“25th anniversary of the world’s first mass-produced hybrid vehicle! What a great achievement of Toyota’s first generation “”Prius”” in time for the 21st century!

25 Years Since Its Birth! A Look Back at Toyota’s First “”Prius
　One of Japan’s most fuel-efficient eco-cars is the Toyota Prius. The current model is the fourth generation, launched in 2015, and continues to reign as one of the world’s most fuel-efficient cars.

Covering the “”Toyota Hachi”” based HV and the Prius prototype! See the first generation “”Prius””

The first-generation “”Prius””, a great accomplishment and a brilliant landmark in the world’s automotive history

　The first-generation Prius was born in August 1997. As the world’s first mass-produced hybrid passenger car, it changed the concept of eco-cars up until then, and is truly an epoch-making model in the world’s automotive history.

　The year 2022 will mark a major milestone, 25 years since the launch of the Prius. We take a look back at what the first-generation Prius was like.

* * * *

　The development of hybrid vehicles by Toyota has a long history, dating back to 1965. At the time, Toyota was focusing on gas turbine engines for hybrids because of their excellent characteristics: energy-saving, lightweight, compact, and low environmental impact. The gas turbine engine is characterized by a series of cycles of intake, compression, combustion, and exhaust that are carried out using only rotational motion, and the jet engine is also a gas turbine engine.

　In 1969, Toyota began development of a hybrid vehicle equipped with a gas turbine engine, exhibiting the “”Century Gas Turbine Hybrid Test Model”” at the 21st Tokyo Motor Show in 1975, and at the 22nd Tokyo Motor Show in 1977, the “”Sports 800 Gas Turbine Hybrid Model”” with a downsized hybrid system was exhibited. The “”Sport 800 Gas Turbine Hybrid Car”” with a downsized hybrid system was exhibited at the 22nd Tokyo Motor Show in 1977.

　Development of the gas turbine hybrid by Toyota then continued until the 1980s, but it was never put into practical use, and the company shifted to a hybrid system based on a reciprocating engine.

　It is said that the development of a production hybrid vehicle directly linked to the Prius began in 1993.

　Then, in August 1997, the first-generation Prius was launched with the catchphrase “”Just in time for the 21st century.

　The car body was a four-door sedan with a unique wedge-shaped shape designed for aerodynamic performance, achieving a Cd value (coefficient of drag) of 0.30. Measuring 4275 mm (length) x 1695 mm (width) x 1490 mm (height), it was quite compact by today’s standards.

　The interior was also advanced in design, with a horizontal LCD monitor at the top center of the instrument panel with a digital speedometer, fuel gauge, and various warning lights, and a 5.8-inch wide display below it as standard equipment, with an audio screen (radio/tape), vehicle information screen ( hybrid energy flow and fuel consumption & recovered energy information), AV adjustment screen (sound quality screen adjustment), and FM multiplex broadcast (visible radio), as well as a warning screen could be displayed.

　It also featured a foot-operated parking brake and column-type shift lever, and side walk-throughs were available, giving it minivan-like utility.

　The Prius’ development target was to achieve twice the fuel economy of gasoline-powered vehicles in the same class, and it achieved a fuel economy of 28 km/L (10-15 mode), which was astounding at the time.

　In fact, this is approximately twice the fuel efficiency of a conventional gasoline engine AT vehicle, and means that CO2 emissions have been reduced to approximately one-half.

　Furthermore, air pollutants such as CO, HC (hydrocarbons), and NOx (nitrogen oxides) were reduced to approximately one-tenth the levels regulated at the time.

　The power unit that achieved this low fuel consumption is the Toyota Hybrid System (THS), which combines a 1.5-liter in-line four-cylinder Miller cycle engine with a maximum output of 58 hp, a 41 hp motor, and a power split mechanism that controls the drive distribution between the engine and motor and the generation of electricity.

　For the running battery, nickel-metal hydride batteries were used for stability, reliability, and cost.

　The THS stops the engine and runs on the motor alone (for a very short distance only) when starting off or under light load, and in normal driving, the engine power is split into two paths to drive the tires and generate electricity, with the motor assisting the engine.

　In addition, the elements of the drive system are not significantly different from those of the current strong hybrid: the battery supplies power to the motor during full-throttle acceleration, the regenerated power is stored in the battery during deceleration, and when the battery needs to be charged, power is supplied to the battery while the car is in motion.

　Priced at 2,150,000 yen (not including consumption tax), it was between 500,000 and 700,000 yen more expensive than a gasoline-powered car in the same class, but in reality it was quite a bargain price.

* * *

　The first-generation Prius established a new genre of hybrid vehicles, but it was not a big hit because users at the time were not yet very environmentally conscious and skeptical about expensive hybrid vehicles, and the production of running batteries was not easy. The production was limited and did not become a big hit.

　However, the Prius had a tremendous impact on other manufacturers, and automakers around the world followed Toyota’s lead in developing hybrid vehicles. It is truly a great car that changed the world.”