2016 Prius Sets New Standards for Hybrids
When Toyota first introduced the Prius back in 2000, most American audiences were ready for this exciting new hybrid to hit the market. Well, that is, some American audiences. Toyota Dealers have been excited to see the latest models roll off the assembly line.
At first, the Prius was deemed the rational purchase that those who were environmentally aware and socially conscious could get behind. This market was one who focused on price and fuel economy, not sassy new trends.
For a hot minute, it was all anyone could do to avoid being labeled a ‘hippie’ or ‘nerd’ for driving their Prius. Even Hollywood couldn’t save this stereotype.
Setting New Standards
Luckily for us, Toyota never paid any attention to the naysayers. Trends have changed and so has the Prius.
Readying itself for the fourth generation and already setting new benchmark figures for fuel economy and hybrid features, drivers of the new Prius will be pleased to see higher standards in design and safety as well as an impressive look and feel.
Built on the same foundation of safety and eco-consciousness that started this and has now come to define its heritage, the new 2016 Prius ready to shake up the auto industry yet again.
Fourth Generation
Now in its fourth generation, the 2016 Prius receives some pretty cool updates. Aside from offering at least a 10% improvement in EPA-estimated mpg, it also showcases a much lower center of gravity, allowing drivers to feel more improvement in handling and responsive agility.
With competition in the alternative fuel segment now more fierce than ever before with several new models added to the marketplace, Toyota must set the tone with new standards. Because of this, skeptics believe the Prius faces more difficult challenges in making a noticeable difference.
A New Challenge
Recently, Toyota’s chief executive, Aiko Toyoda put out a challenge to all engineers and designers to start creating a more stylish and fun driving car. Jim Lentz, Toyota Motor Corporation’s North American CEO, told Automotive News “It is important to keep the Prius a “Prius”, meaning it still needs to have its recognizable iconic image yet it also needs a few redesigns. Toyota’s designers were encouraged to specifically emphasize a more aggressive styling for the 2016 Prius. In fact, the original design was deemed too safe and was sent back to the drawing board for a redesign. This was explained to be the reason why the launch for the 2016 Prius was delayed.
The New Global Architecture
One of the bigger changes that the 2016 Prius is getting is the TGNA, or the New Global Architecture. It is a new platform introduced by Toyota to simplify and make design more efficient by reducing the number of platforms and architectures.
Lighter and more compact than previous platforms this proves to be its biggest advantage. Being used on both the front and rear wheel drives allows the engine to be placed lower in the car providing a more stable, secure and efficient driving experience.
This system is also proving to be more cost efficient for Toyota which in turn they’ll use to invest in future technologies for the Prius, like an autonomous driving system.
Breaking Their Own Personal Best
Currently, the 2015 Prius gets about 50 mpgs and is the highest rated non plug in hybrid in the United States. Putting a focus on lower carbon emissions as well as breaking new grounds in fuel economy, the Prius is trying to set a new standard, again. Acknowledging a 10% mpg increase is Satoshi Ogiso, Toyota’s Managing Director who admits Toyota wants to beat their own personal best of 55 mpgs. Ogiso states they are very motivated to beat their own record. How do they plan on doing this?
Refined Engine Power
While the 2016 Prius is keeping the same engine, it does get a revamp. The 1.8L DOHC VVT-i Atkinson-cycle 4 cylinder engine is estimated to save 3% in fuel efficiency.
The base model Prius’ will keep the tried and true nickel-metal hydride battery pack but due to upgrades it is expected to provide more efficiency.
Higher ECO trim models will receive a newer power dense lithium ion battery, which have been in the currently plug-in Prius models. The ECO trim models will also contain super capacitors (super, not flux) which will capture much more energy during regenerative braking periods than batteries alone.
The Prius Coupe
The first Prius that will arrive ready for dealerships will be a 2 door coupe. With more similarities to a conventional modern, or even future car than previous models Prius’, it has mirrored some styles from Toyota’s newest EV, the Mirai. Certainly, Toyota is hoping to draw in a new, updated audience with their edgy and aggressive more popular design, without straying too far from its green hipster roots.
The Plug-In
While the 2015 Plug-In was halted from production halfway through this year, Toyota has not scrapped the idea altogether. With the previous models receiving marks that Toyota is not used to, even less than they are used to, removing the current model prevents any more consumer complaints. It also gives Toyota time to improve upon its model and in doing so improves consumer perceptions and relations of the relatively unknown Plug-In.
We already know about the 2016 Prius Plug-In is said to offer a 30-35 mile range on the batter alone, which is a substantial increase from the previous 11 mile range. It will also have its own distinctive look which will set it apart in design from the Prius.
Production for the 2016 Plug-In is slated to begin the second half of 2016. Given Toyota is as shy with the Plug-In Prius as they are with the hybrid, we may not see its release until 2017.
Perfect Situation
The Prius has and will always be the Weezer of the car scene; it’s the car for the nerd who became a rockstar, the fanboy who grew up to eventually win the hot girl over. It’s the Hollywood ending to all great teen movies. Drive a 2016 Prius because it’s impressive again. Own a 2016 Prius because of its fuel efficiency, higher standards and better technology. And because it’s still the car of the future.