But being that fuel prices are increasing substantially in North America, buyers may actually get immediate benefits in fuel savings to outweigh the additional cost per vehicle, he said.
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| Although there is interest in HEVs at the moment, nobody can tell what direction the market will head in the future. (Photo: Toyota Canada) |
Proof positive is the recent reception given to the new Prius, which has received more than 10,000 pre-orders before even arriving in dealerships. Such success, coupled with the fact that Toyota's new line of hybrids is being built on regular production lines, spells continued success for the technology.
"Ultimately, you can't sustain the business unless it's cost effective to do it," Cole said.
But still only time will tell if Toyota's bold venture into HEVs will pay off over the long haul.
Specifications:
- Price Range (estimated MSRP): $37,000 - $53,000
- Body Type: 5-door SUV, unibody
- Layout: Front engine, FWD (optional AWD)
- Gasoline Engine: 230 hp, 242 lb-ft of torque, 3.3-L, 24-valve, DOHC V6
- Electric Motor (FWD/AWD): two electric motors / three electric motors
- Combined Gasoline-Electric Hybrid Horsepower (estimated): 270
- Acceleration (estimated): under 8 seconds
- Transmission: Electronically-Controlled Continuously Variable (ECVT)
- Brakes (front/rear): disc/disc, ABS
- Curb Weight: N/A
- Seating Capacity: 7
- Cargo Cap (estimated with seats folded flat): 2,305 L (81.4 cu ft)
- Ground Clearance (estimated): 173 - 183 mm (6.8 - 7.2 in)
- Towing Capacity (estimated): 680 - 1,588 kg (1,500 - 3,500 lb)
- Fuel Economy (city/hwy): 10.7 / 7.9 L/100 km
- Warranty (mo/km): 36/60,000 comprehensive - 60/100,000 powertrain
- Direct Competitors: Ford Escape Hybrid
- Web Site: www.toyota.ca
Note: Additional larger photos available in photo album.
