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| The Prius is quite large inside and very comfortable despite its compact exterior dimensions and extra electric motor, battery and associated gear. (Photo: Toyota) |
All in all, Campbell was impressed with the 4-door Toyota stating, "It's nice. It's small length-wise, but it's got lots of room. It's quiet. It seems to be peppy-once you get over the fact that the engine [periodically] shuts off, which is a little disconcerting."
Opposition arose towards Campbell's critique on the Prius. One reporter commented that the mayor was not a professional driver and does not have the skills necessary to evaluate 50% of the cities gas-electric fleet. "Of course I am," remarked Campbell, a man who has had multiple professions like coroner/RCMP officer/consultant/script writer. "I'm keeping notes, daily logs, of what's going on. I don't think you need to be a professional evaluator to say whether it works for us, from the point of fuel and maintenance costs. We can keep track of them. I'm sure most vehicles in fleets aren't evaluated by experts."
No decisions have been made in regards to purchasing more Prius' for the fleet. But, will the city invest in more hybrids? Campbell said, "Obviously we would, if it fits the specifications we need and it was cost-effective."