Toyota Prius Sets Land Speed Record for Hybrid Vehicles

Inside, much of the Prius' space-age interior was stripped out to reduce the car's weight. Aside from the lack of front

The second-generation Prius has won international recognition by capturing the title of 2005 European Car of the Year, plus various other awards. (Photo: Toyota Canada)

passenger and rear seats, door panels and sound insulation, the modified Prius also featured a full tube-style roll cage and a 15-gallon tank for the ice-water circulatory system. Prepped and primed, the Prius ran the three mile-long "Short Circuit", designed for cars running at under 175 mph (282 km/h), at a speed of 130.794 mph, equivalent to just under 210 km/h.

Aside from its position as the fastest hybrid-powered vehicle, the Prius has proven its mettle in competition. The first-generation Prius was the first hybrid-powered car to compete in and finish an FIA-sanctioned event at the 8,000 km (4,970 mile) Midnight Sun to Red Sea Rally in 2002, and was an active competitor in the Canadian Pro Rally series that year.

Off the track, the second-generation Prius has won international recognition by capturing the title of 2005 European Car of the Year, plus various other awards.