Description

When Toyota introduced its gasoline-electric hybrid Prius for 2001, the manufacturer became the second automaker to offer a hybrid-powered passenger car, following on the heels of the two-passenger Honda Insight. The current Prius debuted for 2004. For 2007, the car receives additional standard safety equipment, as well as an available Touring Edition. From the start, the Prius differed from Honda's hybrids in that electric power was dominant in its powertrain. An electric motor can power the Prius until it reaches about 12 mph. At that point, the gasoline engine takes over in a virtually seamless transition. The electric motor kicks in when needed to furnish additional power. When the car is stopped or coasting, the gasoline engine can turn itself off. During that slowdown period, the battery pack recharges; the Prius never needs to be plugged in to a power source.