It features numerous sophisticated technological breakthroughs, including a Dual Motor EV drive system, a battery warming system and two world firsts - EV range-extending solar roof, and gas injection heat pump auto air-conditioning.

With an EV range doubled to over 50 km and maximum EV speed increased from 85 to 135 km/h, the new Prius Plug-in Hybrid represents a huge leap forwards in efficiency, driving performance, innovation and styling, whilst remaining true to Toyota’s goal of creating the ultimate eco car.

State-of-the-Art PHV Technology, Impressive EV Driving Experience

At the heart of the new Prius Plug-in Hybrid is the latest generation of Toyota’s advanced PHV technology. It offers customers two cars in one; an even more sophisticated full hybrid powertrain and a real, all-electric EV driving experience with double the range of the previous generation model.

This significant increase in EV driving range is based on technological improvements in three key areas: optimum battery development, maximising EV driving performance and increasing recharging speed to enhance convenience.

Located under the rear loadspace, a large capacity lithium-ion battery is fundamental to the new Toyota PHV’s significantly improved 50 km EV range. Battery volume has been increased from 87 to 145 litres, its energy capacity doubled from 4.4 to 8.8 kWh and yet, at 120 kg, it’s just 50% heavier than its predecessor.

EV power has also been increased by some 83% thanks to the development of the Toyota’s first hybrid powertrain to feature a Dual Motor Drive System. A new, highly-compact one-way clutch within the transaxle allows the hybrid system generator to act as a second electric motor. This boosts EV driving power to 68 kW for better acceleration and an even more engaging performance, whilst greatly reducing engine start up frequency.

The further minimising of engine usage whilst the Prius Plug-in Hybrid is operating in EV drive mode is assured through the enhanced efficiency of the new PHV system, which builds on the 4^thgeneration full hybrid technology powering the new Prius with several sophisticated new technologies.

Another world first, the auto air-conditioning is now powered by a gas-injection heat pump which will heat the cabin in outside temperatures as low as -10 degrees C, without starting the engine, hence minimising the impact which heating the interior has on EV driving range.

Far more efficient than engine heating or high power electric water heaters, the heat pump can efficiently warm the interior using heat absorbed from the outside air. Mounted to the heat pump system, the gas-injection mechanism ensures heating performance even when outside temperatures are low.

Moreover, during charging, a new battery warming system will warm the cells to an efficient working temperature in outside conditions as cold as -20 degrees C. This ensures that both battery power and efficiency are maintained at a sufficient level to minimise the impact of cold weather on EV driving range, with full power available from start off in even very cold conditions.

Its maximum charging power increased from 2 to 3.3 kW, the battery itself can be fully charged up to 65% more quickly; in only 2 hours using the Type II Mode III Mennekes connector, and 3 hours and 10 minutes using a standard household plug socket. The charging process is now programmable weekly on a day-by-day basis, and includes the facility to simultaneously charge and pre-cool or pre-heat the cabin.

The full hybrid drive system’s new transaxle is combined with a new, highly efficient PCU system control unit to give the Prius Plug-in Hybrid extraordinary overall operating efficiency. It combines improved EV and HV driving performance with a targeted average fuel consumption of only 1.0* l/100km and CO₂ emissions of just 22* g/km.

Striking, Stand-alone, Aerodynamic Styling

Sharing the TNGA (Toyota New Global Architecture) platform of the latest Prius, the new Prius Plug-in Hybrid’s striking, highly aerodynamic design builds on the iconic Prius profile with unique styling elements which hint at the advanced technology within.

At 4,645 mm long, 1,760 mm wide and 1,470 mm high, the new Toyota PHV is 165 mm longer, 15 mm wider and 20 mm lower than its predecessor, with front and rear overhangs lengthened by 25 mm and 80 mm respectively, over the 4th generation Prius. A reduction in cowl height and in rear spoiler height further emphasises the car’s long, sleek side silhouette and low centre of gravity.

A powerful evolution of Toyota’s Under Priority and Keen Look design themes, the front of the new Prius Plug-in Hybrid is instantly recognisable from the standard Prius through a highly three-dimensional acrylic grille treatment and thin, ultra-compact 4-LED headlamp units featuring new adaptive technology.

The strong forward projection of the grille is emphasised by the highly aerodynamic sculp-ting of the bumper sides, whilst the vertical location of the Daytime Running Lights (DRL) and LED turn indicators at the extreme edges of the front fenders reinforce the low, wide, ground-hugging stance of the vehicle.

In profile, the Prius Plug-in Hybrid may be identified not only by its longer rear overhang and lower cowl and rear spoiler heights, but also by PHV-specific, two-tone 15” alloy wheels designed to enhance brake cooling.

To the rear, the cross-sectional shape of the PHV-unique, aerodynamics-enhancing, ‘double-bubble’ rear screen is carried into the curve of the rear spoiler, at the extremities of which are integrated rear LED light clusters, again unique to the Toyota PHV.

A comprehensive aerodynamics package is key to achieving the fuel consumption reducing benefits of a remarkably low, class-leading drag coefficient of only Cd 0.25.

The new Toyota PHV builds on the already highly efficient aerodynamics of the latest Prius with a lower roof and rear spoiler height, an enlarged area of underbody covers, airflow rectifying front and rear bumper corners, the double-bubble rear screen and aero stabiliser fins built into the rear combination lamps.

In addition, the new Prius Plug-in Hybrid features a shutter built into the lower front grille, which is automatically opened or closed to optimise the flow of cooling air into the engine bay, reducing air resistance.

When the engine is cold, the grille shutter is closed to suppress engine cooling airflow and shorten the engine warm-up time, contributing to lower fuel consumption.

‘Iconic Human Tech’ Interior Design

The new Prius Plug-in Hybrid shares the dashboard design of the latest Prius; a clear, structural arrangement of layered information which places the driver’s meters at distance and the displays close at hand.

However, the new Toyota PHV benefits from a larger, 8” infotainment screen with updated, 2016 graphics. The dual 4.2” TFT driver’s meters also feature PHV-specific graphics. The Prius Plug-in Hybrid instrument panel may be further identified through high-quality, satin chrome-plated ornamentation on the white base of the shift panel.

The new Toyota PHV shares the same new front seat design as the Prius, which offers improved seat cushion comfort to reduce driving fatigue. Maximising occupant space and the quality of the on-board environment, rear accommodation comprises two seats separated by a central console.

The luggage deck has been raised by 160 mm to accommodate the larger plug-in hybrid system battery, with maximum loadspace volume now 360 litres.

Advanced Technology for Greater Efficiency

Every aspect of the advanced technology aboard the new Prius Plug-in Hybrid has been designed to improve the efficiency of the vehicle’s PHV powertrain, and to promote an environmentally-conscientious lifestyle.

The successful development of technology first revealed on the Auris HSD concept in 2010, the roof of the new Toyota PHV can incorporate a large solar panel which generates electricity to charge the hybrid system battery.

When the vehicle is parked (but not plugged in to a charging socket), the solar roof charges a solar battery which, when fully charged, delivers a pumping charge to the main HV battery.

During driving, the solar charging system charges the 12 volt auxiliary battery, compensating for auxiliary load and thereby reducing the energy consumption of the main HV battery.

Solar charging can increase the EV driving range of the new Prius Plug-in Hybrid by up to maximum 5 km per day, equating to some 1,000 km of all-electric driving per annum.

The range of driving modes available now includes a Battery Charge Mode which uses the engine to generate electricity and charge the battery when the vehicle is operating in HV mode.

The new, dual-zone, gas injection heat pump air-conditioning system is equipped with S-Flow control, which automatically controls the cabin air vents in relation to passenger seat occupancy, maintaining comfort whilst reducing power consumption.

Multi-LED headlamps also reduce power consumption, whilst a CFRP (Carbon Fibre Reinforced Plastic) tailgate -a world first for a mass production vehicle- reduces weight to further enhance the hybrid drive system’s efficiency.

The new Prius Plug-in Hybrid further benefits from a wireless phone charging platform, a large, colour head-up display, a new, Simple Intelligent Parking Assist (S-IPA) system, and an enhanced Toyota Safety Sense system incorporating two features new to the Toyota PHV; Pre-Collision Safety with a pedestrian recognition function, and Full-speed Adaptive Cruise Control, which can slow the car to a standstill when necessary.

TNGA Platform for Responsive, 

Engaging Handling

The Toyota New Global Architecture-based platform plays a defining role in the Plug-in Hybrid’s rewarding driving experience, giving the car a lower centre of gravity compared to the current model, and securing a more engaging driving position and more precise and responsive handling, with less body roll.

These qualities are also enhanced by the Prius Plug-in Hybrid’s new double wishbone rear suspension, which produces one-third the level of shock when driving on uneven roads compared to the current model. To achieve better handling with more direct response, the front MacPherson strut suspension has also been revised.

The significantly improved dynamic characteristics of the new chassis are matched by the more responsive character of the new plug-in full hybrid system. The 83% boost in EV power due to the hybrid transaxle’s Dual Motor Drive System offers drivers highly responsive acceleration characteristics.

Finally - and complimenting the quietness that comes from the improved EV capabilities - a particular focus has been placed on minimising NVH (Noise, Vibration and Harshness). 

The optimum placement of sound suppressing and absorbing materials at the source of noise offers occupants unique levels of cabin quietness.

The TOYOTA FCV PLUS is another vehicle that makes its European debut. With this concept, Toyota examines how future hydrogen cars can contribute to society.

Furthermore, a large section of the stand will be reserved for a full Toyota C-HR display. This C-segment crossover makes its full public debut at Paris, after the exterior design was revealed at this year’s Geneva motor show.

And finally, the Toyota booth will celebrate the launch of TOYOTA GAZOO Racing, the entity that now unites all Toyota motorsports activities under one umbrella, with the aim of placing motorsports central in Toyota’s pursuit to build ever-better cars.

The Toyota booth is located in Hall 4, and will also be the scene for the Toyota Press Conference, scheduled to take place at 13:15 on September 29th.

Toyota pioneered plug-in hybrid technology in Europe; the start of Prius Plug-in Hybrid global sales in 2012 following an extensive 5-year PHEV leasing project.

An evolution of the responsive, intuitive and remarkably quiet hybrid drive system already available on seven other Toyota models, the new Prius Plug-in Hybrid builds on the strengths of the latest generation standard Prius, the latter itself developed with a focus on three key pillars: the Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA)-based platform, design and styling, and a new, full hybrid system.

Ideally suited to customers who want to own a hybrid vehicle but also seek the benefits of extended EV driving, the new Prius Plug-in Hybrid will be available in showrooms throughout the world from the end of the year.

EV Mode-enhanced Hybrid Synergy Drive

With its larger, 8.8 kWh lithium-ion battery pack, the Prius Plug-in Hybrid's Hybrid Synergy Drive powertrain allows drivers to remain in EV mode in more situations, for longer periods of time, helping to improve estimated total driving range on one tank of fuel.

Representing a substantial improvement over its predecessor, the new Prius Plug-in is estimated to return an average fuel consumption figure of only 1.4 l/100 km -the best mpg rating of any current plug-in hybrid- and generate CO2 emissions of just 32 g/km.

Even when not running in EV mode, the Prius Plug-in Hybrid will automatically rely more on its all-electric drive capability in situations where this proves more efficient than running the petrol engine, most notably during urban and suburban driving and on shorter journeys.

The Prius Plug-in Hybrid also features a Toyota-first dual motor/generator drive system, which uses both the electric motor and the generator to produce drive torque, helping boost both acceleration and overall performance.

The new PHEV system further minimises engine use, even when accelerating quickly or using the heater during winter months, through the adoption of a battery heating system to improve cold weather efficiency, and the world's first heat pump air-conditioning system with gas injection.

As a result of these advanced technology enhancements, the new Prius Plug-in Hybrid offers uniquely responsive, class-leading acceleration, will drive at significantly higher speed of up 135 km/h without leaving EV mode, and offers drivers an EV range of over 50 km; approximately twice that of its predecessor.

Charging of the battery pack requires just 2.3 hours using Mode 2 (Mennekes) 230 volt outlet, in spite of the increased battery capacity.

As with any Toyota full hybrid, the Prius-Plug-in Hybrid is capable of running on the petrol engine or electric motor alone, or a seamless combination of both, whilst regenerative braking recaptures electrical energy under deceleration and braking for storage in the battery, further reducing fuel consumption.

The hybrid system's 1.8 litre, 4-cylinder, Atkinson cycle VVT-i petrol engine also plays a key role in the overall efficiency of the new Toyota plug-in hybrid. As a result of the large-volume exhaust gas recirculation system, improvements in combustion efficiency and innovative ways of managing heat and reducing friction, the engine has a maximum 40% thermal efficiency, the highest level in the world for a mass-produced petrol engine.

TNGA Platform for Responsive, Engaging Handling

The Toyota New Global Architecture-based platform plays a defining role in the Plug-in Hybrid’s essential fun-to-drive quality, giving the car a lower centre of gravity compared to the current model, and securing a more engaging driving position and more precise and responsive handling, with less body roll.

These qualities are also enhanced by the Prius Plug-in Hybrid's new double wishbone rear suspension, which produces one-third the level of shock when driving on uneven roads compared to the current model. To achieve better handling with more direct response, the front MacPherson strut suspension has also been revised.

Unique Design Signature

Its chiselled profile and edgy character lines giving it an even more road-hugging stance and a lower centre of gravity, the new Prius Plug-in Hybrid is 165 mm longer, 15 mm wider and some 20 mm lower than its predecessor.

The new TNGA platform has given the designers a freer hand to craft a car that has richer visual appeal, with lower lines overall and a more athletic profile. Allied to the low weight of its high strength bodyshell, the Prius Plug-in Hybrid's wind-cheating body is crucial to the vehicle's astonishingly low energy consumption.

Incorporating advanced aerodynamics such as double bubble rear tailgate glass and automatic grille shutter which help reduce drag by closing when airflow to the radiator is not needed, the vehicle's remarkably low, Cd 0.24 coefficient of drag is expected to be among the lowest for production sedans.

Weight has been kept to a minimum through the extensive use of high-tensile steel in the bodyshell, aluminium for the bonnet, and -a mass-production car world first- the adoption of a CFRP (Carbon Fibre Reinforced Plastic) tailgate.

Confirming its status as a unique derivative of the Prius model range, the Prius Plug-in Hybrid is instantly recognisable by a lighting signature which features model-specific, energy-conserving four lamp LED projector headlight clusters and LED tail lamps.

TNGA also helps define the 'peace-of-mind' interior; with its excellent packaging, a lower and more engaging driving position and higher comfort levels, the four-seat layout, built around a full-cabin-length centre console, is reminiscent of the premium quality interior of a luxury coupe.

The cabin design is advanced, functional and has a powerful visual impact. It inherits the intuitive concept of previous Prius generations by consolidating operational functions closest to the driver and placing the information functions further away.

The dominant centre cluster has a 'floating' design, created using a sculpted and near-invisible rear mounting. The 8" touch-screen allows intuitive operation of the audio and navigation functions, including 'flick' actions to scroll through the displays.

The instrument cluster features dual 4.2-inch full colour TFT (thin film transistor) LCD screens with easy to read displays. The driver can change their content via steering wheel mounted switchgear.

Quietness has always been a distinguishing characteristic of Toyota’s hybrid vehicles and, with a sound-insulating laminated windscreen and front door glazing, the new Prius Plug-in Hybrid provides a cabin environment that exudes a genuine sense of luxury through exceptionally low levels of noise, vibration and harshness.

Toyota's Advanced Technology Flagship

Since the launch of its first generation in Japan in 1997, Prius has maintained its status as Toyota’s technology ambassador, an eco-car that regularly brings valuable next-generation technologies and innovations to the marketplace.

Focusing on a better, safer experience for the driver and occupants, the advanced technological achievements of the latest Prius provide an impressive platform on which the new Prius Plug-in Hybrid is able to make even greater advances.

External advances unique to the new Prius Plug-in Hybrid include energy-conserving four lamp LED projector headlights featuring unique, vehicle speed-sensitive adaptive beam technology. First demonstrated on the 2010 Auris Hybrid concept, an all-new solar roof charging system equipped with a dedicated battery makes a world-first appearance in the new Prius Plug-in Hybrid.

On board, the intelligent S-FLOW automatic air conditioning system is smaller, lighter and uses less power. Quieter thanks to a new electric compressor, it detects whether the front and rear passenger seats are occupied, minimising air flow around any empty seats.

Unique to the Prius Plug-in Hybrid, the system is the world's first to employ a heat pump with gas injection. This allows it to cool or heat the cabin when the vehicle is operating in EV mode, without the engine running. The new Prius Plug-in Hybrid is available with a wireless phone charger, located below the centre stack. Using Qi technology, this allows compatible smartphones to be recharged without having to connect a cable.

A colour head-up display is also available. This projects essential vehicle data and alerts on to the lower section of the windscreen, making information instantly and easily readable without the driver having to take their eyes off the road ahead. Content includes vehicle speed, the state of battery charge, hybrid system status, Adaptive Cruise Control with Full Speed Range Following Function setting and Lane Departure Alert.

The new Prius Plug-in Hybrid further features Toyota’s new Simple Intelligent Parking Assist (S-IPA) system, which uses an array of sensors to identify a viable parallel parking space and, when activated by the driver, steer the car into it. The system can also reverse the vehicle into perpendicular spaces and automatically steer it out of a parallel space.

Finally, the new Prius Plug-in Hybrid showcases the company's significant advance in active and preventive safety measures with the availability of Toyota Safety Sense.

This package of integrated safety features includes a Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection and Automatic Braking; Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist; Full-Speed Adaptive Cruise Control with full stop technology and Automatic High Beam technology. A Blind Spot Monitor and Rear Cross Traffic Alert are also available for additional peace of mind.

These technologies help to reduce the risk of a collision and deliver additional benefits by making life easier for the driver and reducing fatigue.

The Prius plug-in Hybrid will be available in Europe towards the end of the year.