The first mass production electric car

The first mass production electric car

The first mass production electric car

The Toyota Prius was the first mass production electric car; it was initially introduced to its Local Japanese market in as early as 1997. In 2001 the Prius was sold in the USA, grey imports were being exported to the UK, Australia and other countries.

The 2004 new Toyota Prius Hybrid in Newcastle was officially available to order in the UK. It was redesigned as a mid-size liftback, the interior was redesigned to increase rear leg room and boot space.

In 2009 the Prius got a major facelift both inside and outside, the body design is more aerodynamic and drag has been reduced to make it even more fuel efficient. The new model has a combined fuel consumption of 65 mpg; in extra urban driving conditions it's claimed it can achieve 67.3 mpg. It has a 0-60 time of 10.9 seconds and can reach a maximum of 106mph.

The latest model has a 1.8 litre petrol engine along with the Toyota Hybrid system, it produces 98bhp. At low speeds the Prius can operate on the electric motor alone, as the speed increases the petrol engine takes over but the electric motor still provides extra boost when needed. The electric-petrol hybrid system in the Prius works well and feels smoother than other rival hybrids.

Due to its tall roofline and lift back rear the Prius does roll around a little on bends but the grip is there so it's a good balance. At low speeds the ride is very comfortable but like most cars it can feel a bit uncomfortable on rough surfaces. The light steering helps drive the car around town easily, which some would say is its primary objective, at high speeds though the steering does lack feedback.

Being a hybrid the Prius is very quiet, at low speeds when only the electric motor is working you cannot hear the car at all, when the petrol engine does kick it in its very quiet. Toyota has done a good job of keeping wind and road noise out too.

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