subject: New Prius Gets Plug In Government Grant [print this page] The Toyota Prius models up till today have not been classed as an Electric Vehicle, so fell in the same category as a cheap Toyota Aygo in Dorset. The newest Prius however falls into the EV car category, this is because its primary drive train is the electric motor and the petrol engine is a back up.
The Toyota Prius has gain recognition from the UK Government as an electric vehicle, it has been announced that the new Prius meets the Governments criteria for the Plug-in Car Grant, by which people buying the car will receive up to 5,000 towards its cost. This is a massive accomplishment for Toyota as this will help it play on even grounds with other EV competitors.
Jon Williams, Toyota Managing Director, said: "I welcome today's announcement which demonstrates that Toyota's advanced, user friendly plug-in technology is recognised as having significant potential to make a valuable contribution to the UK's low carbon transport strategy.
One of the deciding factors in awarding the Prius this status is that the Prius Plug-in is equipped with a compact and powerful lithium-ion battery that enables the car to run on electric power alone for up to 12.5 miles and at speeds up to 62mph with zero fuel consumption and zero tailpipe emissions.
Because of its ability to run further on battery power alone, it achieves exceptional combined cycle fuel efficiency, with an official 108.6mpg and CO2 emission of 59g/km, figures that are a 30% improvement on the standard, third-generation Toyota Prius.
