14 DAY TRIAL // The newest addition to the Toyota Prius family is the Prius Plug-in Hybrid, which has just been introduced to the US customers at this year’s Green Drive Expo and is now available for ordering online. The first-ever Prius Plug-in reportedly brings extended EV driving range and more affordable pricing to the table.
The introduction of the new model follows an extensive test-fleet program involving 125 early prototypes in the United States that helped finalize engineering and improve features for the production version.
Joining the third-generation Prius Liftback and the new Prius v, the new model is expected to achieve a manufacturer-estimated 87 MPGe (miles per gallon equivalent) in combined driving and 49 MPG in hybrid mode.
The 2012 Toyota Prius Plug-in Hybrid is able to roll for up to 15 miles at speeds up to 62 mph (100 k/h) in pure electric mode. Naturally, the system switches to full hybrid mode under full acceleration.
The model comes with a newly developed 4.4 kWh lithium-ion (Li-ion) battery pack that replaces the standard Prius model's nickel metal hydride (NiMH) battery, while making it just slightly heavier. It also adds an easy-to-use external charging cable.
Another exciting feature worth mentioning is the new Entune multimedia system that Toyota has fitted the new Prius Plug-in with. Available smartphone apps include Charge Management, Remote Air Conditioning System, Charging Station Map, Vehicle Finder and Eco Dashboard.
A full charge using an external AC outlet takes approximately 2.5 to 3.0 hours using a 120v household outlet or 1.5 hours using a 240v outlet. The included 120v charging cable connects to the charging port inlet located on the right-rear fender.
What’s more, the new Prius Plug-in Hybrid is a ‘green’ vehicle all around, from production and driving, through eventual disposal and dismantling. The company claims it uses plant-derived, carbon-neutral plastics, in the seat cushion foam, cowl side trim, inner and outer scuff plates, and deck trim cover.
As compared to the standard Prius model, the Plug-in will come available in five exterior colors, including the new Clearwater Blue. Customers will also be able to choose from two trim levels, Standard and Advanced.
Pricing starts at USD 32,000 (about EUR 23,200 at the current exchange rate), and orders can be placed by following this link.
For an easy guide to ordering your own 2012 Toyota Prius Plug-in Hybrid check out the video below: