Toyota Prius Plug-In Hybrid to debut at Frankfurt

Toyota has been testing the Prius Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicle for a while now, and the Japanese carmaker has now announced that the production version will be launched at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September, before going on sale in selected markets over the next two years.

The addition of a compact lithium-ion battery with plug-in capability increases both the efficiency as well as the car's all-electric driving range to around 21km at speeds of up to 100km/h. Once the battery is depleted the Prius Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicle reverts to its hybrid mode and operates as a regular Prius. According to Toyota, the Prius Plug-in Hybrid vehicle can be fully charged in approximately three hours from a standard 110-volt electrical outlet, and in 90 minutes with a 220-volt connection.

"While some debate the relative merits of electric cars, the new Prius Plug-in Hybrid offers drivers the best of both worlds; extended EV driving range for shorter journeys in towns and cities, while the efficient hybrid petrol engine gives the car uncompromised long range capability and the very low fuel consumption of the standard Prius," Toyota said in a statement.