The new Prius with its AWD-e system
30 Nov 2018|2,146 views
The new Prius AWD-e system will certainly deliver added traction and confidence for drivers but, in true Prius fashion, the 2019 AWD-e will lay claim to being one of the most fuel efficient all-wheel-drive-equipped passenger cars available in the U.S. Toyota estimates that the AWD-emodel could account for as much as 25% of annual U.S. Prius sales.
Toyota's AWD-e system is ideal for Prius. The automatic on-demand system does not require a center differential or other torque-apportioning device, nor does it need a front-to-rear driveshaft. Instead, the 'e' in AWD-e stands for electric.
The Prius AWD-e uses an independent electric, magnet-less rear motor (a Toyota first) to power the rear wheels from 0 to 10km/h, then when needed, up to 70km/h. This system provides the power to the rear wheels to pull away from a stop, yet the on-demand system recognises when all-wheel drive performance is not needed to provide great fuel economy.


The AWD-e models use a newly developed compact Nickel Metal Hydride battery that is designed to provide excellent performance in cold-weather conditions. The AWD-e battery fits under the rear seat area and does not impact the luggage capacity. The FWD models will tout a lithium-ion battery.
The Prius AWD-e models offer the same carrying space with the standard 60:40 split rear seatbacks lowered as other Prius models. That's more than in some small SUVs and larger than most full-size sedans. Expanding carrying options, the Prius AWD-e will offer available Genuine Toyota Accessory cargo crossbars for roof rack attachments, such as for carrying bikes, kayaks, snowboards, or a cargo carrier.
The new Prius AWD-e system will certainly deliver added traction and confidence for drivers but, in true Prius fashion, the 2019 AWD-e will lay claim to being one of the most fuel efficient all-wheel-drive-equipped passenger cars available in the U.S. Toyota estimates that the AWD-emodel could account for as much as 25% of annual U.S. Prius sales.
Toyota's AWD-e system is ideal for Prius. The automatic on-demand system does not require a center differential or other torque-apportioning device, nor does it need a front-to-rear driveshaft. Instead, the 'e' in AWD-e stands for electric.
The Prius AWD-e uses an independent electric, magnet-less rear motor (a Toyota first) to power the rear wheels from 0 to 10km/h, then when needed, up to 70km/h. This system provides the power to the rear wheels to pull away from a stop, yet the on-demand system recognises when all-wheel drive performance is not needed to provide great fuel economy.


The AWD-e models use a newly developed compact Nickel Metal Hydride battery that is designed to provide excellent performance in cold-weather conditions. The AWD-e battery fits under the rear seat area and does not impact the luggage capacity. The FWD models will tout a lithium-ion battery.
The Prius AWD-e models offer the same carrying space with the standard 60:40 split rear seatbacks lowered as other Prius models. That's more than in some small SUVs and larger than most full-size sedans. Expanding carrying options, the Prius AWD-e will offer available Genuine Toyota Accessory cargo crossbars for roof rack attachments, such as for carrying bikes, kayaks, snowboards, or a cargo carrier.
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