New Toyota “runaways” now include Prius?

Erika — Tue, 16 Mar 2010 21:14:44 +0000

Recent Toyota recalls for hazardous floor-mats, sticking throttles, and most recently for braking issues experienced in the Prius and the Lexus HS250h have been the topic of conversation for quite some time now. The controversy seemed to have reached a boiling point as Congressional hearings were held allowing interested parties to share their perspectives regarding safety problems with Toyota Vehicles. By the close of the hearings, Toyota recalls had been making headlines for months and Toyota Motors had already spent a fortune on repairs and a highly visible public relations campaign. It started to seem like we’d finally be able to shift our attention elsewhere. Unfortunately, it’s pretty difficult to move on while we’re still hearing reports of “runaway Toyotas”. Just in case you haven’t been following the news of late, here are a couple of reports related to recent incidents:

*PLEASE NOTE – The runaway Toyota Prius reports are especially concerning because the Prius was a late invitee to the recall party, and were recalled specifically for braking issues, and NOT for instances of sudden acceleration. Also, the most publicized Prius incident occurred in Southern California, where 4 died in a “runaway” Lexus ES350 crash that played a huge roll in putting the spotlight on safety concerns surrounding Toyota cars.

Next Generation Green Car – 2010 Toyota Prius Returns with HSD

Erika — Tue, 12 May 2009 06:12:27 +0000

2010 Toyota Prius

With the 2010 Prius, Toyota takes another step forward in eco-friendly motoring. The car is equipped with Toyota’s most advanced hybrid automobile technology – the Hybrid Synergy Drive (HSD). With HSD, Toyota excels in producing powerful full-hybrid vehicles, improving upon the single or dual mode hybrid cars offered by most competitors.

The core of HSD is a drive-by-wire system that eliminates the conventional mechanical and hydraulic control systems – it doesn’t need a direct connection between the engine and its controls. Instead,HSD uses electro-mechanical actuators that send electrical signals generated from different components of the car to a computerized power control system.

HSD Powertrain of 2010 Toyota Prius

The new 2010 Prius is capable of driving on either gasoline or electric power alone, as well as on a combined power supply. A 1.8L WT-i petrol engine, an electric motor, a high-voltage battery, a power control unit, and a power split mechanism ensure smooth acceleration and an emission free ride. The 2010 model also increases system power output by a hefty 22%.

The 2010 Prius can reach 30mph in electric mode, and boasts an incredible 72.4mpg is attainable from the combined drivetrain. Exceeding the Euro 5 emission standard, the 2010 Toyota Prius is the most efficient green car of the future.

If you’re an owner of an earlier Toyota Prius model, or plan to be, you can get more from your Prius and reduce your impact on the environment by having a company like Plug In Solutions convert yours into a PHEV.

Image courtesy: motiontrends and cars.com

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New Toyota “runaways” now include Prius?

Next Generation Green Car – 2010 Toyota Prius Returns with HSD