Toyota took the wraps off the 2017 Prius Prime plug-in hybrid at the 2016 New York auto show, and it will be the most advanced Prius yet once it goes on sale in all 50 states in fall 2016.
Like the standard Prius Hybrid, the Prius Prime features the extensive use of high-strength steel in its construction to keep the body lightweight and strong. Aluminum and carbon fiber also helped keep the car’s weight in check. The hood, for example, is made of aluminum, and the rear hatch is built out of carbon fiber. As a result, the Prius Prime is expected to have one of the lowest drag coefficients among sedans. To help it cheat the wind even better, the Prius Prime also comes with automatic grille shutters for better aerodynamics when the radiator doesn’t need cooling.
Delivering exceptional fuel economy remains the Prius Prime’s primary mission, and with the same revised hybrid powertrain as the standard car, it promises to have excellent EV range and the ability to travel 600 miles before needing to refuel.
