Introduction
Introduction Toyota has just launched its all-new 2023 Prius Prime or plug-in hybrid in Japan. The company boasts that the new model has 75% more EV range compared to the previous model, making it a game-changer in the plug-in hybrid market. This article will delve into the details of the new Prius Prime and how it will fare in the North American market.
The 2023 Toyota Prius Prime has undergone a significant redesign compared to its predecessor. The car’s front grille is more prominent, giving it a bolder and more aggressive look. The car’s headlights have also been redesigned, now featuring LED lights. The Prius Prime’s taillights have also been upgraded, featuring a new design with LED lighting.
Toyota Prius Debut
The Toyota Prius debuted in 1997 and has since been a pioneer in the development of hybrid and electric vehicles. Its name comes from the Latin word for Pioneer, and its impact on the automotive industry is undeniable. Toyota has sold a total of 20.3 million hybrids globally, reducing CO2 emissions by approximately 162 million tons. The Prius opened up a viable alternative to gasoline and diesel, leading to the adoption and development of hybrid technology by the entire automotive industry.
Toyota Prius Evolution
The Evolution of Toyota Prius Since the launch of the first-generation Prius, Toyota has been a leader in the development of hybrid vehicles. In North America alone, Toyota has sold more than 5.2 million hybrid vehicles, reducing emissions by approximately 82 million tons. However, Prius’s greatest achievement lies not only in those numbers but in the fact that it opened up a viable alternative to gasoline and diesel.
Rise of EVs
The Rise of EVs In 2022, times have changed, and not a day goes by without the talk of the road to carbon neutrality. In addition to hybrids, Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs) are achieving major technological breakthroughs and solidifying their position as the standard for the future. Toyota has embraced BEVs as a critical part of its product portfolio, introducing a full lineup of exciting electric vehicles that meet the diverse needs of its global customers.
Why Keep Making Hybrids?
Despite the rise of BEVs, Toyota insists that hybrid vehicles like the Prius must continue to be made. The Prius is an eco-car that is within everyone’s reach. In order to achieve carbon neutrality, everyone in the world must participate, and we need ecological solutions that are within the reach of many.
Prius Prime Grades and Prices 2023
Prius Prime Grades and Prices The official launch date for Prius Prime in Japan is March 15th, with only one grade available. However, North America will have three grades: SE, XSE, and XSE Premium. The estimated prices for these grades are as follows:
| Grade | Estimated Price |
|---|---|
| SE | $29,000 |
| XSE | $32,000 |
| XSE Premium | $36,000 |
Note that these are estimated prices, and they may vary slightly when the official pricing is released.
2023 Toyota Prius Prime Interior
The interior of the 2023 Prius Prime has also undergone significant changes. The dashboard has been redesigned, featuring a new infotainment system and a 12.3-inch touchscreen display. The car’s seats have also been upgraded, featuring a new design that is both more comfortable and stylish.
2023 Prius Prime Safety Features
The 2023 Toyota Prius Prime comes equipped with a wide range of safety features, including Toyota’s Safety Sense suite of driver-assistance technologies. These technologies include adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking. The car’s rearview camera has also been upgraded, featuring a wider field of view for improved visibility.
Range
Miles per Gallon and EV Range Toyota claims that the new Prius Prime has 75% more EV range than the previous model. In the Japanese market, the 19-inch wheels version gets 28.6 kilometers per liter, which converts to 67 miles per gallon. However, in the North American EPA cycle, it works out to be 52 miles per gallon, indicating a 22% drop in efficiency.
Wheel
For the 19-inch wheel version in North America, the official figure is 26 kilometers per liter, which is equivalent to 47 miles per gallon. When the battery is fully depleted, drivers can expect to get around 47-48 miles per gallon. However, if you opt for the smaller 17-inch wheels, the mileage goes up significantly to 55 miles per gallon.
EV Range
As for the EV range, Toyota has not released the official numbers yet. However, it is estimated that the new Prius Prime will have at least 50% more driving range than the previous model. With the 19-inch wheels, drivers can expect to get around 42 miles of range, while the 17-inch wheels can provide up to 50 miles of range on the EPA cycle.
Power Output
The new Prius Prime boasts an impressive 100 horsepower increase compared to the outgoing model, with 161 horsepower to the front wheels just from the electric motor. This means that when driving in EV mode, drivers don’t have to be stuck with the current 70-horsepower limit.
Regeneration Boost Mode
The new Prius Prime also features a Regeneration Boost Mode, which is useful when driving on mountain roads or in other situations that require frequent switching between accelerating and braking. When activated, this function provides stronger regenerative braking force than normal, delivering responsive driving performance while reducing the frequency of switching between accelerator and brake pedals.
External Power Adapter
The new Prius Prime comes with an optional 1500-watt external power adapter that can provide electricity for up to five days in the event of a blackout. This feature makes Prius Prime a reliable source of backup power, especially during hurricane season in areas prone to power outages.
Solar Roof
The new Prius Prime also features a solar roof, which Toyota claims can provide up to 5 miles of range per day when exposed to the sun. However, the cost of this feature is around $2,100, which may not be practical for most buyers.
Conclusion
The new 2023 Prius Prime is an impressive vehicle that offers a range of features designed to make it more efficient and environmentally friendly. With an estimated range of up to 42 miles in EV mode and an estimated fuel economy of up to 55 miles per gallon when using the smaller 17-inch wheels, this car is sure to attract a lot of attention from environmentally conscious drivers. The new features such as the regeneration boost mode and the external power adapter make the vehicle even more attractive. However, the high cost of the solar roof may be a deterrent for some buyers.
Overall, the new Prius Prime represents a significant improvement over its predecessor, and we can’t wait to see it in action on the roads of North America. While we await the official USA details, the Japanese official details give us a good idea of what to expect. With its combination of impressive range, fuel economy, and power, the Prius Prime is sure to be a popular choice among drivers who are looking for an environmentally friendly vehicle that doesn’t skimp on performance.
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Grades | Japan: 1; North America: SE, XSE, XSE Premium |
| Fuel Efficiency | 19-inch wheel Prius Prime: 47-48 mpg; 17-inch wheel Prius Prime: 55 mpg |
| EV Range | Estimated at least 42 miles, potentially up to 50 miles |
| Power | 161 horsepower to front wheels |
| Additional Features | Regeneration boost mode, optional external power adapter |
Read Also: The 2023 BMW M2 Coupe (G87)
