Toyota Prius

The Toyota Prius is currently available as a hybrid electric medium sized car designed and developed by the Toyota Motor Corporation. In the United States, the Toyota Prius is the most fuel efficient automobile in not just its segment, but also across the board. It is manufactured according to the guidelines of the United States Environmental Protection Agency to minimize emissions, and maximize safety of the passengers.

First Generation (1997–2001) – NHW10

The first generation Toyota Prius was developed in 1997; it was better known as NHW10. Firstly, it was introduced in Japan and later it was rolled out in the markets of various countries such as New Zealand, Australia, and United Kingdom; but, not US yet.

To hold the Voltage between the electric motor and battery, the semiconductor core inverter setup was made on heavy-duty transistors utilized by the Shinkansen bullet train.

Second Generation (2001–2003) – NHW11

The Toyota Prius developed in 2001 sustained up to 2003 was second generation model. This generation vehicle was motorized by

• a 1.5 liter 4 cylinder gasoline engine,
• a 274-volt nickel-metal hydride (Ni-MH) battery pack, and
• a permanent magnet AC electric motor.

The gasoline drivetrain produced 82 ft-lb (111 N-m) of torque and 70 hp (52 kW) of power, whereas the electric motor could develop 258 ft-lbf (350 N-m) of torque and 44 hp (33 kW) of power.

The NHW11 Prius was the powerful performer that very useful for covering longer distances at higher speeds. Both the motor and engine were enhanced when compared with the earlier models; in this generation, air conditioning came as standard.

Third Generation (2004–2009) – NHW20

The third generation Prius models were developed in 2004 produced, and they dominated the market up to 2009.

For this generation, the previous model was entirely redesigned in a new midsize liftback style. These models were categorized between the Camry and the Corolla with rearranged interior space and mechanical considerably increasing luggage room and rear-seat legroom.

The model was longer than earlier model by about six inches. Its body was designed with more aerodynamic Kammback shape that balanced wind resistance and length resulted in a drag coefficient of 0.26.

The new options on third generation Pirus models were

• a Smart Key System,
• Vehicle Stability Control,
• Bluetooth for hands-free calling, and
• DVD navigation on the MFD.

For Europe and Japan versions, a new Intelligent Parking Assist system was included exclusively.

Latest Prius Series (2009–Present) ZVW30

The latest version Toyota Pirus was introduced in 2009 at the North American International Auto Show. It has aerodynamic body style, with reduced drag coefficient 0.25 Cd. An underbody back fin assists in stabilizing the car at greater speeds, and the fourth generation models are fully loaded with all the safety and luxury amenities seen on other comparable markets available in the market.