2010 Toyota Prius Hybrid Car

By: Andy Hodges
Staff Writer
Published: Oct 5, 2009

Third-Generation 2010 Toyota Prius Hybrid Car

Toyota Motor Sales released the 2010 Prius in April 2009. The 2010 Prius has been well received by the mainstream consumer. It is one of the most popular Hybrid cars on the road today. The vehicle also delivers the best fuel economy in its class.

Toyota Prius offers a combined mileage rating of 51 MPG (miles per gallon). The automobile is the top-selling Hybrid in Japan and soaring in the United States. It has a distinctive bulky-shape design, but it is unique, and offers state-of-the-art aerodynamics. The driver can also receive feedback, from the multi-information display panel, which can provide help to acquire economical driving habits.

The Toyota Prius outputs ultra-low emissions and is quieter and roomier in comparison to previous Toyota models. The car makes use of an electric water pump and a new exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) system, which contributes to the engine's efficiency. It comes with a 1.8-liter Atkinson-cycle engine that will power the vehicle on four-cylinders. The engine is also used to recharge the Hybrid battery.

The Prius electric motor is called a Permanent Magnet Synchronous motor that can output 80 horsepower with a 153 lb-ft torque. The Hybrid system net output is 134 horsepower. When the electric motor is in use, it will automatically turn-off the four-cylinder gasoline engine. The transition from the gas engine to electric is smooth and hardly noticeable. The automobile offers three fuel-efficient alternatives for driving that include EV-Drive Mode, Power Mode, and an Eco Mode.

Electric components for the vehicle are known as the Hybrid Synergy Drive system. In comparison to previous models, the system is 90 percent newly-developed with significant improvements. The trans-axle is lighter in weight and reduces torque losses by as much as 20 percent. The inverter, which converts direct current to alternating current, has a new direct cooling system to reduce size and weight.

In addition, the Toyota car offers many innovations not seen in other Hybrids. It has a solar moon-roof that collects energy from the sun. When in direct sunlight, the energy is used to power the vehicle's interior ventilation system. This is free energy that could also be used in future models to power accessories such as door locks and windows.

The Toyota Prius has also adopted a new electronic controlled braking system. This system includes control logic that optimizes and enhances brake regeneration. The electric system will collect lost energy from braking and store it in the Hybrid battery for later use. The battery pack is NiMH (nickel-metal hydride).

You can also save money and time with the 2010 Prius. For example, the Toyota vehicle requires no belts under the hood to replace or maintain. This is also a benefit for the environment and does increase fuel efficiency.

Overall, you can't go wrong with the 2010 Toyota Prius. It is a reliable car that was introduced more than 10 years ago. It is a top-selling automobile where many people have saved money at the pump.