(continued)
Hybrid Synergy Drive
Like the original Toyota Hybrid System (THS) employed in the previous generation
Prius model, Hybrid Synergy Drive is defined as a "full hybrid system." Unlike
some competitive systems currently on the market, the full hybrid system is
capable of operating in gas or electric modes, as well as a mode that combines
the power of the gas engine and electric motor.
Compared to the hybrid technology used in the previous model, Hybrid Synergy
Drive provides longer duration of electric-mode-only driving, as well as
significantly higher peak electrical power. A high-voltage power converter
enables Hybrid Synergy Drive to use a 50-percent more powerful 50-kilowatt drive
motor operating at up to 500 volts. In addition, the generator in the new Prius
reaches a higher peak operating speed, which increases electric-mode operation
in city and freeway slow-and-go operation.
Hybrid Synergy Drive combines a 1.5-liter four-cylinder Atkinson Cycle gasoline
engine and an electric drive motor. The gasoline engine for the 2005 Prius
produces 76 horsepower and 82 lb-ft of torque. As on all other Toyota passenger
car engines, Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i) helps to optimize
power delivery across the engine speed range.
The permanent-magnet electric drive motor produces its maximum power of 50 kW
(67 horsepower) from 1200~1540 RPM, and peak torque of 295 lb-ft from 0~1,200
RPM (compared to 33 kW / 44 hp and 258 lb-ft for the previous model).
The electronic continuously variable transmission does not have fixed gear
ratios, but rather provides infinitely variable ratios in response to driving
conditions.
A regenerative braking system further boosts system efficiency. When the Prius
is coasting or the brakes are applied, the electric motor functions as a
generator, capturing kinetic energy that would normally be lost as heat through
the brakes and transforming it into useable electricity to recharge the
batteries.
Driving Prius
One of the most remarkable features of the Toyota Prius is what the driver does
not feel. The computer-controlled powertrain seamlessly blends power from the
gasoline engine, the electric drive motor and the generator. The driver
typically does not feel the vehicle changing operational modes.
The Prius uses an electronically controlled by-wire throttle, which provides
greater precision than a conventional cable-type throttle setup. A by-wire shift
control replaces the traditional gearshift lever and allows tap-of-the-finger
shifting using a small joystick mounted on the dash.
The driver can monitor electric-gas power distribution through the Hybrid
Synergy Drive system on the standard seven-inch touch-panel display monitor.
This screen also displays navigation information on vehicles equipped with the
optional navigation system.
The Most Stringent Emissions Certification
Hybrid Synergy Drive reduces the already scant emissions over the
previous-generation Prius by an additional 30 percent. That equates to producing
nearly 90 percent fewer smog forming emissions than a conventional internal
combustion engine vehicle. The Prius has been certified as a Super Ultra Low
Emission Vehicle (SULEV) in California and those states adopting California
standards. In the rest of the country, Prius is certified as Tier 2, Bin 3.
In addition, in California and states adopting the California rules, Prius is
certified as an Advanced Technology Partial Zero Emissions Vehicle (AT-PZEV).
The AT-PZEV certification requires the SULEV exhaust standard linked with the
ability to meet a zero-fuel-evaporative standard, a 150,000-mile durability
demonstration, extended emissions system warranty, and technology deemed by the
California Air Resources Board (CARB) to advance future fuel cell vehicles.
Safety
Designed to easily accommodate a small family, the 2004 Prius is also engineered
to provide the level of safety a family car buyer demands. Passive safety
features include front seatbelts with pre-tensioners and force limiters, 3-point
seatbelts for all rear seating positions and dual-stage dual front airbags, with
driver and passenger side and side curtain airbags available as an option.
Prius also features a high level of dynamic driving control. The standard
anti-lock brake system (ABS) integrates Brake Assist and Electronic Brake-force
Distribution features, which can help apply maximum braking pressure in an
emergency stop. Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) is available as an option. VSC
helps keep the vehicle going on its intended course by detecting front-wheel
slide and rear-wheel slide during cornering and attempting to control either
condition with torque intervention and/or by braking individual wheels.
Premium Amenities
The 2005 Prius offers the amenities expected in the midsize class, plus some
available options more commonly found in luxury models. The standard automatic
air conditioning system uses an electric-powered air compressor. Not only does
this improve fuel efficiency, it ensures passenger comfort even when the car is
running only on the electric motor.
The steering wheel features fingertip controls for both the air conditioning and
the deluxe AM/FM CD audio system with six speakers, so that the driver does not
have to divert attention from the road to change settings for these systems.
Rear intermittent wiper, cabin air filtration, cruise control, heated side
mirrors, power windows and door locks and remote keyless entry are all standard
on the Prius, making it an outstanding value in comparison to any car in its
price segment.
The high efficiency of the Toyota Hybrid Synergy Drive enables Prius to offer a
wide array of comfort and convenience options.
Customers can choose options such as, an auto-dimming rear view mirror,
anti-theft system, fog lights, garage door opener, high-intensity discharge
(HID) headlights and a JBL Premium AM/FM/cassette/CD audio system with nine
speakers.
The optional navigation system integrates Bluetooth® technology, which provides
a hands-free communication system. Cellular phones with built-in Bluetooth
compatibility allow the driver and passengers to make and receive hands-free
calls. A call can be dialed by using the navigation screen's keypad, while
incoming calls can be answered and ended by pushing a button located on the
steering wheel. When a call comes in, the stereo is automatically muted, so the
driver or passenger does not have to fumble with radio controls. The Prius
stereo speakers act as the phone receiver and transmitter.
First-ever in a Toyota Division vehicle, the optional smart entry and start
system allows hands-free keyless entry and startup. When the driver pulls the
door handle, an on-board sensor recognizes the signal from a key in his pocket
and automatically unlocks the doors. Having been security-cleared, the driver
merely pushes a "start" button located on the dash, taps the gear-selector and
drives away. The system also has a cancellation feature.
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