prius

The Prius is a line of hybrid electric vehicles produced by Toyota. It is widely regarded as the first mass-produced hybrid car. The first generation was introduced in Japan in 1997, followed by international sales beginning in 2000. The Prius uses Toyota's Hybrid Synergy Drive, combining a gasoline engine with electric motors powered by a rechargeable battery, with the aim of reducing fuel consumption and emissions.

The Prius family includes several body styles and variants: the original Prius Liftback, the Prius C subcompact (known as Aqua in Japan, also sold as Prius C in some markets), the Prius V wagon, and the plug-in hybrid Prius Prime, introduced in 2017. The variants share the Hybrid Synergy Drive technology but target different uses and electric ranges.

Technology and efficiency: The system blends power from the gasoline engine and electric motors through an electronic continuously variable transmission, supplemented by regenerative braking. Battery chemistries have evolved from nickel-metal hydride to lithium-ion in some versions; the plug-in Prius Prime uses a larger battery to enable extended all-electric driving. The Prius has frequently delivered high fuel-efficiency ratings relative to conventional cars.

Market and impact: The Prius has been a major driver in popularizing hybrid technology and influencing automotive design. It has been a best-selling model in several markets and has spurred competitors to develop their own hybrid systems. Critics sometimes point to higher upfront cost and the complexity of maintenance, though total cost of ownership can be favorable due to fuel savings and resale value.