Παρίσι 2016: Η Toyota έφερε στην Ευρώπη το Prius plug-in

H Toyota στα τέλη του περασμένου Μαρτίου παρουσίασε την plug-in hybrid έκδοση του Prius, η οποία πλέον κάνει το ευρωπαϊκό της ντεμπούτο στην έκθεση του Παρισιού. Στην Αμερική, όπου και πρωτοπαρουσίαστηκε, ονομάζεται Prime, αλλά αυτό δεν θα ακολουθηθεί και στην Ευρώπη.

Η νέα προσθήκη στη γκάμα του παγκοσμίως best-seller υβριδικού αποκτά απλά το όνομα Plug-in

Βελτιωμένη είναι αεροδυναμική του, καθώς ο αεροδυναμικός του συντελεστής είναι μόλις στο Cd 0,25. Βασίζεται και αυτό στην νέα TNGA πλατφόρμα της εταιρίας, και έχει μήκος 4.645 χλστ., πλάτος 1.760 χλστ. και 1.470 χλστ. ύψος, κάτι που σημαίνει ότι έχει μεγαλώσει σε όλες τις διαστάσεις σε σύγκριση με το απερχόμενο μοντέλο.

Μηχανικά, εξοπλίζεται με τον ίδιο κινητήρα εσωτερικής καύσης, τον 1.8-λίτρων 2ZR-FXZ που λειτουργεί σε κύκλο Atkinson, με απόδοση 105 άλογα και 147 Nm ροπή, 40% θερμικής απόδοσης, και συνδυάζεται με μια μεγαλύτερη μπαταρία ιόντων-λιθίου χωρητικότητας 8,8 kWh, που επιτρέπει στο υβριδικό σύστημα να λειτουργεί ως καθαρά ηλεκτρικό σε περισσότερες καταστάσεις, βελτιώνοντας έτσι την κατανάλωση του, καθώς και την αυτονομία του, η οποία δηλώνεται στα 965 χλμ., με το ρεζερβουάρ καυσίμου στα 43 λίτρα.

Η Toyota δεν αναφέρει την συνολική ισχύ του συστήματος, αλλά τοποθετεί για πρώτη φορά σε μοντέλο της μια διπλή γεννήτρια μετάδοσης κίνησης, η οποία χρησιμοποιεί τόσο το ηλεκτρικό μοτέρ όσο και τη γεννήτρια ως κινητήρια δύναμη, βοηθώντας την καλύτερη επιτάχυνση, ενώ διαθέτει και σύστημα ανάκτηση ενέργειας κατά την επιβράδυνση και το φρενάρισμα. Η φόρτιση των μπαταριών γίνεται από σπιτική παροχή ρεύματος και χρειάζεται 5,5-ώρες με δίκτυο έντασης 120V και λιγότερο από το μισό σε δίκτυο 240V. Αυτές έχουν χωρητικότητα 8,8 kWh, ζυγίζουν 120 κιλά, ενώ καταλαμβάνουν όγκο 145 λίτρων κάτω από τα πίσω καθίσματα.

Η μέση κατανάλωση του ανακοινώνεται στο μόλις 1 λίτρο/100 χλμ, κορυφαία τιμή σε οποιοδήποτε PHEV μοντέλο, με την Toyota να δηλώνει ότι εκπέμπει μόλις 22 γρ/χλμ CO2. Η ηλεκτρική αυτονομία φτάνει τα 35 χλμ/ώρα, με την μέγιστη ταχύτητα όταν κινείται με ηλεκτρισμό να φτάνει τα 135 χλμ/ώρα.

Η Toyota αρχικά είχε προγραμματίσει να ξεκινήσει τις πωλήσεις του Prius Prime στην Ιαπωνία από το φθινόπωρο, αλλά τελικά αυτές θα ξεκινήσουν τον ερχόμενο χειμώνα. Τους λόγους της καθυστέρησης δεν τους ανακοίνωσε η ιαπωνική εταιρία, με την plug-in υβριδική έκδοση του Prius, αρχικά να προσφέρεται μόνο σε τετραθέσια διάταξη, ενώ αργότερα θα προστεθεί και η πενταθέσια. Θα είναι διαθέσιμο και με φωτοβολταϊκή οροφή, με τα πάνελ να μπορούν να τροφοδοτήσουν με ενέργεια και τη μπαταρία 8,8 kWh του αυτοκινήτου και όχι μόνο το σύστημα κλιματισμού του, όπως γινόταν στη προηγούμενη γενιά.

Τέλος, στο περίπτερο της Toyota υπάρχει και το υδρογονοκίνητο πρωτότυπο FCV Plus, που είδαμε πέρσι στο Τόκιο. Αυτό δείχνει ότι η εταιρία είναι έτοιμη να βάλει στο χρονοντούλαπο της ιστορίας του diesel κινητήρες, γι’αυτό εξάλλου αποφάσισε να μην προσφέρει με τέτοιο κινητήρα το C-HR.

[See image gallery at www.autoblog.gr]

Toyota: 29 Sep 2016PRIUS PLUG-IN HYBRIDThe New Benchmark in Fuel Efficiency

Combining all the attributes of the new, full hybrid, TNGA (Toyota New Global Architecture)-platformed, fourth generation Prius with a class-leading all-electric EV driving mode range, and showcasing several highly innovative new technologies, the new Prius Plug-in Hybrid makes its European debut at the 2016 Paris Motor Show.

Paris, France – Toyota was the first company to offer the world PHV (Plug-in Hybrid Vehicle) technology. Today, with the launch of the second generation Prius Plug-in Hybrid, it is taking a further step towards its goal of reducing whole fleet CO2 emissions by 90%* by 2050 through the use of HV (Hybrid Vehicle) PHV, EV (Electric Vehicle) and FCV (Fuel Cell Vehicle) technologies.A powerful response to customer feedback on the first generation Prius Plug-in Hybrid, Toyota’s new PHV is not only a significant evolution of the latest generation Prius, but also a truly unique vehicle in its own right.It features numerous sophisticated technological breakthroughs, including a Dual Motor EV drive system, a battery warming system and two world firsts – EV range-extending solar roof, and gas injection heat pump auto air-conditioning.With an EV range doubled to over 50 km and maximum EV speed increased from 85 to 135 km/h, the new Prius Plug-in Hybrid represents a huge leap forwards in efficiency, driving performance, innovation and styling, whilst remaining true to Toyota’s goal of creating the ultimate eco car.

State-of-the-Art PHV Technology, Impressive EV Driving ExperienceAt the heart of the new Prius Plug-in Hybrid is the latest generation of Toyota’s advanced PHV technology. It offers customers two cars in one; an even more sophisticated full hybrid powertrain and a real, all-electric EV driving experience with double the range of the previous generation model.This significant increase in EV driving range is based on technological improvements in three key areas: optimum battery development, maximising EV driving performance and increasing recharging speed to enhance convenience.Located under the rear loadspace, a large capacity lithium-ion battery is fundamental to the new Toyota PHV’s significantly improved 50 km EV range. Battery volume has been increased from 87 to 145 litres, its energy capacity doubled from 4.4 to 8.8 kWh and yet, at 120 kg, it’s just 50% heavier than its predecessor.EV power has also been increased by some 83% thanks to the development of the Toyota’s first hybrid powertrain to feature a Dual Motor Drive System. A new, highly-compact one-way clutch within the transaxle allows the hybrid system generator to act as a second electric motor. This boosts EV driving power to 68 kW for better acceleration and an even more engaging performance, whilst greatly reducing engine start up frequency.The further minimising of engine usage whilst the Prius Plug-in Hybrid is operating in EV drive mode is assured through the enhanced efficiency of the new PHV system, which builds on the 4th generation full hybrid technology powering the new Prius with several sophisticated new technologies.Another world first, the auto air-conditioning is now powered by a gas-injection heat pump which will heat the cabin in outside temperatures as low as -10 degrees C, without starting the engine, hence minimising the impact which heating the interior has on EV driving range.Far more efficient than engine heating or high power electric water heaters, the heat pump can efficiently warm the interior using heat absorbed from the outside air. Mounted to the heat pump system, the gas-injection mechanism ensures heating performance even when outside temperatures are low.Moreover, during charging, a new battery warming system will warm the cells to an efficient working temperature in outside conditions as cold as -20 degrees C. This ensures that both battery power and efficiency are maintained at a sufficient level to minimise the impact of cold weather on EV driving range, with full power available from start off in even very cold conditions.Its maximum charging power increased from 2 to 3.3 kW, the battery itself can be fully charged up to 65% more quickly; in only 2 hours using the Type II Mode III Mennekes connector, and 3 hours and 10 minutes using a standard household plug socket. The charging process is now programmable weekly on a day-by-day basis, and includes the facility to simultaneously charge and pre-cool or pre-heat the cabin.The full hybrid drive system’s new transaxle is combined with a new, highly efficient PCU system control unit to give the Prius Plug-in Hybrid extraordinary overall operating efficiency. It combines improved EV and HV driving performance with a targeted average fuel consumption of only 1.0* l/100km and CO2 emissions of just 22* g/km.

Striking, Stand-alone, Aerodynamic StylingSharing the TNGA (Toyota New Global Architecture) platform of the latest Prius, the new Prius Plug-in Hybrid’s striking, highly aerodynamic design builds on the iconic Prius profile with unique styling elements which hint at the advanced technology within.At 4,645 mm long, 1,760 mm wide and 1,470 mm high, the new Toyota PHV is 165 mm longer, 15 mm wider and 20 mm lower than its predecessor, with front and rear overhangs lengthened by 25 mm and 80 mm respectively, over the 4th generation Prius. A reduction in cowl height and in rear spoiler height further emphasises the car’s long, sleek side silhouette and low centre of gravity.A powerful evolution of Toyota’s Under Priority and Keen Look design themes, the front of the new Prius Plug-in Hybrid is instantly recognisable from the standard Prius through a highly three-dimensional acrylic grille treatment and thin, ultra-compact 4-LED headlamp units featuring new adaptive technology.The strong forward projection of the grille is emphasised by the highly aerodynamic sculp-ting of the bumper sides, whilst the vertical location of the Daytime Running Lights (DRL) and LED turn indicators at the extreme edges of the front fenders reinforce the low, wide, ground-hugging stance of the vehicle.In profile, the Prius Plug-in Hybrid may be identified not only by its longer rear overhang and lower cowl and rear spoiler heights, but also by PHV-specific, two-tone 15” alloy wheels designed to enhance brake cooling.To the rear, the cross-sectional shape of the PHV-unique, aerodynamics-enhancing, ‘double-bubble’ rear screen is carried into the curve of the rear spoiler, at the extremities of which are integrated rear LED light clusters, again unique to the Toyota PHV.A comprehensive aerodynamics package is key to achieving the fuel consumption reducing benefits of a remarkably low, class-leading drag coefficient of only Cd 0.25.The new Toyota PHV builds on the already highly efficient aerodynamics of the latest Prius with a lower roof and rear spoiler height, an enlarged area of underbody covers, airflow rectifying front and rear bumper corners, the double-bubble rear screen and aero stabiliser fins built into the rear combination lamps.In addition, the new Prius Plug-in Hybrid features a shutter built into the lower front grille, which is automatically opened or closed to optimise the flow of cooling air into the engine bay, reducing air resistance.When the engine is cold, the grille shutter is closed to suppress engine cooling airflow and shorten the engine warm-up time, contributing to lower fuel consumption.

‘Iconic Human Tech’ Interior DesignThe new Prius Plug-in Hybrid shares the dashboard design of the latest Prius; a clear, structural arrangement of layered information which places the driver’s meters at distance and the displays close at hand.However, the new Toyota PHV benefits from a larger, 8” infotainment screen with updated, 2016 graphics. The dual 4.2” TFT driver’s meters also feature PHV-specific graphics. The Prius Plug-in Hybrid instrument panel may be further identified through high-quality, satin chrome-plated ornamentation on the white base of the shift panel.The new Toyota PHV shares the same new front seat design as the Prius, which offers improved seat cushion comfort to reduce driving fatigue. Maximising occupant space and the quality of the on-board environment, rear accommodation comprises two seats separated by a central console.The luggage deck has been raised by 160 mm to accommodate the larger plug-in hybrid system battery, with maximum loadspace volume now 360 litres.

Advanced Technology for Greater EfficiencyEvery aspect of the advanced technology aboard the new Prius Plug-in Hybrid has been designed to improve the efficiency of the vehicle’s PHV powertrain, and to promote an environmentally-conscientious lifestyle.The successful development of technology first revealed on the Auris HSD concept in 2010, the roof of the new Toyota PHV can incorporate a large solar panel which generates electricity to charge the hybrid system battery.When the vehicle is parked (but not plugged in to a charging socket), the solar roof charges a solar battery which, when fully charged, delivers a pumping charge to the main HV battery.During driving, the solar charging system charges the 12 volt auxiliary battery, compensating for auxiliary load and thereby reducing the energy consumption of the main HV battery.Solar charging can increase the EV driving range of the new Prius Plug-in Hybrid by up to maximum 5 km per day, equating to some 1,000 km of all-electric driving per annum.The range of driving modes available now includes a Battery Charge Mode which uses the engine to generate electricity and charge the battery when the vehicle is operating in HV mode.The new, dual-zone, gas injection heat pump air-conditioning system is equipped with S-Flow control, which automatically controls the cabin air vents in relation to passenger seat occupancy, maintaining comfort whilst reducing power consumption.Multi-LED headlamps also reduce power consumption, whilst a CFRP (Carbon Fibre Reinforced Plastic) tailgate -a world first for a mass production vehicle- reduces weight to further enhance the hybrid drive system’s efficiency.The new Prius Plug-in Hybrid further benefits from a wireless phone charging platform, a large, colour head-up display, a new, Simple Intelligent Parking Assist (S-IPA) system, and an enhanced Toyota Safety Sense system incorporating two features new to the Toyota PHV; Pre-Collision Safety with a pedestrian recognition function, and Full-speed Adaptive Cruise Control, which can slow the car to a standstill when necessary.

TNGA Platform for Responsive,Engaging HandlingThe Toyota New Global Architecture-based platform plays a defining role in the Plug-in Hybrid’s rewarding driving experience, giving the car a lower centre of gravity compared to the current model, and securing a more engaging driving position and more precise and responsive handling, with less body roll.These qualities are also enhanced by the Prius Plug-in Hybrid’s new double wishbone rear suspension, which produces one-third the level of shock when driving on uneven roads compared to the current model. To achieve better handling with more direct response, the front MacPherson strut suspension has also been revised.The significantly improved dynamic characteristics of the new chassis are matched by the more responsive character of the new plug-in full hybrid system. The 83% boost in EV power due to the hybrid transaxle’s Dual Motor Drive System offers drivers highly responsive acceleration characteristics.Finally – and complimenting the quietness that comes from the improved EV capabilities – a particular focus has been placed on minimising NVH (Noise, Vibration and Harshness).The optimum placement of sound suppressing and absorbing materials at the source of noise offers occupants unique levels of cabin quietness.

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TOYOTA FCV PLUSPreparing the Hydrogen Society

Fuel cell vehicles are often referred to as the ultimate in environment-friendly vehicles. But in a future in which fuel cell vehicles abound, cars will not only be energy users. Toyota’s aim is to add an all-new sense of purpose to the automobile by turning fuel cell vehicles from “energy users” into “energy makers”.

Paris, France – Not only will these zero emission vehicles reduce the burden on the environment, but they’ll also be able to produce and provide energy. The TOYOTA FCV PLUS is a fuel cell vehicle that has accomplished this transition and can contribute to society by being part of the electric power-generating infrastructure.

The 3 roles of TOYOTA FCV PLUSUsing the vehicle to convert clean hydrogen into electricity can help protect the environment and serve as an important way to address energy security issues:– Generating electricity from hydrogenIn addition to having hydrogen in its own hydrogen tank, TOYOTA FCV PLUS can also generate electricity directly from hydrogen stored outside the vehicle. The vehicle can thus be transformed into a stable source of electric power for use at home or away.– Sharing generated electricity with othersWhile parked, TOYOTA FCV PLUS can provide electricity stored on-board to other cars and to local power grids as part of the local infrastructure.– Supporting electricity generation into the futureBeyond just being used in an automobile, the fuel cell stack of TOYOTA FCV PLUS can be removed and reused as an electricity generating device, transcending the traditional functions of cars. Put to versatile use around the world, these stacks could contribute significantly to local communities.

A compact city commuterMiniaturizing the TOYOTA FCV PLUS’ fuel cell stack and other components of the fuel cell system helped make possible a light and compact vehicle that’s ideal for city use. Fuel efficiency is enhanced by advanced aerodynamics which have been applied to the vehicle’s underside as well. Built-in wireless battery charging panels, covering the rear wheels and under the floor at the front, allow for intelligent external charging of other vehicles or infrastructure. Words and symbols can be displayed on the windshield and rear window to help others recognize the vehicle’s status.The drive components have been downsized and positioned at the vehicle’s four corners to achieve a layout that maximizes interior space. The small fuel cell stack fits between the front wheels, while the hydrogen tank rests behind the rear seats. Together with the adoption of independent in-wheel motor in all four wheels, this allows the TOYOTA FCV PLUS to have both the overall length of a compact car and the interior length of a large sedan. By concentrating functional parts at the front and the rear of the vehicle, this next-generation fuel cell vehicle package creates an optimal weight balance and excellent all-round visibility.The interior trim and seats feature the same advanced 3D processing and other techniques that give the car its exceedingly dimensional, light and highly rigid skeletal structure.