Toyota Prius

Prius goes it alone as a range

Just as the Fiesta name may be axed, so the Prius badge could be about to expand

Auto Express Car Reviews

21st May 2007

Auto Express has learned that Toyota is considering naming an entire range after its hi-tech hybrid car - in the same way as it created the Lexus badge for its most expensive machines.

Sources say the company is planning to launch three new dual-power models, starting in 2009. Currently, Toyota engineers call these cars the Prius A, B and C. The A will be a Yaris-sized supermini and the B is planned to be a compact hatchback similar to the current Auris. Meanwhile, the C will be a family model in the same class as the Avensis.

Although Toyota cars will continue to have their trademark conservative styling, launching a new Prius range would allow top brass at the firm to give their petrol-electric vehicles a more adventurous look. The new family's styling is likely to be heavily influenced by the Hybrid X concept car, which was unveiled for the first time at the Geneva Motor Show in March.

A company insider confirmed: "The exterior design won't be as controversial as that of the first-generation Prius. However, the intention is for these cars to stand out from the crowd. We need to strike a balance between a shape that's attractive and has room under the floor for the hybrid system's batteries, plus space for five people and their luggage."

Engineers have apparently ruled out making a hybrid people carrier for now because they have been unable to accommodate the batteries in a design that buyers would expect to feature a flat floor. This could change with the use of new compact lithium-ion battery technology.