Used Toyota Prius can be viewed from two sides. On the one hand, it is a symbol of ecology, which has turned into an economical spineless car for traveling from point A to point B. On the other hand, it is an interesting and rather original way to reduce fuel costs.
But what do the vast majority of people really need? To make the car reliable, relatively fast, convenient, safe and consume a minimum of fuel. All these requirements are met by the third generation Toyota Prius.
The manufacturer claims that the Prius is able to get by with 4 liters of gasoline per 100 km. In reality, moving so as not to irritate others, you will need about 6 liters. If you avoid traveling on the highway, then in the city the average consumption will be about 5 liters. Outside the city, where the hybrid drive is no longer useful, and the engine has to push a car with heavy batteries, the cost will be at the level of 7-8 liters.
Practicality is another forte Toyota Prius. There is quite a lot of space inside. But in terms of comfort, things are a little worse. Armchairs do not keep the body from moving, and the seat cushions are short. In addition, it is impossible to properly install the steering wheel. You either have to sit with your arms fully extended or with your legs bent.
You will have to get used to the extremely slow heating of the cabin in the winter. First of all, the engine with high thermal efficiency is to blame for this. The thermal energy it generates is simply not enough for such excesses as crew comfort. To save polar bears, something has to be sacrificed.
Even the ergonomics are not exemplary. The head-up display does not tire the eyes as much as the digital instrument cluster overloaded with small icons above the central panel. It takes time to get used to it.
Noise isolation and suspension are not bad in the city and at low speeds, but at a higher rate of movement, the tires begin to howl and the chassis makes itself felt. rear axle with an elastic beam, reacts boldly to cracks in the asphalt and undulating surfaces.
Toyota Prius does not require any special driving skills. But if you want to use the maximum potential of a hybrid setup, then you should get used to driving a little differently. For example, use inertia to accumulate electrical energy (recuperation). Thus, fuel can be saved. Having adapted to guess how far the hybrid can roll without gas, slowing down by inertia, it will be possible to use the brakes only in exceptional cases. This is a special kind of entertainment, no less exciting than riding sideways.
While earlier generations of the Prius could not rely entirely on an electric motor, the third generation of the model could well do without the help of an engine. internal combustion. The power reserve is enough for 2-3 km of travel, but at speeds above 50 km / h, as a rule, the combined mode of the hybrid installation is activated.
The electric motor works mainly as an assistant, helping a relatively heavy car to start with dignity from a place. At intersections, few people want to stop for a hybrid. But what is the surprise of others when the Prius cheerfully starts at a green traffic light. Unlike some automatic machines that take forever after releasing the brake pedal before the car pulls away, the Japanese hybrid starts moving instantly. Of course, this is not the most economical way to ride, but you can always speed up if necessary. Toyota willingly accelerates somewhere up to 150 km / h, but after 130 km / h the acceleration is already a little impressive. On a flat road, a top speed of 180 km/h can be reached.
The hybrid power plant has three modes of operation. In the first, Eco - the response to the gas pedal is rather sluggish. And in Power mode, the reactions are too sharp and look like an ON / OFF switch. For ordinary trips, "standard mode" is better suited. Power might come in handy for overtaking.
On the steering driving modes have no effect. The responses are a bit vague, as if the signals are being sent through wires. Feedback just not on the steering wheel. The Toyota Prius has a different character than classic cars. The driver can never become one with the Japanese hybrid.
At speeds up to 80 km/h, after removing the foot from the gas pedal, the engine is switched off and the energy recovery process begins. Braking occurs due to the electric motor, which saves brakes. There is also a transmission braking mode, which is necessary when driving down a steep descent with a loaded car.
Typical problems and malfunctions
Toyota Prius has no fatal defects. And the power drive is very reliable. The 1.8 liter internal combustion engine runs on a modified Atkinson cycle (the intake valve stays open for a while even when the piston starts to return, thus effectively simulating the stroke of a variable length piston).
Instead of the often problematic CVT with limited time service, an almost eternal planetary gear is installed here. She works with an electric motor, which also does not have characteristic diseases. But this does not mean that the Toyota Prius does not require maintenance. A gasoline engine, like any other engine, regularly needs oil and filters to be updated. And after 300-400 thousand km, the gasket under the head of the block may burn out, or the cooling system pump may leak. Soon the EGR valve can fail. It is easily accessible from above and often comes to life after cleaning.
If any minor mechanical malfunctions occur, then, as a rule, due to neglect regular service. Problems also appear after long stops, during which the battery is completely discharged. This car should not be "idle".
The Toyota Prius went through a couple of big recalls. One concerned cars manufactured before January 2010 - there were problems with ABS on rough roads. In February 2014, the second one was announced. This time the repair required a hybrid installation. There was a danger of the inverter transistors overheating, causing the vehicle to go into safe mode or lose power completely. The defect affected all copies of the Prius and it is quite possible that this problem is still ahead of your car. The cost of a new inverter is from 320,000 rubles, used - from 20,000 rubles.
In winter, sometimes the central display begins to act up, not willingly responding to touch. Not too high-quality interior creaks at times, and plastic is easily scratched.
However, the reliability of the car is rated as above average. Toyota Prius regularly ranks first in satisfaction and reliability ratings.
Many people are concerned about battery life. It is true that in winter their capacity, and above all their readiness to move the vehicle on pure electric power, is reduced. But in a temperate climate, even after 100,000 km or 5 years of operation (warranty period), a significant decrease in battery power is not felt. Owners even after 300,000 km do not complain about the drop in battery capacity.
The need to replace a nickel-metal hydride (Ni-MH) battery may only arise after mechanical damage, such as an accident. The cost of a new high-voltage battery is from 280,000 rubles, a used one is from 45,000 rubles.
Maintenance
The oil in the gearbox and differential is designed for the entire service life and requires only a level and condition check every 60,000 km. And yet, when operating in difficult conditions, Toyota recommends reducing the monitoring interval to 45,000 km, and complete replacement to carry out working fluids no later than 90,000 km. Difficult conditions include frequent trips on the highway at a speed of about 130 km / h.
Still need to change the coolant. The first time after 150,000 km, and then every 90,000 km. The inverter coolant also needs to be updated: first after 240,000 km, and then every 90,000 km.
Conclusion
Toyota Prius third generation - extremely reliable car, which, subject to the operating conditions and regulations Maintenance will be not only economical, but also durable.
Specifications Toyota Prius III (XW30 / 2009-2016)
Engine type - gasoline;
Working volume - 1798 cm3;
Type of timing system - DOHC;
Number of cylinders / valves per cylinder - 4/4;
Piston diameter / stroke - 80.5 mm / 88.3 mm;
Compression ratio - 13:1;
Maximum power - 100 kW (136 hp);
The highest torque - 207 Nm;
Acceleration from 0 to 100 km / h - 10.4 sec;
Max speed- 180 km / h;
Gearbox: type - stepless;
Capacity fuel tank- 45 l;
Weight: curb / full - 1495 kg / 1805 kg;
Fuel consumption:
Average / highway / city - 3.9 / 3.7 / 3.9 l / 100 km;
Wheelbase - 2700 mm;
Track: front / rear - 1525 / 1520 mm;
Tire size - 195/55 R15;
length × width × height - 4460 × 1745 × 1500 mm.
Toyota Prius is a car from a popular brand in the world, featuring a hybrid engine, reliability and an increased level of comfort. Transport is assembled at the largest factories in China and Japan.
The Prius is economical, almost does not pollute the atmosphere (corresponds to the Euro-5 class), reliable and comfortable. In addition, he does not have idle move which distinguishes the model from its competitors.
Models of Toyota Prius
The release of Toyota Prius started in 1997. The main models include:
- NHW10 - first generation (Prius-1). This model was only sold on automotive market Japan. Year of release (1997-2000).
- NHW11 - rebranded first generation (Prius-1.1). The start of sales started in 2000 and continued for the next three years.
- NHW20 - second generation (Prius-2). In 2003 appeared on the market a new version Toyota Prius, which kept on the conveyor until 2011.
- ZVW30 - third generation (Prius-3). Released in 2009.
- ZVW35 - third generation (Prius-3 PHV) The model was put on the conveyor in 2012 and is produced until today.
- ZVW40 and ZVW41 - third generation (restyling). Release start - 2011. The difference between the two mentioned options is in the number of seats. In the first case, this is a 7-seater, and in the second, a 5-seater station wagon.
- Toyota Prius 4 generation - debuted in September 2015. Pro this car there is still little complete information, so we will tell about it a little later.
Features and Specifications
Toyota Prius is a popular "hybrid" in wide circles. As mentioned above, the release of the car was launched in 1997.
1. First NHW10/11 models.
It had an electric motor with a power of 30 kW and a battery with a capacity of 6 Ah. The gasoline engine boasted a volume of one and a half liters and a power of 58 hp. The car accelerated to “hundreds” in 15.5 seconds.
The principle of operation of the hybrid is as follows:
- The petrol engine runs only on the battery charge, and the electric motor is responsible for the movement vehicle(sequential mode of operation);
- Any of the motors (gasoline or electric) is responsible for the movement of the car. This type of control is considered optimal.
2. Second model NHW20.
Belong to the second generation. Works on a similar principle. The power part of the car is called Toyota Hybrid Synergy Drive. It consists of a 1.5-liter gasoline engine with 76 hp. and an electric motor with a power of 68 hp.
The total power is 116 "horses".
The main achievement of the new model was the minimum harmfulness. Combined CO2 emissions were only 104 g/km.
The efficiency of the car deserves special attention. The average fuel consumption in the city is 8 liters, and when driving on the highway - 5.5 liters.
The new Hybrid Sinergy Drive has the following operating modes:
- The start of movement is made by an electric motor powered by a battery. After gaining speed, it connects to work Gas engine, and the electric motor goes into standby mode;
- In the case of active acceleration, the two types of motor work together to achieve maximum power;
- Uniform movement is characterized by the active operation of the electric motor. In this case, the petrol engine is switched off. If the battery charge level drops below the acceptable level, then the computer starts the motor to make up for the lost capacity.
A feature of the Prius II is the saturation of electronics, such as ABS, VSC and EBD, as well as the presence of an economical electric drive that drives the car's air conditioning.
The body of the car has also changed, which has turned from a classic sedan into a hatchback.
In spite of external changes, transport did not impress buyers. The manufacturer, when creating the second version, was no longer chasing beauty.
The task was to make the trip as comfortable as possible for the driver and passenger.
The salon is spacious and has a unique style. The instrument panel is well thought out. LCD monitor installed in the center on-board computer.
A diagonal of 14.5 centimeters is enough to see the information on the screen even with poor eyesight.
The main information that the on-board computer transmits is fuel consumption, power distribution between the battery, wheels and engine, fuel remaining, and more. The information is updated every five minutes.
3. Prius-3 (ZVW30/35).
Appeared in 2009. It was this generation of the car that provided the model with worldwide recognition.
The new car has become longer and wider (by 1.5 and 2.0 centimeters, respectively). As for the length of the wheelbase and the height of the body part, they remained unchanged.
The appearance of the car has also changed. Now the rear and front lights seem to have united with each other, thanks to the seemingly insignificant, but harmoniously looking stripes on the sides of the body.
An important feature for passengers was the shift of the highest point of the body to the central part of the cabin. Now, even with a height of 1.7 meters and above, you can feel comfortable and not be afraid to hit your head. The passenger and driver seats have become thinner by three centimeters, there is room for the knees.
Changed position and gearshift knob. From the dashboard, where it was previously, the handle was moved to the elevation of the center console.
Buyers have the opportunity to choose the diameter of the wheels - between 15 and 17 inches.
In the third version of the Toyota Prius, small protrusions appeared to provide better control of the vehicle's airflow. In comparison with the second version, the air resistance coefficient has decreased by 0.01 (from 0.25 to 0.24).
The power part of the car also experienced serious changes. Instead of a 1.5-liter gasoline engine, a 1.8-liter engine with a capacity of 99 horsepower took over the reins.
The decision to increase the volume of the engine was caused by the desire of developers to reduce fuel consumption when driving at high speeds.
The total power during the operation of the electric and gasoline engine is 136 horsepower. The car accelerates to “hundreds” in 10.4 seconds.
A planetary gearbox appeared in the electric motor, supplemented by a heat recovery system, as well as an oil pump.
Additional modes of operation have also been added. So, instead of one "EV Mode", when the car was driven only by electric traction, two more options appeared:
- "Power Mode" - a mode designed for traveling at high speeds;
- "ECO Mode" is an economical option designed for reduced consumption of the fuel mixture.
In normal mode, fuel consumption averages 4 liters per hundred. When switching to the eco-variant, it is reduced to 1.75 liters.
4. Restyled Prius-3 (ZVW40 and ZVW41).
In 2011, the world saw a new restyled version of the already beloved third Prius.
The designers did not make changes to the power unit, focusing on appearance and car interior.
So, LED sections appeared in the head optics, the air intake hole increased, the interior trim changed (the quality of the material used improved).
A number of devices have changed location on the dashboard. The Japanese paid more attention to soundproofing.
The suspension, which has become stiffer, has also undergone structural changes.
The power unit remained unchanged - the same 1.8-liter gasoline engine paired with an electric motor for 82 "horses".
Fuel consumption in the combined cycle is 3.9 liters per "hundred". Besides, new model"learned" to ride only on electric traction.
Reviews from Toyota Prius owners
The best indicator of quality, reliability and recognition of a car - reviews real owners. To make things fair, below are both positive and negative reviews.
Positive reviews.
1. Viktor Semenov, 46 years old. Toyota Prius, 1.5 l, automatic transmission, 2008, mileage - 110 thousand kilometers.
“I have been the proud owner of a Toyota Prius for eight years now. During operation serious car did not repair.
The main job was to change the oil and filter elements. A year earlier, we bought a Toyota Prius and my son, so he managed to run over 200 thousand kilometers all the time.
All that was done on the car — oil change, candles and filters. There are no complaints about either of the two cars.
After several kilometers behind the wheel of a car, you don’t even want to consider other options.
The machine is economical, pulls well at any speed, reliable in operation.
From additional options It is worth noting the rear-view camera, which has repeatedly saved from collisions.
2. Yuri Skorikov, 47 years old. Toyota Prius, 1.5 l, automatic transmission, 2009, mileage - 115 thousand kilometers.
“I bought the car in 2012. During the time that I have a car, I managed to hit 60 thousand kilometers. No complaints about transport.
During the operation had to make a running diagnostics and change the oil. If there were problems, they were fixed personally.
Once almost burned the inverter. When replacing the battery, my son managed to mix up the polarity, after which an error popped up on the dashboard.
The service said that the car is worthy of respect, because the inverter survived and did not burn out.
I think that the main advantages of the car are reliability, high quality of the engine and running gear, as well as economy.”
3. Evgeny Petrenko, 49 years old. Toyota Prius, 1.8 l, automatic transmission, 2010 onwards, mileage - 90 thousand kilometers.
“The experience of owning different cars is minimal. Before the Toyota Prius, there were only two cars - Hondas of 2004 and 2006 of release.
When choosing a car, I paid attention to the following criteria - efficiency, reliability and maintenance costs.
Friends advised me to buy a Toyota Prius, and as it turned out, not in vain. The car turned out to be easy to drive, economical, stable on the road. The design deserves special attention, which caused not fake envy among others.
I bought the car already from hand, so many alterations have already been completed.
So, ground clearance turned out to be raised to 20 cm, put excellent acoustics with ten speakers, made of high quality on the doors. In general, not a car, but a music center on wheels.
There are no complaints during the operation. The car is economical, unpretentious in operation, there is a roomy trunk.”
4. Gennady Rastorguev, 38 years old. Toyota Prius, 1.5 l, automatic transmission, 2007, mileage - 160 thousand kilometers.
“I bought the car in 2012. The year of manufacture of the purchased Toyota Prius is 2007. The car is made in the USA, which only adds “whists”.
During the operation, I had to change oils, working fluids and make diagnostics of the main systems (more for complacency).
Drove all the time 95 thousand kilometers. The car showed its best side, was unpretentious and did not break down on the road. This is primarily due to the timely replacement technical fluids what I wish for you. Do not forget about the filters (they also need to be changed on time).
After 30 thousand kilometers, I had to change the candles (the engine started).
Real consumption fuel struck to the core. At a speed of 80-90 kilometers per hour, the car showed a result of 2.8 liters per "hundred". Starting the engine in cold weather does not cause problems.
Of the main advantages, it is worth noting reliability, comfort, self-confidence on the road and ease of maintenance.
If you understand the mechanics and electrical parts, then there will be no problems with the car at all.
negative feedback.
1. Gennady Ivanov, 35 years old. Toyota Prius, 1.8 l, automatic transmission, 2010 release, mileage - 130 thousand kilometers.
“Previously, I gave preference only to foreign cars, but I wanted to change the car to some kind of “hybrid” in order to save on fuel. Bought a Toyota Prius in 2010.
At first, there were no complaints about the car, and after each MOT, an engine error began to light up. The masters at the service station explained that the reason was the filling of low-quality fuel, although he tried to pour only expensive fuel.
After a year of operation, fuel consumption jumped - 5.0 to 6.0 liters per "hundred". A year later, the car began to “eat” and did 7.5-8.0 liters.
Recently, the battery failed, and an inscription appeared on the dashboard demanding to check the hybrid system.
When buying, they assured that the power source is eternal, but in practice everything turned out to be not so rosy. The service itself is disgusting - they repair for a long time, you wait for parts for months, and the quality leaves much to be desired.
2. Rodin Osadchy, 33 years old. Toyota Prius, 1.5 l, automatic transmission, 1998 release, mileage - 330 thousand kilometers.
“The car was reliable and unpretentious for the first three years of operation, but after replacing the battery, constant problems began.
First, the elements of the power source flew out one by one, then there were problems with the inverter, then with the hybrid installation. In the end, I had to disassemble and sell everything for parts.
3. Diana Ivanova, 26 years old. Toyota Prius, 1.5 l, automatic transmission, 2008 onwards, mileage - 60 thousand kilometers.
“When buying a car, I thought that I would get high-quality transport that would provide comfortable warmth in winter. It turned out that it is warmer in Zhiguli than in Toyota.
Causes criticism and handling of the car. On a bad road, the car strives to be demolished to the side of the road. I had to sell the car after 2 years of operation.
4. Nikolai Lunev, 36 years old. Toyota Prius, 1.8 l, automatic transmission, 2011 onwards, mileage - 40 thousand kilometers.
“In principle, the car is not bad, but the low ground clearance upset me. When traveling to the country, I constantly strike the bottom even when driving the wheel into relatively small pits.
5. Stanislav Gaidashenko, 38 years old. Toyota Prius, 1.5 l, automatic transmission, 2009 onwards, mileage - 40 thousand kilometers.
“The main disadvantage for me was the price. I wanted to buy a hybrid, so I had to get into serious debt. It turned out that the car is not so good.
Noise isolation is not enough, the steering wheel is not informative, there is no fixation of the lever.
If accidentally hurt, you can turn on the neutral gear. The interior is made of cheap plastic, which began to creak almost immediately after the start of operation.
At normal speed (more than “hundreds”), fuel consumption is not so small - almost 7 liters per hundred kilometers.
The battery discharge is fast. To save fuel normally, you should stick to a speed of 70 km / h.
Results
Toyota Prius is a reliable, comfortable and economical vehicle. The main thing during operation is to change consumables in time, monitor the condition of the battery and periodically go to diagnostics in order to fix problems at an early stage.
If you do not start malfunctions, then there will be no serious problems in operation. An important point is the quality of the fuel.
Toyota Prius is whimsical to fuel, so it is worth refueling at proven gas stations.
hybrid Toyota model The Prius of the next, third in order, incarnation with the internal marking "XW30" first officially appeared before a wide audience in early 2009 on the catwalks of the international auto show in Detroit, and already in May it went on sale.
The car retained the "cart" of its predecessor, but in other respects it has changed significantly. In the fall of the same year, the Prius Plug-In concept debuted, charging from a wall outlet, but it only entered the series in 2011. The "life cycle" of the five-door continued until 2015, when it was replaced by the assignee.
The appearance of the "third" Toyota Prius is modern, recognizable and original - "Toyota" designers succeeded in a car that instantly stands out from the stream of "classmates" (moreover, the "Plug-in Hybrid" version differs from the "ordinary hybrid" - a large number of "elegant lines" in the design front of the body). Of course, it is difficult to call the “Japanese” a hand-written handsome man, but there is a certain elusive appeal and balance in his exterior, which you will not find in every car.
In the company itself, the “third Prius” is positioned as a representative of the mid-size class, but formally it is a “borderline” model between the “golf” and “mid-size” classes: it is extended by 4480 mm in length, 1745 mm in width, and 1490 in height. mm. The hybrid has a 2700 mm wheelbase and 140 mm ground clearance.
The interior of the Toyota Prius looks quite ordinary, and only a two-layer display, visible from the “cave” at the very top of the dashboard and replacing conventional instruments, and a four-spoke multi-steering wheel with a flattened rim at the bottom add originality to it. On the center console, in turn, the touchscreen 7-inch monitor of the multimedia system, the “microclimate” unit with a monochrome “stripe” and the transmission joystick are “flattened”. Inside the five-door, only high-quality finishing materials are used, and the assembly is at an excellent level.
In front of the Prius's interior, there are comfortable seats with unobtrusive lateral support, sufficient adjustment intervals and heating. The rear sofa is “friendly” even for three riders, both in terms of layout and in terms of free space.
Toyota cargo area Prius third generation by the standards of the class is very roomy - 445 liters. With the rear seats folded down, its volume increases to 1120 liters, and even an absolutely even "rookery" is obtained. Underground are a full-size spare wheel, an organizer with tools and a traction battery.
Specifications. The hatchback is driven by a hybrid power plant, the “combined” return of which is 136 “stallions”. Its “heart” is a 1.8-liter gasoline “four” operating according to the Atkinson cycle, with distributed injection, an exhaust gas recirculation system, a 16-valve timing and variable valve timing, developing 99 “horses” at 5200 rpm and 142 Nm of peak torque at 4000 rpm. The internal combustion engine is assisted by a synchronous electric motor-generator, which is armed with 82 “mares” and 207 Nm of torque potential, a traction 200-volt air-cooled nickel-metal hydride battery and a planetary transmission that connects the engines to the front wheels.
From zero to 100 km/h, the Prius can accelerate in 10.4 seconds, and continues to pick up speed until it reaches 180 km/h. In mixed driving mode, the car “eats” no more than 3.9 liters of fuel for every “hundred”.
As already noted, in addition to the standard version, the hybrid is also available in a “plug-in” version called “Plug-in Hybrid”, equipped with batteries with a capacity of 4.4 kW / h (with the possibility of recharging them from a regular household outlet in 1.5 hours), which is on a clean electricity can cover up to 23 km.
The third "release" of the Toyota Prius is built on the front-wheel drive platform "New MC" with an independent "walker" type McPherson in front and a semi-independent architecture with an H-shaped crossbar in the rear (stabilizers are used on both axles). High-strength steel grades are widely used in the car body, and some of its elements are made of TSOP branded “Toyota” polymer of vegetable origin.
The Japanese hybrid in the “state” is equipped with a rack and pinion steering system equipped with an adaptive electric amplifier. The brakes of the five-door are disc on all wheels, but with ventilation in the front, supplemented by ABS, EBD and other electronic gadgets.
Options and prices. At the beginning of 2017, the third generation Prius can be purchased on the Russian secondary market at a price of 400 thousand rubles, and the cost of the most “fresh” copies exceeds 1.3 million rubles.
In all trim levels, the hatchback has: seven airbags, heated front seats, ESP, ABS, EBD, engine start with a button, two-zone "climate", an audio system with six speakers, leather interior, full LED optics, four power windows, 15-inch wheels, sensors parking (rear), light and rain and other equipment.
Can a car whose length is almost 4.5 meters to spend 2.82 liters of gasoline per 100 km in the urban cycle? It turns out that there is such an “instance” - this is the Hybrid Toyota Prius II. The second-generation hybrid Toyota, which had barely appeared, was awarded four prestigious awards at once.
The performance that Hybrid Synergy Drive delivers, referred to as a squared hybrid, is simply amazing.
The main technical indicators of the hybrid Toyota Prius II
The dimensions of the car are 4450 mmx1725 mmx1490 mm, which corresponds to the length, width and height. The size of the wheelbase and stakes front / rear - 2700 mm and 1505/1480 mm. Minimum luggage space in hybrid Toyota- 408 liters, and ground clearance - 145 mm. Maximum speed - 179 km / h, acceleration to "weave" - 10.9 s. Fuel consumption in the city and on the highway (per 100 km) - five and 4.2 liters. The volume of the gas tank is 45 liters, the tire size is 185/65/R15.
Types of hybrid drives
Speaking of hybrids, which, by the way, are also produced by Honda, and dozens of enterprises are developing, it is worth remembering two types of hybrid drive - parallel and serial.
In the first case, with the help of a gearbox, the internal combustion engine is connected to the wheels, to which an electric motor is also connected (it does not matter to the same as the ICE or others), powered by a battery.
In the latter case, the internal combustion engine is not connected to the wheels. It runs on a battery-charging generator. The current is supplied to the traction electric motors either directly from the generator and additionally from batteries, or from batteries (depending on the driving mode).
Twisting flows tracked on the central display Toyota Hybrid
In both cases, electric motors can work as generators during braking, thus it is possible to recover energy and gain economic benefits.
The same hybrid Toyota uses both combinations, which allow achieving both economy and high acceleration dynamics, which gives the right to call it a hybrid of hybrids.
The volume of the gasoline four-cylinder engine is 1.5 liters, and power - 75 hp. The power of a hybrid Toyota can hardly be called a record for such a volume, and for compression (13: 1). But the engine itself (without an electric motor) is economical in itself. And, most importantly, it meets the most stringent toxicity requirements, which have not yet been introduced in America, i.e. Toyota's hybrid emissions are "ultra super low" and the standard is "partially zero".
Now about the electric motor on permanent magnets: its power 67 HP, synchronous.
The scheme of stuffing hybrid Toyota
Toyota hybrid batteries are nickel-metal hydride batteries with an attention-grabbing characteristic - peak power is 28 “horses” (against the usual 1-2 hp). In all driving modes, of course, the system of redistribution between these load elements works. A trip in a hybrid Toyota is possible only on an internal combustion engine, only on an electric motor, or on their simultaneous use. At the same time, part of the power of the gasoline engine with uniform movement still gets to the generator, control system, and then, to traction motor electric. At first glance, these transformations entail additional losses, in fact, engineers, in this way, achieve the optimal mode for the DSV (speed / load), which has a positive effect on fuel consumption.
"Hybrid-hybrid" system: link diagram
By the way: The huge torque of the hybrid Toyota, which the electric motor is capable of delivering at any speed, is the key to flexible and convenient control of the huge traction on the front wheels. From the wheels (during braking) and the gasoline engine, the battery is simultaneously charged (the voltage in this traction "smart" electrical network reaches 500 V). For such high powers, it implies relatively low currents, therefore, low losses due to ohmic heating of the wires in comparison with systems used earlier (for the same Prius I, it is only 274 V).
The power divider is another highlight of the hybrid Toyota: a planetary transmission, a central or sun wheel connected to a generator, a planetary one with a DSV, an outer ring with wheels and an electric motor. In a variety of directions, the Toyota Hybrid system redistributes power flows very smoothly.
Hybrid drives: serial and parallel hybrid
Electronics
There are a lot of electronics in this car: the electric drive of the air conditioner, which allows you to reduce the energy consumption that is saved in this car; the second generation VSC, which controls the electric power steering, as well as EBD ABS, etc. The grown-up Toyota Prius II, which has moved into the “D” segment, is quite voluminous - it is practically a hatchback that has the features of a mini-van.
Interior
Externally, the Hybrid Toyota does not make much impression, since it is intended for those. Who appreciates, first of all, comfort.
And the cabin is really comfortable: very comfortable seats that meet high ergonomic requirements. The salon itself is very bright, spacious, with a nice dashboard with an on-board computer LCD monitor. The screen diagonal is 14.5 cm. It contains information about the road surface and the condition of the car, about the distribution of power flows (“Energy”), the remaining fuel and the number of kilometers that can be driven on it (“Consumption”), the distance traveled. It also serves as a map of the navigation system. Thanks to the second generation Prius, the car gained worldwide fame.
But, even such a high assessment did not make the company's specialists stop. Almost twelve years after the debut of an amazing car, the third generation Toyota Prius Hybrid was presented, in which they tried to preserve the originality of the predecessor's image to the maximum, introducing new features into it.
Third generation Prius: differences from Toyota Prius II
The new car has grown in length by 15 mm, has become wider by 20 mm. The dimensions of the wheelbase and the height of the car have not changed. It was decided not to deviate far from the "triangular" silhouette of the eco car. As if a light touch connected the headlights with the rear ones, adding some piquancy to the outlines. Unlike the previous hybrid Toyota, now the highest point of the roof, previously located above the heads of the front passenger and driver, has now been shifted to the center of the cabin. This for the passengers of the second row turned into additional comfort. Now tall passengers may not be afraid of hitting their heads. There is also more legroom due to the fact that the thickness of the backrests of the front seats has been reduced by 30 mm.
For the driver, there are also innovations: the gear knob, which was previously located on the dashboard, was moved to a console raised above the floor. The wheels of a hybrid Toyota, depending on the configuration, can be 17 or fifteen inches.
In the restyled car of the third generation, designers, in order to somewhat refresh the appearance of the car, the designers changed the head optics, updated the interior trim materials, changed the location of individual elements, worked on soundproofing, modernized undercarriage, making the suspension stiffer, added volume to the engine (up to 1.8 liters), whose power is 99 hp, and electric motor- 82. When driving on electric traction at a speed of 50 km / h, the power reserve is up to those kilometers.
Small protrusions appeared in the front bumper of the hybrid Toyota, which are not so much a design element as a functional nuance that improves airflow management. The new model has a 0.01 lower drag coefficient (Cx=0.25).
Toyota's hybrid body name change to ZVW30 from NHW20 reflects the fact that the old engine has been replaced by a new 1.8-liter N-series engine that can reduce fuel consumption at high speeds. The electric motor was equipped with a planetary gearbox. The system was supplemented with an oil electronic pump, an innovative exhaust gas heat recovery system.
In addition to the electric driving mode "EV Mode", there are now two more - economical ("ECO Mode") and for dynamic driving - "Power Mode".
If, when driving in a normal style in a hybrid Toyota with ups and downs and stops per 100 km, 4 liters of fuel are consumed, then in the "eco" mode, the figure can be reduced to 1.75 liters.
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The new Toyota Prius has once again set high standards in the hybrid segment. Innovative technology, comfort levels and even the design of a true hybrid - now there is a benchmark that other manufacturers can only reach for.
The Prius brand appeared on the market 12 years ago. In 1997, the world's first mass-produced hybrid rolled off the Toyota assembly line.
The name "Prius" in Latin means "to go earlier". It became symbolic for a car that was released even before there was a human awareness of the need to protect the environment.
In 2003, sales of the second Toyota generations Prius. These cars are still being produced and are very popular.
Designing new third Generations of the Prius, Toyota engineers have combined time-tested existing hybrid technologies with innovative developments of recent years into a single whole. During the development of the Prius, more than 1,000 patents were filed worldwide.
The debut of the serial Toyota Prius 2010 model year took place at the Detroit Auto Show in January 2009.
The new hybrid is built using technologies that reduce environmental pollution at every stage of a car's life, from production, operation to vehicle disposal.
Third Prius generation surpassed its record for fuel efficiency. Hidden under the hood of the Prius is a new 1.8-litre Atkinson-cycle petrol four that produces 98 Horse power, and the maximum torque is 142 Nm at 5,200 rpm (previously a 1.5-liter engine was installed on the Prius, developing 76 horsepower). The acceleration time of the new Prius to "hundreds" compared with the previous model was reduced by almost a second - to 9.8 seconds, and the average fuel consumption in the combined cycle decreased by 0.4 liters - to 4.7 liters per hundred kilometers. A significant role in reducing fuel consumption was played by the reduced weight of the hybrid due to the use of heavy-duty aluminum alloys.
Contrary to popular belief, a more powerful gasoline engine is used in a hybrid scheme when driving on the highway, and not during sharp accelerations. With high torque on low revs, the internal combustion engine can use less fuel and at the same time efficiently maintain a constantly high speed.
The use of an electric coolant pump and a new exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) system also contribute to engine efficiency. The 1.8-litre Prius engine is the first Toyota powerplant to not contain any belts under the hood.
Unlike most other hybrid vehicles in existence, the Prius is an uncompromising "full" hybrid. That is, he can ride on only one engine, only the battery, or a combination of both.
The newly developed regenerative brake system, electronically controlled, has been optimized to increase the amount of energy generated during braking.
The third generation Prius can offer its owner three alternative ways movement. The EV mode allows battery-only driving at low speeds for approximately 1.5 km if conditions permit. There's also Power Mode, which increases the feel of the accelerator pedal for a sportier ride, and Eco Mode, which helps the driver drive with the best possible fuel economy.
Toyota engineers managed to reduce the weight of the power plant and transmission, as well as reduce losses during torque transmission by 20%.
When designing the new Prius, the aerodynamic performance of the model was at the forefront. The designers had a difficult task - to develop a spectacular exterior and at the same time improve a number of important indicators: the volume of internal space and the aerodynamic drag coefficient.
The car has spent a huge amount of time in the wind tunnel, as a result, the new Prius has the best drag coefficient among its closest competitors - 0.25.
Toyota engineers are planning to install a hybrid solar panel on the roof to power the new climate control system. The system prevents the interior temperature from rising while the car is parked and reduces the cooling time accordingly when the driver returns to the car.
The new Prius also offers remote air conditioning. It is the first battery-only system in the world that allows this operation to be performed remotely, so the driver can adjust the internal temperature for comfort before getting into the vehicle.
In addition, the latest exhaust gas recirculation system allows the use of high temperature exhaust and thereby reduces the energy costs for warming up the engine and the operation of the interior heater.
The third generation Toyota Prius is built on a completely new platform. Toyota engineers have done separate work to improve handling and comfort compared to the previous generation. The use of new soundproofing materials has significantly reduced road noise.
When developing the Prius platform, special attention was paid to improving the level of vehicle safety. Initially, more stringent criteria for the effectiveness of passive and active safety.
Already in the basic configuration there are seven airbags, including a knee one, and active head restraints will significantly reduce the risk of injury in a rear impact.
Prius equipped latest systems Active Safety: Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS), Brakeforce Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BA), Traction Control (TRAC) and Vehicle Stability Control (VSC).
Toyota used its latest developments on the production version of the hybrid, in particular, the distance control system, which uses millimeter-wave radar to avoid collisions with both moving and stationary objects. This same system can emergency, in a fraction of a second, prepare all the equipment responsible for the safety of passengers in the car for a possible collision: tighten the seat belts, bring the seats to an optimal state, increase the sensitivity of the brake pedal and notify the driver with an audible signal.
Parking the Prius is much easier thanks to the Intelligent Parking Assist. Multifunctional monitor that provides image transmission from the rear view camera during use reversing, will show the optimal trajectory when parking.
The wheelbase of the third-generation Toyota Prius remained the same, but due to the improved layout of the front passenger seats, it was possible to increase legroom rear passengers. The hybrid has grown a little in size: 15mm in length and 25mm in width. It also added spaciousness to the cabin.
All trim materials on the new Prius are made from new carbon-neutral plastics. It does not emit harmful substances during operation.
The instrument panel may duplicate information from the multifunction display. As soon as the driver touches the audio system control keys, information about the action taken will appear on the dashboard. On stock cars dashboard with such possibilities was not established earlier.
Undoubtedly new toyota Prius has once again become a trendsetter in the field of hybrid construction. But the number one automaker in the world has yet to relax, competitors are breathing down the back of the head. The cheaper hybrid Honda Insight seriously stirred up the Japanese market.
Toyota plans to correct the situation by expanding the line of hybrid models. The novelty will be based on compact hatchback Toyota Yaris. That is, in the near future we will see a modified power plant Prius on a new platform. The compact hybrid should, as conceived by Toyota marketers, seriously compete with opponents.