Toyota Aims To Take Size and Weight out of Its Hybrid System

Toyota expects to cut the cost of its gas-electric hybrid technology by 50 percent in the next three years, according to a report in the Financial Times.

The Japanese automaker said its new target would trim the cost premium for hybrids to about $1,900. The new hybrid technology, which will be used in the next-generation Prius sedan, will be about half the size and weight of the current system.
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Hyundai - 10/4/2006 11:31:21 AM

+1 Boost

I am completely floored. This is the best news ever.

I am not kidding. This is exactly what needed to be done to make hybrid revolutionary to the auto world.

There is hope for hybrid.

This should shut up all the critics (they were right to critisize) about the cost(ownership/gas savings)/weight(distribution and overall)/size(of battery).

Amazing!

1970toyotamarc - 10/4/2006 4:45:22 PM

+1 Boost

I am thrilled. I will be buying one when the next gen (IV?) comes out. But this is thanks to all those with the foresight, concern, and deep pockets to purchase the new technology in its infancy.
Put my name on a waiting list for a 2009 Prius, ya think they'll have Radiant Red?

quizz - 10/4/2006 8:32:27 PM

+2 Boost

I'm still waiting for an FJ Cruiser Diesel :) Hybrids don't do too well in "real" SUVs, but for family movers like the Highlander, it's perfect.

00JT - 10/4/2006 11:04:55 PM

0 Boost

This is exactly what hybrids need! Can't wait to see the 2009 Prius!

Autoegr525 - 10/5/2006 12:26:09 AM

-1 Boost

what happens when these things break down in 5 years? cars are already expensive enough to fix without adding thousands of dollars of complex equipment that will never pay itself off with its marginal increase in fuel efficiency. On the other hand I'd like to start of a chain of repair shops that specialize only in hybrids...cha ching!

XYZZ - 10/5/2006 7:17:20 AM

+1 Boost

break downs at 5 years???

you are too used to detroit and euro cars. at 8 years, toyotas still remain MORE reliable than 4, 3, even 2 year old models of many of the former.

XYZZ - 10/5/2006 4:11:56 AM

+1 Boost

toyota haters always have to say something negative, even when there's GOOD news.

yeah, he SHOULD open a hybrid only repair shop. and we can all LAUGH WHEN HE GOES BANKRUPT!

we all "know" how vulnernable electric motors are to breakdowns. yeah, my fridge needs an overhaul every year...(snicker)

chewy - 10/5/2006 2:20:22 AM

+1 Boost

Good luck.

AUDBMLEXMRC - 10/5/2006 5:56:56 AM

+1 Boost

Good news!