Likely considered one of the most popular lines of hybrid automobiles, Toyota announced two new Prius models that will be joining the lineup during October across 14 states.
Announced at the Green Drive Expo in Richmond, California earlier today, the 2012 Toyota Prius Plug-in Hybrid utilizes a new 4.4 kilowatt-hour Lithium ion battery pack and allows owners to charge the vehicle with a standard wall outlet. Using a custom made charging pack, owners can fully recharge the vehicle in under three hours with a standard 120-volt outlet and cut that time in half using a 240-volt outlet. Toyota estimates that the Prius Plug-in will get 87 miles per gallon overall and 49 mph while in hybrid mode. The Prius Plug-in can operate on just battery power up to 15 miles at speeds up to 62 miles per hour, ideal for short trips around town.
The charging system comes with a 24 foot cable and is stored within the trunk. It also includes a timer that can be set by the user to charge at off-peak hours for the best rate on electricity. The Prius Plug-in comes in two models, the base model starting at $32,000 ranging up to $39,525 for the advance model. Consumers purchasing either model also qualify for a $2,500 federal tax credit, making the purchase of a base Prius just under $30,000. The pricing model puts it in line with the $40,000 Chevy Volt and the $35,000 Nissan Leaf, but both of those cars qualify for a larger federal rebate of $7,500 due to larger batteries.
In addition to the Prius Plug-in, Toyota also announced the Prius V, a version of the Prius with nearly 60 percent more cargo space than the Prius liftback. However, the mileage per gallon isn’t quite as impressive since the Prius V weighs an additional 300 pounds. The Prius V will get an estimated 42 miles per gallon, city and highway combined. The Prius V starts at $26,400 and ranges up to $29,990 depending on the model. Both models of the Prius will be available in October 2011.
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