Hybrid Synergy Drive - FAQs

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Why did Toyota decide to manufacture the hybrid Camry in Australia?

Toyota's decision is the culmination of an intensive study conducted during the past year which included discussions with the Federal and Victorian governments.

It reflects the Federal and Victorian governments' strong desire to see new, environmentally friendly technologies introduced to Australia.

Both governments continue to provide strong support to the Australian automotive industry and can share in this historic announcement which is positive for Toyota, local car manufacturing and the Australian community.

In addition the growing demand for our Prius hybrid also confirmed that there is a need for more hybrid models in our line up.

Is the hybrid Camry Australia's first local hybrid?

Hybrid Camry will be the first commercially available hybrid vehicle manufactured in Australia. The decision was announced on Tuesday 10th June 2008 to begin manufacturing a hybrid version of the Camry Sedan at the Altona plant in Melbourne from the beginning of 2010.

Is the petrol engine on continuously?

No it isn't. That is the advantage of Toyota's hybrid system. When the petrol engine is not needed for power or to recharge the battery, the petrol engine automatically switches off. For example when the car is stationary (such as at traffic lights) or when coasting or travelling down hill.

Would I have to plug my car in to recharge the battery?

The current hybrid Camry and Prius recharge themselves while driving. You never have to plug them into a power point. In fact there is nowhere on the car to even plug one in.

Toyota is working on technology called a 'Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle', which would have such a feature and which would allow extended travel on electric power alone.

Is the petrol engine always required?

Hybrid Camry and Prius can be driven for short distances on electric power only. This is particularly useful in stop-start traffic, for eliminating emissions in your garage and for quiet entry or exit through your neighbourhood.

How often would I have to replace the battery?

The battery is designed to last the typical life of the vehicle. It is kept at an optimum charge level, which gives it an extended life.

Our confidence in hybrid technology is boosted as we now have considerable real life experience in Australia with Prius vehicles operating nationally in a wide range of harsh environments. An example of Prius's durability is the large fleets of Prius taxis emerging. We are now aware of many vehicles exceeding 300,000 klms without the need to replace batteries. This is many times the normal use of a typical car in Australia by consumers.

Why would I choose a Toyota hybrid?

Toyota is the world leader in hybrid vehicles with sales of more than 1.5 million. The Prius was first launched in Japan in 1998 with many other Toyota hybrid models released since that time.

The one-millionth Prius was sold in April 2008. Total Australian sales of Prius are expected to reach 10,000 later this month (June 2008).

The Toyota Prius has been named Green Engine of the year again in 2008. Toyota has been honoured 19 times since the awards were launched in 1999, including 10 awards for Hybrid Synergy Drive which powers the current-generation Prius.

Is hybrid technology here for the long term?

Toyota is committed to developing hybrid systems as a core technology. Globally, the goal is to reach one million hybrid sales per year during the 2010s. Toyota's worldwide goal is to approach zero impact on the environment in all our activities, including vehicles and production. While we can never achieve zero impact, we always strive to do better – and hybrid technology is an important part of that effort.

Are hybrids safe?

Toyota has adopted numerous safeguards, including automatic disablement mechanisms to ensure safety in the event of an accident.

How different are they from 'normal' cars?

In all other respects, hybrid Camry and Prius are fully normal cars capable of seating five adults comfortably. They drive like regular automatic cars, use regular unleaded fuel and have large luggage capabilities.

Toyota hybrid cars are so simple to operate that they are now becoming popular rental car models in Australia. Try one for yourself next time you travel to one of the major capital cities.

Is a hybrid engine really clean?

Prius is the cleanest production family car in the world, emitting just 106g/km of carbon dioxide. It has an official combined cycle fuel consumption of 3.9L/100kms*.

Prius was the first car to achieve 5 stars on the Green Vehicle guide published by the Australian Greenhouse office.

Carbon emissions are only one measure of a car's tail pipe emissions. To be truly clean you need a balance of low CO2 plus low air toxic emissions. These are typically the gas and particle emissions we all see as smog.

The Prius has been recognised globally as a clean vehicle achieving many awards and certification to the toughest environmental standards in the world. Many other engine technologies are yet to achieve emissions low enough to satisfy these emerging low emission standards.

You can find out more on air toxic emissions and their affects on air quality and health by visiting www.greenvehicleguide.gov.au or other websites including www.arb.ca.gov.

*Fuel consumption will vary depending on driving conditions/style, vehicle conditions and options/accessories. Source of fuel consumption data: ADR 81/01 combined cycle.