In 1997, Toyota built the world’s first gasoline-electric hybrid vehicle for mass production, becoming a pioneer at a time when most other automakers were still obsessed with pure gasoline and diesel engines.
Now the automaker is pioneering a new frontier, perhaps a little less impressive, but certainly interesting. The fourth-generation Prius is now offered with a towing package. While that may seem unusual given the vehicle’s height and modest power output, Toyota believes this new option will give outdoorsmen yet another reason to love the hybrid.
The 2016 Toyota Prius has a maximum towing capacity of 1,598 pounds, which roughly translates to a pickup or light trailer with or without brakes. Since “caravanning” is more of a European activity, Toyota may not be directly targeting the US market with this feature, but it could probably tow a small trailer with a couple of motorcycles with no problem – commonplace here in California.
To configure towing capacity, Prius owners will need to pay for Toyota’s official tow bar and wiring systems. Attaching the hook seems simple enough: the accessory is equipped with clear green and red indicators that show when a secure connection is established. In the vast majority of cases, when you’re not towing something, simply unhook the hitch and stow it away in the trunk.
Also, for those concerned about how the Prius would look with a hitch attachment (spoiler alert: it would look fun), all of the hardware is hidden behind the lower edge of the bumper.
Toyota says its latest-generation Prius can tow thanks to the hybrid system’s improved control of the generator head and differential.
When we reviewed the car at the end of last year, we found that it was not only more efficient, but also much more fun to drive, thanks to the rigidity of the chassis and the tuning of the steering. The look may not be for everyone, but these latest features can help customers take their style concerns off their minds.
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Categories: GAMING
Source: newstars.edu.vn