Toyota, which is positioning plug-in hybrid vehicles (PHVs) as the pillar of next-generation environmental vehicles after hybrid vehicles (HVs), has launched the redesigned Prius PHV in Japan.

The carmaker says the Prius’ electric vehicle range has been expanded to 68.2 kilometres. Achieves high fuel efficiency of 37.2km per litre as a hybrid vehicle even after the battery has been depleted. Regardless of the remaining battery charge, the EV driving mode may automatically be switched over to hybrid driving mode depending on the state of the engine and traction battery, air conditioner usage, driving mode (rapid acceleration, exceeding the set vehicle speed), and road conditions (hill climbing). Users can choose from a variety of charging methods: normal charging (200V or 100V), quick charging, and solar charging system.

During short-distance drives, such as daily commuting and shopping trips, a plug-in hybrid operates as an electric vehicle (EV) and does not consume any petrol. At the same time, it can be driven over long distances as a hybrid vehicle (HV) even after the battery charge is depleted.

Since its launch in January 2012, sales of the Prius PHV have totaled approximately 22,000 units in Japan, and approximately 75,000 units worldwide, including the U.S. and Europe.

Also read: Toyota Hybrid global sales cross 10 million units