Toyota Prius Plug-In Hybrid to be Released in 2011

At the LA Auto Show earlier this month Toyota officially unveiled a plug-in hybrid version of its popular Prius. Toyota's Executive Vice President Takeshi Uchiyamad recently stated that Toyota is going to start selling plug-in hybrids to consumers in 2011.

Before they are released to the buying public, Toyota is going to deliver 600 Prius plug-in hybrids to government agencies, corporations, universities and research agencies. The Prius plug-in is Toyota's first application of a lithium-ion battery. Thanks to the stronger battery, the car can travel up to 13 miles on electricity alone and reach speeds up to 60 mph using only the electric motor.

Toyota Planning Larger Prius with a Lithium-Ion Battery

A new report is claiming that Toyota is planning a new larger Prius, that will be powered by a lithium-ion battery. The new larger version of the Prius will either be a wagon or SUV and it will supposedly launch by the end of next year.

According to the Japanese Yomiuri newspaper, the new version of the Prius will be Toyota's first hybrid with a lithium-ion battery. Toyota of course has declined to comment on the report.

Toyota is also reportedly working on a Prius coupe to go head to head with the upcoming Honda CR-Z hybrid.

Full Story: Detroit News