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Toyota’s petrol-electric Prius is the 2005 European Car of the Year, based on a
vote by 58 motoring journalists from 22 countries.
Prius was a clear winner after two rounds of voting by the members of the
European Car of the Year Jury, which met to consider seven finalists.
Tadashi Arashima, President and CEO of Toyota Motor Marketing Europe, said
the award represents a milestone in the international acceptance of hybrid
powertrain technology.
“We are absolutely delighted to receive the 2005 Car of the Year award for
Prius,” he said.
“We believe hybrid technology, in particular as implemented in the Prius with
our revolutionary Hybrid Synergy Drive system, represents a big step forward in
reducing the environmental impact of automobiles, while at the same time
enhancing driving performance.
“We are proud and honoured that Prius has been endorsed so strongly by the
prestigious group of journalists who make up the Car of the Year jury.
“This is a major milestone in the acceptance of the hybrid powertrain and the
recognition of its potential to become a mainstream technology.
“It is also a great encouragement to us in our work on developing more
environmentally friendly vehicles.”
Prius, the world’s first mass produced hybrid vehicle, seamlessly combines an
electric motor and a petrol engine.
This unique system, called Toyota Hybrid Synergy Drive, will spearhead the
development of new environmentally friendly powertrains and is part of Toyota’s
effort to create the ultimate eco car.
Toyota is increasing Prius production capacity with a view to sell 180,000
models worldwide in 2005.
Apart from its unique drive system, Prius is a fully specified conventional
five-door liftback, capable of seating five adults comfortably.
It requires no special training to drive, does not require external charging;
uses 91 RON unleaded fuel and has 456 litres of luggage capacity.
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