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Toyota Prius makes Dubai debut

Dubai - In order to make sustainable mobility available to those who would like to join the change, the new 2016 Toyota Prius will be offered in two grades, Dynamic model available at Dh89,900, and the Iconic model, available at Dh97,900.

The wait is over for hybrid car lovers as Al Futtaim Motors launched the fourth generation Toyota Prius - world's most popular hybrid vehicle - in the UAE that can deliver enhanced fuel efficiency of 26.1km a litre.

In order to make sustainable mobility available to those who would like to join the change, the new 2016 Toyota Prius will be offered in two grades, Dynamic model available at Dh89,900, and the Iconic model, available at Dh97,900.

The Toyota Prius was the world's first mass-produced hybrid vehicle - petrol-electric - when initially launched in 1997, and has since sold over 3.5 million cars around the globe. Toyota's hybrid Camry is already running successfully in Dubai commercially as a taxi but Prius is first time introduced in this region.

Employing a petrol engine and an electric motor, the Prius can be powered by the engine, the electric motor or a combination of both, automatically choosing the most efficient mode for the best mileage and lowest emissions.

"Introducing the Toyota Prius in the UAE is a gigantic step forward in empowering the drive for a more sustainable environment. In line with the UAE government's vision for a greener future, Al-Futtaim Motors is proud to be leading the positive change with this new addition to the Toyota family," Saud Abbasi, managing director of Toyota at Al-Futtaim Motors, told reporters at the launch.

Converting the kinetic energy generated from braking into electricity, the car requires no external charging, making it one of the next immediate motoring solutions for the rising environmental issues in the region."

The fourth generation Prius, which now enjoys a bolder design, ground breaking environmental performance, and a fun-to-drive spirit will appeal to young trendsetters who want everything that is new and cool, with the added benefit of being environmentally ethical and brimming with technology that does not confuse, Abbasi explained.

The new Prius' development concept is based on the idea of 'Beautiful Hybrid' and promises three forms of joys: Joy of efficiency, as the car achieves enhanced fuel economy; Joy of ownership reflected by the emotional exterior design and powerful presence of the car; and the Joy of driving, which exemplifies its fun-to-drive spirit.

The exterior of the all-new Prius hints at the car's advanced functions while also expressing its fun-to-drive spirit, creating an instant and lasting impression.

The Prius retains its 1.8-litre VVT-i equipped Atkinson cycle petrol engine (2ZR-FXE), which is perfectly for highway driving needs.

Energy monitor which displays changing energy flows in conjunction with driving conditions. An ECO Accelerator Guidance will illuminate in accordance with a more eco-friendly use of the accelerator.

The new Prius' centre of gravity is lower than the previous model, resulting in exceptional stability and minimal sway during driving.

- abdulbasit@khaleejtimes.com