I dedicate this thread to an internal-combustion-engine car with the highest fuel economy ever -- the 2016 Prius Eco. While a little is known about this model, it will possibly feature another 10% fuel-economy improvement over the 2016 Prius core model, reaching about 60 MPG in contrast to about 55 MPG of the latter. How this is going to be achieved is currently unknown -- perhaps with a better engine, or better hybrid system, or both. It will undoubtedly form a new, superior class of Prius owners, proudly owning the ultimate Prius with the superior fuel economy, making the core model feel only a quasi Prius. We will look forward to the specifications of the 2016 Prius Eco and core models.
So far, the only rumor about it is that it will have a Li-ion battery. Which does let the Prius PHV get better hybrid fuel economy than the straight Prius.
There were rumors of Toyota releasing this next Gen of Prius allowing potential buyers a "choice" of battery type. If rumors of The Prius Eco being a specifically available trim level or model and it indeed does come with a Lithium Ion battery as opposed to the standard Nickel Metal Hydride, this may be Toyota's way of offering that choice, while outlining the benefits, and being able to somewhat monitor and control production in relationship to demand.
I doubt it, as Toyota said that it would be cheaper than the Hypersonic Red model that was unveiled in Las Vegas. Besides, NiMH is proven highly efficient and Li-ion doesn't help the fuel economy much if at all, assuming you have a non-plug-in model. But, then, who knows, perhaps it will have Li-ion.
These are the type of rumors that get started when you have a LAME release, where little to no information is revealed. Do I really care that he host of the event has owned 4 Prius? When his BIG QUESTION turns out to be joking about whether he gets to drive the new Prius home? Phht.... And I'm getting told what a great evening it is...when I'm being offered about a 6 minute presentation.
Toyota showed at least one Lithium-ion hybrid last night so that's not specific to the Eco model. The Lithium batteries have higher charge/recharge efficiency than NiMH but probably not enough to produce much change in the EPA estimate for average non-plug hybrid driving. Getting 60 mpg probably requires more weight loss and aerodynamic changes. Newer body tech to lower weight might cost more than they wanted for the higher volume cars. Further aero changes might also look too dorky for the high volume car (rear wheels skirt, etc). This might also be a place where Toyota first rolls out a new SiC-based higher efficiency motor inverter.
The 1.4kWh LiOn pack in the standard hybrid CMax is capable of WAY more than the 42 city EPA figures: Now that was my personal best but I routinely got 50+mpg out of it on a daily basis. The LiOn pack is much more capable of longer P&G distances than I could do in my 2010 Prius. EV mode was more robust too. I would suspect the Prius Eco with a LiOn pack, a more extensive software history, and other advancements will do even better.
Toyota did release a photo of the Eco Prius...has the Eco badge on the lower right side of the hatch.
A front view of that car shows blanks in place of the fog lights, furthur supporting the decscription of the eco model as a lower cost variant.
Maybe it is saved for reveal at IAA in Frankfurt next week? Would make sense to save something "extra" to the motor show. There is a history of the cheaper models being more fuel efficient, e g smaller tires, less extra lights etc.
I'm SURE this is tongue-in-cheek. And we already have that superior bunch: those plug-in Prius SOB's.
Well, if it's going to be the most efficient Prius it probably becomes by default the Prius I'd be the most interested in. Interesting that Toyota would offer this step up in fuel mileage, as a model option. How much would you pay as a premium to get 5 gallons per mile better gas mileage? 10? It's an interesting approach. As soon as the automotive world demands Toyota start lifting the embargo on next Generation Prius "information" and specs, I'd be interested in how it does break down in terms of cost and comparative efficiency to it's own brethren. We will see, but I don't necessarily default to the idea that because the Prius Eco is pictured with smaller wheels and no fog lights that means it's going to be "cheaper". I suspect the premium you're paying for and most purchasers of The Eco Prius would be buying is the additional efficiency. Usually in other vehicles and with other automakers any available "Eco" or special Fuel Efficient trims or model designations fall somewhere in the middle of the model line pack as far as price. So I'm taking the 3 bears approach and thinking The Eco Prius won't be the cheapest, and it won't be the most expensive. But I will eagerly await the slow release of specifics on a LOT of Next Gen Prius fronts.
Off topic, but: you can see what looks like independent suspension here, and transverse muffler, with downturned outlet at right side.
Corolla LE Eco exhibits about 10% improvement in fuel economy over the Corolla core model by adding the Valvematic technology, which costs about $500 - 1,000. Valvematic technology also increases the available horsepower. If the Prius core model omitted the Valvematic technology to shave off the cost, it's highly disappointing. Why would most Prius drivers want to take 55 MPG over 60 MPG? Use of skinnier tires in the Eco model is understandable, as they help improve the fuel economy. They also reduce the cost a little bit. Lack of fog lights would be to keep the cost down. Toyota USA GM Bill Fay said that Prius Eco would be lower-priced than the high-end Prius core model unveiled in Las Vegas.
FWIW, the current fog lights are pretty much ornamental. Between that and very limited need for them, at least in our driving, I don't care either way. The mat black insert in place of them looks cheap/tacky tho. If they didn't sculpt the bumper around them, like they're some sorta intake, they could put something flush and body coloured, like the toe socket locations.
PR information has already confirmed it. The new front suspension and rear double wishbone suspension gives the new Prius a greater connection to the road, providing greater control and feedback in all driving conditions. Source I think it has thrown a monkey wrench into Gen2 Volt with torsion beam. GM is delaying and limiting 2016 Volt launch and 2017 starting earlier. I bet they are reworking the rear suspension.
Don't forget guys, Toyota trademarked the word "Prius Prime". They wouldn't do that if there was no product almost ready, right? Maybe that's the AWD model.
