The Generation 1 Prius 1997-2001 (Not released in the US) uses steel encased D type Nimh cells welded together in a stick of 6 cells. Possibly every vehicle still running today would be doing so on reconditioned batteries and hopefully the Power Jockey. This video shot on 25/5/2012 shows the vehicle towing a 2 tonne load. The Nimh battery was reconditioned (cut and re-welded). Shows that you can use the little old Prius for towing provided the Nimh battery and the engine are in good working order. youtube.com/watch?v=hEJa_mHkq38
