(November 18, 2022) LOS ANGELES  — When the Prius Plug-In concept model was first revealed at the Los Angeles Auto Show back in 2009, few could have seen the important role it would play in the future of mobility. It offered customers a versatile solution with its pure EV or hybrid modes, impeccable MPG and all the tech people expected from a Prius – making it a perfect addition to the third-generation Prius lineup. Fast forward to now, and the automaker is ushering in a new era of the Prius legacy.

Now in its 10th year of production, this plug-in hybrid model has continued to offer customers the flexibility of getting around town on zero emission battery power or hybrid mode for fuel efficient road tripping. And now, this plug-in offers a thrilling experience in its own right — by bringing even more performance and technology to the package. With a larger lithium-ion battery that increases its EV range by more than 50% over the previous range of 25 miles.

With over 20 million hybrid and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles sold globally, the all-new Prius Prime brings a flexible player to Toyota’s ever-growing team of electrified vehicles.

When it comes to performance, Prius Prime is purpose-built — with a plug-in hybrid system designed to enhance both fuel economy and driving performance, when compared to the outgoing model. The acceleration feel and vehicle speed controllability have also been enhanced, providing a driving feel and accelerator response unique to electric vehicles.

Under the hood is the 5th generation hybrid powertrain coupled with a 2.0L engine and a newly developed lithium-ion battery, located underneath the rear seat. The result is a zero-emission electric range increase of over 50%, a nearly 100 hp increase to 220 hp, and a 0-60 time of 6.6 seconds.

As part of Toyota’s diverse approach to carbon neutrality, the Prius Prime is part of lineup that looks to move “beyond zero.” With 10 hybrids, two plug-in hybrids, the new bZ4X battery electric vehicle and zero emission hydrogen fuel cell technology Mirai, Toyota is committed to finding highly efficient and zero emission solutions that fit customers lifestyles across the US. As a symbol of that commitment, the 2023 Prius will be the first Toyota vehicle to wear a new “Beyond Zero” badge, a global effort to achieve carbon neutrality in our products, manufacturing, and beyond.

A focus for Prius Prime is to allow it to have a similar ethos to the new Prius hybrid model, but with a little something extra – more performance, technology, safety and even a little attitude. Overall, the goal is to build a vehicle that not only meets the practical needs of today’s customers, but also one that appeals to their emotions and that starts with a new sport grade lineup.

Available in SE, XSE and XSE premium grades, the 2023 Prius Prime is built on the second-generation TNGA-C platform, offering a low center of gravity with reduced weight and increased rigidity compared to the previous generation. The result? A wider stance and a lower driving position that feels sporty, yet comfortable.

The all-new Prius Prime also blends its athletic side with a bit of star powered tech: a solar roof. This on-board charging feature uses roof mounted solar panels to recharge the Prius Prime’s battery when parked. The panels deliver supplemental power to accessory functions, like air conditioning, when driving and they also use a clever design that conceals the electrodes for a seamless, glossy appearance.

Compared to the previous generation Prius Prime, it’s 2-inches lower, 1-inch wider, 1-inch longer length and with a hip point that’s almost 1-inch lower. The placement of the traction battery placement is also optimized, with placement under the rear seat for a low center of gravity and enhanced luggage capacity.

Price and on-sale date of the all-new Prius Prime will be announced in the first half of 2023.