Honda has confirmed the launch of the hybrid version of its Jazz supermini at the upcoming Paris Motor Show in September next month.

The Jazz Hybrid will borrow the hybrid drivetrain from Honda’s Insight featuring a 1.3 liter petrol engine combined with an electric motor and mated to a CVT gearbox. Honda says that Jazz Hybrid will be able to run on electric power alone under some medium and low speed conditions.

Externally, the hybrid variant will have revised headlight units with blue surround, restyled front and rear bumper and clear lens tail lights.  The interiors will get blue lightening for the instrument console,  single color dashboard and optional leather trim for the first time in Europe.

Source: telegraph.co.uk

More details after the jump.

Although there are no official figures on fuel efficiency or emissions, the new Jazz Hybrid will match the Insight’s 61 mpg urban fuel consumption figure and 101 g/km of CO2 emissions.

The Jazz Hybrid will go on sale in UK from early next year.

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French automaker, Peugeot has announced world’s first diesel hybrid vehicle in the form of 3008 Crossover which has  a potential 74.4 mpg with just 99 g/km of CO2 and even a full electric mode.

The new 3008 is powered by a fuel efficient 2.0 liter HDi diesel engine delivering 163 bhp of maximum power which is combined with a 37 bhp electric motor mounted on the rear axle powering the rear wheels. The electric motor takes its power from the trunk mounted nickel metal hydride  batteries and delivers a constant 100 nm of torque which can go upto 200 nm when the need be. Combined power output stands at 200 bhp but more importantly an impressive 500 nm of maximum torque which will be handy in tough conditions. The system also comes with four different operating modes, namely – Auto, ZEV (Zero Emissions Vehicle), Four Wheel Drive and Sport. The hybrid powertrain is mated to an electrically controlled manual six speed sequential gearbox.

The 3008 Crossover Hydrid4 also comes with efficiency enhancing technologies like latest gen Stop & Start system, kinetic energy recovery system and Peugeot’s PTMU (Power Train Management Unit) which automatically manages the different operating modes of the engine to optimize fuel consumption.

The company is claiming a staggering 3.8 liter/100 km fuel consumption along with a small car busting 99 g.km of CO2 emissions.

The new 3008 HYbrid will be produced in France and will go on sale in Europe in the spring of 2011.

Detailed press release and Image Gallery after the jump.

source: peugeot via worldcarfans

Image Gallery: 2011 Peugeot 3008 HYbrid Crossover

Press Release

THE PEUGEOT 3008 HYBRID4 – THE WORLD’S FIRST DIESEL HYBRID VEHICLE

Powered by a 2.0 litre 163 bhp HDi diesel engine and a 37bhp electric motor
Potential 74.4mpg, with 99g/km of CO2
All electric mode (Zero Emission Vehicle)
A maximum combined power output of 200 bhp
The Peugeot 3008 Crossover, with HYbrid4 technology, is the first diesel ‘Full Hybrid’ production car in the world

By launching the world’s first diesel full hybrid vehicle – the 3008 HYbrid 4 – Peugeot will be writing a new chapter in motoring history. The combination of a fuel efficient 2.0 litre 163 bhp HDi diesel engine and a 37 bhp electric motor is the optimal combination for a hybrid vehicle. Unlike previous hybrid vehicles which have chosen to use a less fuel efficient petrol engine, the Peugeot 3008 HYbrid4’s diesel engine provides superior Combined Drive Cycle fuel consumption of 74.4mpg, and CO2 emissions of 99g/km.

The use of diesel hybrid technology also brings a range of other benefits:

High performance combined with excellent driveability
Freedom and simplicity of use with the possibility of choosing four different operating modes: ZEV (Zero Emission Vehicle), Four-wheel drive, Auto and Sport
Silent operation, when driving in electric only mode
Peace of mind offered by the safety inherent in a four-wheel drive vehicle
Environmental friendliness with CO2 emissions from 99g/km
The Peugeot 3008 Hybrid4 is designed to appeal to demanding, technophile customers who are in search of a rewarding and original vehicle.

In terms of performance, the Peugeot 3008 HYbrid4 benefits from the combined power of the HDi diesel engine and electric motor during acceleration and when an immediate surge of power is required (the “boost” function). The maximum combined power output is 200 bhp, 163 bhp from the 2.0 litre HDi FAP diesel engine and 37 bhp from the electric motor. A maximum torque of 500 Nm is available, split with 300Nm at the front from the HDi diesel engine and 200 Nm at the rear generated by the electric motor.

To manage all the available performance a control selector mounted on the centre console enables the driver to choose between four different operating modes.

“Auto” mode: the entire system is automatically controlled, including operation of the HDi diesel engine and the electric motor. This provides optimal driving for fuel consumption and dynamic performance
“ZEV” mode (Zero Emission Vehicle) provides access to an extensive all-electric mode. Activation of the HDi diesel engine is programmed to coincide with only more sustained phases of acceleration. This requires the high-voltage batteries to be sufficiently charged and turns the vehicle into a “city run-around” par excellence due to the total absence of noise and emissions.
Four-wheel drive mode (4WD) instructs both power trains to operate together as far as possible; the rear wheels are driven by the electric motor and the front wheels by the HDi diesel engine. It offers peace of mind, safety, improved driveability and accentuates the vehicle’s dynamic character. At low speed it allows “all-terrain” capabilities equivalent to those of an SUV. The driver will, therefore, no longer be concerned by the prospect of a slippery track or a snowbound uphill drive to a ski resort
Sport” mode favours quicker gear changes at higher engine speeds than normal mode. In this mode, the notion of “controlled power” comes into its own, coupling the diesel engine with the electric motor provides more dynamic performance, optimally distributed and transmitted to the road by the four wheel drive for a level of stability and driveability that will appeal to motoring enthusiasts.
With the Peugeot 3008 equipped with HYbrid4 technology, the aim is to appeal to customers who expect both environmental-friendliness and technological sophistication, and also genuine driving enjoyment.

Indeed, as well as the social benefit of the steep reduction in fuel consumption, the level of performance provided by this technology will delight even the most demanding customers in terms of road holding, responsiveness, driveability, peace of mind regardless of road conditions and the possibility of enjoying silent operation in town in the all-electric mode.

HYbrid4 technology brings together Peugeot’s best technologies and experience: HDi diesel engines, electric vehicle knowledge, second-generation Stop & Start and electronically-controlled sequential manual gearboxes.

The “hybrid” power train simply combines an HDi diesel engine and an electric motor. With their exceptional efficiency, HDi diesel engines are thermodynamically more efficient than a petrol engine and offer a 30% reduction in fuel consumption. Clearly the HDi diesel engine is the best internal combustion engine choice.

For the “electric” component, Peugeot has historical expertise in the field of electric vehicles. To date, the 106 Electric, marketed between 1995 and 2003, remains the world’s best selling zero emissions car (in total nearly 10,000 vehicles were produced). At the end of 2010, Peugeot will become the first to launch a latest-generation 100% electric vehicle in Europe, the Peugeot i0n.

Pursuing the common sense approach of capitalising on the best existing components and expertise, it was only natural to use Peugeot’s electronically-controlled 6-speed manual gearbox, not only for its engine management capabilities but also for its ability to optimise fuel consumption. To improve performance even further a second-generation STOP & START system is also used.

The choice of hybrid architecture was also guided by the search for optimal efficiency and consistency. Hybrid technology uses two power trains which can operate alternately or simultaneously:

The HDi diesel engine operates in its most optimal operating window on longer, out-of-town journeys. A diesel engine still remains the most efficient and versatile choice to power any vehicle
The electric motor takes over from the HDi diesel engine in phases of lower power demands, particularly when pulling away, driving at low speed and decelerating (for energy recovery). These are precisely the features that characterise urban driving
Changeover from the HDi diesel engine to the electric motor occurs automatically, due to a STOP & START system which places the HDi diesel engine in standby and restarts it as and when conditions require (the operation of the accelerator pedal, low battery charge level, etc…).

The two power sources also complement each other in certain driving conditions (“boost” effect during hard acceleration, or when overtaking another vehicle, for example). The performance of the HYbrid4 is therefore directly comparable to that obtained with a single HDi diesel engine of a much higher capacity, with good levels of responsiveness backed by a real breakthrough in terms of reduced fuel consumption and CO2 emissions (around 35 % less in the combined cycle for equivalent performance).

The electric motor and its ancillary equipment (inverter, converter, etc) are fitted at the rear of the vehicle. This provides a number of advantages not only in terms of customer benefits and it also helps reduce costs and optimise the production process.

The original layout of the Hybrid4 system allows for the possibility of four-wheel drive. The HDi diesel engine drives the front wheels, while the electric motor (in the rear drive train) drives the rear wheels.

Everything is controlled electronically (“by wire”) and there are no mechanical links between the front and the rear drivetrains. This gives the system many advantages over a “traditional” mechanical system.

No structural constraints affecting the layout and design within the passenger compartment
4×4 and environmental-friendliness are no longer contradicting terms
The installation at the rear, of all the vehicle’s “electrical components”, has further technical and economic benefits.

Firstly, it avoids the need for any major redesign of the vehicle’s engine compartment, while also improving weight distribution. It also leaves intact the possibility of using a range of different capacity engines, for possible future introduction.

Secondly, this architecture is achieved by means of the use of a simple and compact rear module containing the electric motor, its ancillary equipment and also the rear drive train and suspension.

The costs of the rear module are, therefore, reduced because of the technical possibility of deploying the same HYbrid4 technology into different market segments, in different body shapes, etc…, regardless of the type of internal combustion engine used.

A real breakthrough in terms of reducing fuel consumption and CO2 emissions, while improving dynamic performance levels, providing four-wheel drive and an electric only mode, HYbrid4 technology brings a number of benefits without compromises.

Furthermore, the driveability, safety and eco-efficiency of the system are based on simple, reasonable and consistent technological choices.

The Peugeot 3008 Crossover was chosen as the first application of this innovative technology.

The Peugeot 3008 HYbrid4 – In Detail

2.0 litre HDi FAP 163 bhp diesel engine
With a capacity of 1997 cm³, this Euro 5 engine develops a maximum power of 163 bhp at 3750 rpm and a maximum torque of 300Nm at 1580 rpm. To obtain this level of performance it uses Peugeot’s latest generation ECCS (Extreme Conventional Combustion System) combustion chamber design, a variable-geometry low-inertia turbocharger, a high-pressure injection pump allowing a maximum pressure of 2000 bar and solenoid injectors with eight apertures.

Naturally this is combined with the latest generation “octosquare” Eolys additive-enhanced diesel particulate emission filter (FAP) system.

Electronically-controlled 6-speed manual gearbox (BMP6)
The HDi diesel engine is mated to an electronically-controlled manual six-speed sequential gearbox:

In automatic mode its electronic control helps provide significant savings in fuel consumption, compared to a traditional automatic gearbox or even a traditional manual gearbox
It offers real driving satisfaction derived from the possibility of choosing the gear change mode at any time – manual or automatic – with either the gear lever or via controls behind the steering wheel
The gear change quality of the gearbox has been enhanced with HYbrid4 technology, as the rear electric motor is activated during gear changes to improve the smoothness of the operation, and sustains drive in between gear changes.

Latest-generation STOP & START system
This system places the HDi diesel engine in standby when the vehicle is at a standstill (at traffic lights, a stop sign or in a traffic jam, etc) and when the vehicle is being driven in electric-only mode. It significantly reduces fuel consumption and emissions in urban driving conditions while also enabling.the HDi diesel engine to be restarted instantly and smoothly, when required.

The “high voltage” STOP & START system has a maximum output of 8 kW and can generate enough energy to supply the power requirements for the rear electric motor if required (four-wheel drive mode).

Rear suspension
To ensure a dynamic performance on a par with Peugeot’s reputable road holding standards, the rear electric module also includes a multi-arm rear suspension within which are housed the electric motor and the reduction gearbox.

ESP
The ESP system fitted to the 3008 HYbrid4 incorporates an “improved traction control system” (ASR) able to exploit the car’s four-wheel drive capabilities to the full on challenging surfaces. The performance of the system can be enhanced by the fitment of optional 16” ‘Mud & Snow’ tyres.

Electric motor
The synchronous permanent magnet electric motor is located at the rear of the vehicle. It provides a constant 27 bhp, with a peak output of 37 bhp. It generates a constant torque of 100 Nm, or a peak of 200 Nm when necessary.

PTMU (Power Train Management Unit)
The PTMU is the electronic control unit that automatically manages the different operating modes of the HDi diesel engine and the electric motor, programmed to optimise fuel consumption.

An inverter and a converter are used to control the electric power. The inverter controls the torque of the electric motor by regulating the electrical current supplied from the high-voltage battery pack. It operates in a voltage range of between 150 and 270 volts. The converter reduces the 200 volts from the high-voltage battery pack into 12 volts to supply the vehicle’s onboard systems.

On the Peugeot 3008 HYbrid4 all these components have been made as compact as possible to optimise the installation and weight effect in the vehicle.

High-voltage battery pack
The Ni-MH (Nickel Metal Hydride) batteries are located under the boot floor, near the electric motor. The high-voltage battery pack is in addition to the standard 12V battery under the bonnet, which carries on performing its normal duties.

In the medium term, this battery technology remains the most appropriate in terms of cost and industrialisation for vehicles produced in large volumes.

Energy recovery
An energy recovery system (the electric motor becomes a generator) enables the kinetic energy created by the vehicle to be transformed into electrical energy to recharge the Ni-MH batteries during deceleration (release of the accelerator pedal and during braking). This recovery system enables the driver to re-deploy the “free” (Kinetic) energy to reduce fuel consumption accordingly.

Man-machine interface
A 7” 16/9 colour screen or a multi-function display, according to the car’s specification, informs the driver in real time of the operating status of the hybrid power train. It also shows, for a given journey, operating times in different modes and the status of the battery charge.

On the instrument panel the left-hand dial indicates the percentage of power used or recovered during phases of braking or deceleration. Different scales indicate the battery status: Charge, Eco (optimal operating range), Power, Boost (maximum use jointly with the HDi diesel engine).

Suppliers
To develop its HYbrid4 technology, the PSA Peugeot Citroën Group has teamed up with suppliers offering the best expertise in each field. Based on the manufacturer’s technical specifications, BOSCH has provided its expertise with respect to the electric motor, the power electronics, the reversible high-voltage alternator / generator and other systems managing the dialogue between these components, the braking and trajectory correction systems (ABS and ESP). Similarly, SANYO has provided its extensive knowledge in the field of Ni-MH high-voltage batteries.

A distinctive design
The new Peugeot 3008 HYbrid4 is distinguished by its cutting-edge technology, combining responsible driving and driving enjoyment, but also by its specific styling.

At the front, Peugeot’s latest design cues have been adapted to match the 3008’s generous dimensions and to mark a break with existing models. The headlamps now have an integral bar of LEDs providing a daytime lighting function and accentuate the 3008’s appearance. The 3008 HYbrid4 also proudly wears the Marque’s new Lion badge on its bonnet.

At the rear, the rear spoiler has a two-tone finish with a high gloss black section, helping to differentiate it from the other 3008 models in the range, as do the chrome badges which decorate the sides and rear of the car.

Interior
Inside its roomy architecture, the driving position bears all the hallmarks of a top-of-the-range vehicle, or even that of an aircraft cockpit. An expansive fascia panel, controls within easy hand’s reach and an ergonomic centre console clearly separate the territory of the “pilot”. Combined with a raised and dominating driving position it has everything in place to reward its drivers and offer a range of new driving experiences not previously found in a conventional hybrid vehicle.

Distinctive materials are deployed throughout to accentuate the Crossover feel and explore new avenues of expression. This is true in particular of the new and specific Guérande & Tramontane two-tone leather finish which subtly combines bright pale grey on the seat cushions with a black finish on the sides of the seats.

The gear lever with its modern and elegant design is a key feature of the HYbrid4 technology. It enhances the technological ambience in the same way as the 7” colour display which provides information on the flow of energy. A specific steering wheel bearing the signature HYbrid4 adds a touch of exclusivity to the car.

“Multiflex” interior
Due to its intelligent “Multiflex” interior and clever integration of the batteries and the innovative rear suspension, the Peugeot 3008 HYbrid4 can also be transformed to offer a considerable load capacity under the parcel shelf of 420 litres (362 dm3 VDA), with 66 litres (29 dm3 VDA) available under the boot floor.

The split lower tailgate opens to reveal a boot with a flat floor equipped with longitudinal securing rings that exude quality and strength. From the boot, a rear seat folding system, controlled by switches mounted on the load area side trims, allow the seats in the second row to be folded automatically, ‘as if by magic’.

Combined with the folding front passenger seat, the 3008 HYbrid4 offers a perfectly flat floor from the tailgate to the fascia panel. This frees up a gigantic 1501 litre compartment that is easy to load.

Driving aids:
Comfortably seated behind the steering wheel, drivers will note among the equipment at their disposal certain references to the world of aviation.

For example, to ensure that the driver never needs to take an eye off the road ahead, and as in a jet aircraft, essential driving information is projected onto a retractable transparent panel which cleverly extends from the instrument panel. The Head-Up Display system can be adjusted by means of toggle switches.

These switches, located above the centre console, add a further touch of style to the in-car ambience. They also control another original item of equipment – the Distance Alert system. As its name implies, this function helps the driver to keep aware of the safe distance from the vehicle in front, according to the 3008’s speed.

Another item of equipment that helps to ensure maximum driving convenience is the Parallel Park Assist (PPA). This system assesses the size of a space during parking manoeuvres and determines the possibility of parking in it.

Similarly, the electric handbrake coupled with the Hill Assist function, helps the driver during manoeuvres but also optimises the interior space within the vehicle.

Finally, a latest-generation satellite navigation system helps to guide users on their travels.

The Peugeot Connect 3-D Media Navigation (NG4) includes all the benefits of the Marque’s existing satellite navigation systems. These include a juke-box function, linked to a hard disc, Peugeot Connect services, GSM function, a USB connector, a DVD player, a Bluetooth® system and a display which shows specific buildings in full 3D.

The Peugeot 3008 HYbrid4 is a Crossover with an exceptional technological content offering unique versatility and safety, unrivalled driving enjoyment and CO2 emissions of a very low level. Peugeot’s choice of the diesel hybrid demonstrates that it is possible to combine uncompromising environmental demands with driving experiences not previously available in a hybrid vehicle.

The 3008 HYbrid4 will be produced in France (in Sochaux and Mulhouse) and marketed in the spring of 2011 in Europe.

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GM India have officially launched the flex fuel variant of the Chevrolet Aveo 1.4 which in addition to petrol, can also run on CNG. The car was shown at the Auto Expo 2010 in New Delhi earlier this year. The new Aveo CNG comes with an advanced and first in India Sequential CNG kit which injects precise amount of gas in each cylinder for optimum performance and economy. The kit further includes high quality fuel selector switch and wiring to ensure safety and trouble free performance.

The 1.4 liter VGIS engine has also been modified suitably for the CNG application. The engine now comes with hardened seat valves and anodized piston valves to compensate for the wear and tear which happens when it runs on dry gaseous fuels like CNG. Chevrolet India is also offering a 3 year or 100,000 kilometers warranty on the CNG Aveo which in many ways displays the confidence the company has in its product.

One thing that you would loose is the boot space which has been mostly occupied by the CNG cylinder but with the performance and economy combination the car represents, the owners wouldn’t mind it at all. The move is aimed at increasing the Aveo sales which have been on a bit of a downward slide since the past few months. The company is also working on the 2012 Aveo which will see an India introduction soon after its international launch.

The new Chevrolet Aveo CNG has been priced at Rs. 6,21,000 Ex-Showroom, Delhi and is a good deal for someone who is looking for class leading economy and performance is a sedan packaged with nice and comfy interiors.

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They say “pictures speak a thousands words” and for once we will do pictures do most of the talking because its unlike anything we have ever seen before.

The bike you see in pictures is designed by Russian Designer Michael Smolyanov and quite frankly undescribable. The bike according to its designer has been made entirely from grown organic material treated with flourine which destructs the organics and processes the carbon of the frame making it stronger and lighter.

Although no powertrain details are out, we can make out from the pictures a large capacity V-Twin engine which could possibly run on environmentally friendly fuels like Ethanol.

We would now let pictures do the talking. Do lets us know via a comment, what do you think of the bike?

Jump over for the gallery images.

source: green.autoblog via twowheelsblog

Image Gallery: m-org Custom Chopper Concept

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• April 6, 2010 -- Toyota Receives 80 Booking For The Prius

Toyota Prius Hybrid @ Auto Expo 2010

The world’s largest selling hybrid car Toyota Prius has received a warm response in the Indian market with 80 confirmed bookings already. Toyota had kept a modest target of selling 200 units this year but with this initial response the company expects the demand to far out strip the supply.

Toyota Prius was launched at the 2010 Delhi Auto Expo with prices starting from Rs 26.55 Lakhs.

“We are happy with the demand for the car and believe that once the cars hit the road demand will go up further. Bookings are robust and should go beyond the 200 cars that we have asked for from TMC, though we are not likely to get any more cars this year. Next year we will deifinitely order more cars… maybe 400 or 500″ said Sandeep Singh, deputy managing director (sales), Toyota Kirloskar Motor.

The Prius is very popular in the United States with the Hollywood green brigade but unlike U.S. us most of the initial demand for the car has come from industrialists and entrepreneurs. Toyota believes that demand from the Bollywood would pick up shortly.

Toyota has so far sold more than 1.5 million units of Prius worldwide making it the most successful hybrid car in the world.

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Toyota Prius Hybrid @ Auto Expo 2010

Toyota Kirloskar Motors have announced the pricing for the third generation Prius Hybrid. The car has been launched in two variants and has been priced at Rs 26.55 Lakhs and Rs 27.86 Lakhs respectively.

For our coverage of Toyota @ auto expo 2010, click here!

The latest generation Prius Hybrid comes to India immediately after its launch in the international market. The Prius is powered by a 1.8 litre gasoline engine which delivers 100 ps which is combined with an electronic motor taking the combined power output to 136 ps.

Aerodynamically designed wheels

The latest generation Prius comes with improved aerodynamics and has a coefficient of drag of only .25cd making it one of the slippiest car around. Other notable improvements include an electric water pump for the engine making it the only production engine that requires no accessory belts improving fuel efficiency and refinement. The batter pack is now smaller and more efficient and so are the other ancillary components like the electric motor and other components of the hybrid powertrain.

The Prius also comes with the latest generation – Toyota Hybrid II, regenerative braking, heads-up display, electronically controlled CVT transmission and push button start system.

Speaking at the Prius launch in India, Mr. Sandeep Singh, DMD-Marketing, said “Through the launch of the Prius, Toyota is keen to demonstrate its commitment to offer the latest eco-friendly automotive technology to its customers in India.”

The new Prius Hybrid is on display at Toyota pavillion at the ongoing Auto Expo in New Delhi.

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Toyota Etios Sedan Concept

We will now start our Auto Expo coverage and what better way than to start with one of the largest car makers on the planet, Toyota.

Toyota Etios Htachback Concept

Apart from the usual suspects the Innova, the recently launched Fortuner and the giant Land Cruiser, Toyota unveiled the all new Etios small car concept, a model which when launched later this year will the first mass market product for the Japanese giant in India. 

The company is hoping to capture 10% of the Indian car market by 2012, an aim which rests almost entirely on the shoulder of their new small car.

The company also showcased the Etios Sedan concept which would take the fight to the other C segment rivals like Hyundai Verna, Ford Fiesta, Fiat Linea, Tata Indigo Manza and the king of the crop Honda City.

The Etios follows Toyota’s age old mantra of playing it safe. Its not designed with the passion and verve of a Fiat’s Grande Punto nor its as futuristic as Honda’s Jazz but one thing that all Toyotas do and do very well at that is being functional and reliable.

The Etios Rear is quite frankly Boring!

Whats amply is clear is that looks will never be the USP of the Etios. Its safely styled and even though the show car was dressed in a striking Imprezish blue color and snazzy gold color alloy wheels, it looked rather boring. The side profile is the best part of the looks with a strong shoulder line that runs across the length of the car ending at the tailights. The front is ok too with the huge chrome grille and nicely creased bonnet in the centre. Its the rear which sort kills a good looking car. It seems that Toyota designer lost the will when it came to designing the rear. For example that chrome bar on the hatch door frankly looks very much out of place!

Toyota Personal Mobility Concept

Toyota also displayed the personal mobility concept, the fuel cell powered low slung concept car which looked like it was designed in the nineties and the soon to be launched Hollywood green brigade’s favourite Prius Hybrid.

Jump over to see more images from the Toyota stall at the Auto Expo.

Toyota @ Auto Expo 2010

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