With a string of hybrid successes already under its belt, any new innovation from the Toyota Motor Corporation is sure to turn heads, and now the company has unveiled its latest hybrid car design.
The Sai Compact luxury hybrid saloon car is based on the platform used for the Lexus HS250h, and is scheduled to go on sale in Japan in December.
It features a 2.4litre Atkinson cycle four-cylinder with variable valve timing with intelligence, along with a 105kW motor and reduction gear. The engine achieves a high expansion ratio at low pressure by delaying intake valve closure, which in turn raises the heat efficiency.
Unsurprisingly, its fuel economy figures are impressive at 54mpg, but there is no sacrifice for performance levels. The engine develops 110kW and maximum torque of 187Nm while the motor has maximum output of 105kW and maximum torque of 270Nm. The Toyota Sai compact uses a NiMH battery pack, while the transaxle's compact high-speed motor manages to gain increased output with a reduction gear that increases torque.
To reduce engine warming time, the Toyota Sai has an exhaust heat recovery system that uses exhaust gas to heat the engine, shortening the warming time and contributing to greatly improved fuel efficiency. To further the vehicle's environmental credentials, ecological plastic – which is made from plant-derived materials – are used for approximately 60 per cent of the interior surface area.
Drivers can also select eco-drive mode, which prioritises fuel efficiency and moderates driving force relative to accelerator operation. It also puts the air conditioner into a low energy consumption mode. Electric vehicle drive mode is also available, which uses the electric motor only, allowing for quiet cruising and zero emissions.
Toyota is hoping to sell around 3,000 units of the Sai compact in Japan every month.
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