At the Geneva Auto Show, Toyota is full steam ahead on the launch of its upcoming Auris Hybrid–a for-European-eyes-only hatchback based on the Corolla platform. In addition to the hybrid, the new Auris is available in straight up gasoline and diesel versions. The car represents the company’s first attempt at a compact hybrid, and it’s a rather impressive one at that.
Based on the European cycle, the Auris achieves 61.9 miles per gallon and only emits 89 grams of carbon dioxide per kilometer driven. The car can also operate as a pure EV for 1.25 miles at speeds under 31 mph. When in this mode the car itself has zero emissions. There are also a series of solar panels on the roof that provide power to a ventilation system to cool the cabin while the car is parked on hot days and more solar panels on the dash to provide juice for portable electronics charging.
The car will be the first Toyota hybrid built in Europe when production begins later this quarter. No word on pricing yet, but as a compact you can expect it to be significantly less than a Prius. And, as always, if you’re pissed that it won’t be available in the US, be sure to let Toyota know.
Check out the gallery of the concept car below and the full press release on the next page.
Source: Toyota
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Bring it to the US now!