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Toyota Motor Corporation Managing Officer Satoshi Ogiso recently announced that the next-generation Prius will benefit from major design and technical modifications. Furthermore, Toyota plans to bring a total of 15 hybrid vehicles, whether new or totally re-designed, to market in the near future.

Photo: Toyota

The next-generation Prius will undergo a series of changes that includes:

• New hybrid groups, lighter and more affordable, improved fuel efficiency;
• Upgraded battery technology with denser storage capacity, increased use of magnesium and other chemical components in order to replace lithium;
• Smaller engines;
• Introduction of Toyota's new global architecture (TNGA) which offers a lower center of gravity;
• Improved aerodynamic efficiency;
• Larger passenger compartments with enhanced design and ergonomy for improved ease of use.

Furthermore, Toyota is planning the November Tokyo launch of its hydrogen fuel-cell powered intermediate sedan concept, which is an important element in Toyota's future plans. The North-American launch of this sedan is planned for the Las Vegas Consumer Electronics Show, which is held in January.

Photo: Toyota