WITH the introduction of the new Prius to the Saudi market, Kingdom's automotive experts have learned about the numerous tech advantages to owning Toyota's most popular hybrid. In a special test drive event organized by Abdul Latif Jameel Company, the drivers were allowed to have the full Prius experience and truly learn why Toyota calls the Prius a "Beautiful Hybrid." First released to the public in 1997, the Prius has been on the receiving end of incremental improvements over the years that have increased its overall gas efficiency to 26.1 km per liter, making visits to the petrol station fewer and further in between and the cost of automobile usage significantly less. Also, with two batteries that are continuously charged when braking and decelerating, there is no need for the plug-in charging that is such an inconvenient component of electric cars. The new Prius is also the first vehicle designed using the Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA), which modularizes R&D in addition to integrating development and manufacturing. Using this system, the skeletal structure of the Prius was improved with an increase in torsional rigidity of more than 60 percent compared to previous models, maximizing the performance of the suspension for better control and a quieter, more stable ride. TNGA offers not only improved handling, but also enhanced overall driving performance and fuel economy—not to mention more attractive styling. TNGA is also behind the instant, no-lag acceleration and the seamless transition to from the electric to the gas engine. The occupant-friendly interior focuses on ease of use, with a design that aims to evoke the car's advanced capabilities while remaining warm and welcoming. The instrument panel, with its thin, horizontal design and smooth surfaces, consolidates operational areas near the driver and places information areas further away. The large color Head-Up Display (HUD) projects a range of important information – from driver alerts, speed and an energy meter – on to the windscreen in the driver's line of sight. Based on a policy that always puts the guest first and demands nothing short of excellence, Abdul Latif Jameel's provides support for the great ubiquity of Toyota vehicles in the Saudi market through a sprawling network of strategically placed sales and service centers, which provides happy motoring and peace of mind to guests wherever they might be in the Kingdom.
