GENEVA 2012: TOYOTA YARIS HYBRID IS FOR MZANSI!

The Yaris Hybrid makes its world debut today at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show. It combines the ingenious packaging and urban agility of the Yaris model range with the unique driving experience and efficiency of Toyota’s full hybrid powertrain, Hybrid Synergy Drive (HSD). The new Yaris Hybrid launch marks a new, major step in the company’s full hybrid roll-out strategy to Toyota core models in Europe and certain key markets including South Africa.

Following the launch of the Auris HSD in Europe in 2010 (South Africa in 2011), the Yaris Hybrid is Toyota’s second core model to feature Full Hybrid technology, and brings this remarkable powertrain to the biggest volume segment.

The new flagship of the Yaris model range, the Yaris Hybrid features an exclusive, aerodynamically efficient exterior design. Featuring the new design face of the Toyota brand, it combines a new, more assertive trapezoid opening frontal design element with the Keen Look design implemented on the front lamps.

The Yaris Hybrid features the first downsizing of Toyota’s HSD powertrain. Combining a new, 1.5 litre petrol engine with a lighter, more compact electric motor, transaxle, inverter and battery pack, the new system is 20% lighter than that of an Auris Hybrid.

Thanks to the reduction in size of every key HSD component and both fuel tank and battery installed under the rear seat, the Yaris Hybrid features an identical occupant space and the same 286 litre luggage capacity to that of the conventional models.

The Yaris Hybrid’s highly efficient, 74kW powertrain offers a leading balance of performance and CO2 emissions in the B-segment, whilst allowing customers to frequently drive in modes that emit zero NOx, PM and CO2 emissions. In fact taking data from a variety of journey types, it can be seen that the cumulative effect of the full hybrid powertrain leads to high proportions (up to 66%) of zero-emissions operation.

With air conditioning and automatic transmission installed as standard, this high level of efficiency does not mean that customers have to compromise on comfort to achieve class-leading emissions.
Combining striking design, urban agility, functionality and segment-best packaging with the innovation, efficiency and environmental credentials of Toyota’s full hybrid technology, it represents the most advanced Yaris yet by Toyota.

Developed to become the most affordable full hybrid on the market, the new Yaris Hybrid goes on sale throughout Europe after its world premiere at the Geneva Motor Show; the South African launch date is June 2012.

STORY BY TOYOTA