At present, several hybrid models are available to buy in the UK, from a range of manufacturers. One of the first and still the most popular is Toyota’s Prius, now in its third generation. Toyota is also releasing the new Auris hybrid in 2010, which uses the same ‘Hybrid Synergy Drive’ technology as the Prius, and the manufacturer is on record that it intends to hybridize its entire model range.
Honda currently offers the Civic, Insight and most recently, the CR-Z as hybrid models in the UK. A number of hybrids are also available from Lexus (part of the Toyota group), including the RX450h SUV and the GS450h executive saloon. Other manufacturers are sure to follow suit within the next few years following the popularity of already released hybrids.
The next stage of technological development of hybrids will be plug-in hybrid vehicles. The first of these to become commercially available in the UK will be a Plug-In Prius, although some companies will already convert existing hybrids into plug-ins (at a cost). Toyota’s plug-in hybrid Prius will essentially be the same as the existing Prius with a slightly larger capacity battery and a mains charging plug; and takes the hybrid Prius one step closer to being a battery electric car.
