Toyota has simply launched a fifth-generation Prius whose plug-in hybrid variant is claimed to ship an electrical vary that is greater than 50% increased than the earlier technology’s 25 miles. Nevertheless, the corporate is engaged on plug-in hybrids that can provide considerably extra vary.

At a presentation on Friday outlining Toyota’s technique for the approaching decade, Hiroki Nakajima, Toyota’s chief expertise officer, mentioned the corporate plans plug-in hybrids that can be capable of journey greater than 124 miles on electrical energy alone. He did not say on what take a look at cycle such a variety might be achieved, however it’s probably based mostly on the WLTP cycle used abroad, which is extra lenient than the EPA cycle. He additionally did not point out timing.

Nakajima mentioned Toyota needs to place its future plug-in hybrids as “sensible” electrical vehicles. The standard proprietor would probably solely use the car in electrical mode for many journeys, with the internal-combustion engine being there as a backup for infrequent longer journeys or for journeys in areas the place charging infrastructure is missing.

Nakajima mentioned the corporate is growing extra environment friendly batteries for its next-generation electrical vehicles set to start arriving in 2026, and that the batteries are anticipated to extend vary by an element of two in comparison with Toyota’s present EVs.

It is potential the identical batteries will find yourself in Toyota’s long-range plug-in hybrids. An alternate could also be solid-state batteries, which Toyota is growing. The corporate has mentioned its first utility for a solid-state battery will probably be in a hybrid car. The additional power density of solid-state batteries imply they’ll ship way more vary than a liquid-type battery of the identical weight.

On the presentation, Nakajima additionally mentioned Toyota plans to pursue mass manufacturing of hydrogen-electric powertrains, albeit for business autos resembling medium- and heavy-duty vans and never passenger autos. Benefits, assuming hydrogen refueling stations can be found, embody lots much less weight than battery-electric vans, in addition to a lot sooner refueling.