Toyota Prius to have Solar powered air conditioning in 2009

The Toyota Prius gas-electric hybrid will become even greener in 2009 as it introduces solar powered air conditioning on highend models.  The solar panels on the roof of the new Prius model will provide 2 to 5 kilowatts of electricity, The Nikkei said in a report without citing sources. Toyota plans to purchase the panels from Japanese electronics maker Kyocera Corp.

Adding solar panels to a model targeting mass consumers would mark a first for a major automaker, The Nikkei said. Toyota spokesman Paul Nolasco declined to comment, saying the company doesn't comment on product plans.  A Toyota official, speaking on condition of anonymity, has said details on what will be a third-generation Prius will likely be revealed in May 2009. He did not elaborate.

Sales of the Prius have been booming, thanks to soaring gasoline prices and growing worries about global warming. A hybrid delivers better mileage by switching between a gasoline-fueled engine and an electric motor. Toyota has sold more than a million Prius models over the past decade and is planning to sell a million hybrids a year sometime after 2010.

Prius the latest Toyota model to experience trouble

The Prius is the latest Toyota model to hit the headlines for acceleration issues as the hybrid has experienced two high profile runaway incidents this week alone. Read More

Comparing the Toyota Prius and the Chevy Volt

Here is a quick comparison of the Toyota Prius and the Chevy Volt. Read More

Nissan Leaf electric car coming in 2010

Nissan unveiled their new electric car the Nissan Leaf that will hit the market in 2010 and get easily 100 mpg per charge. Read More

Honda Fit Hybrid coming in late 2010

Honda Motors plans to roll out a gas-electric hybrid version of its Fit subcompact next year. The Honda Fit hybrid is expected in late 2010 and Honda is hoping to tap growing demand for low-emission vehicles. Read More

Toyota Supra Hybrid back in the plans

Toyota has the Supra Hybrid back in the plans for 2011 and it will be the sharpest hybrid on the market when it arrives. Read More