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Fuel-efficient SUV:
Toyota unveils the 2007 Highlander Hybrid
Toyota Canada Inc. has unveiled a more environmentally-friendly sport utility vehicle—the Highlander Hybrid 2007. According to Toyota, it has the fuel economy of an average compact car, and superior emissions performance.
Safety enhancements on the vehicle—which is available in both five- and seven-passenger configurations—include standard front seat side airbags, and roll-sensing front and rear head/side curtain airbags.
The 3.3-litre V6 engine works with a high-torque electric drive motor, to produce the equivalent of 268 horsepower. Under normal conditions, the Highlander Hybrid operates in front-wheel drive mode for maximum fuel efficiency. When additional traction is required, the system automatically switches into four-wheel drive with intelligence, employing a separate 50-kilowatt rear electric motor, which provides up to 96 lb/foot of torque, Toyota reports.
The power steering pump and air conditioning are driven by the electric motor, ensuring they’re available when the gas engine shuts off, especially when the vehicle stops or is being driven slowly.
A 288-volt DC nickel metal hybrid battery is fitted under the middle seat. The battery design provides longer periods of electric-mode-only driving. Additional power to charge the battery is captured through the regenerative braking system. When the vehicle is coasting or the brakes are applied, the electric motors function as generators, capturing kinetic energy that would normally be lost as heat through the brakes.
Fuel consumption is given at 7.7 litres per 100 km in the city; 8.3 litres on the highway; and 7.9 litres combined.
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