LeasePlan has become the first UK leasing company to trial the production prototype Toyota Prius Plug-in hybrid prior to its launch in the autumn next year.
The loan will enable LeasePlan to undertake a one-week internal trial before making it available to interested clients on a two-week basis. By having the opportunity of advance testing LeasePlan will be able to assess residual value and on-road performance ahead of the vehicle launch next year.
The Prius Plug-in Hybrid will feature a high capacity rechargeable lithium-ion battery and an ultra efficient 1.8-litre petrol engine. Combined CO2 emissions are predicted to be just 49g/km with combined fuel consumption of 134.5mpg.
The advanced battery technology allows the car to be driven for approximately 14 miles on electric power alone after a charge from a normal house-hold plug taking approximately 90 minutes.
Once Prius Plug-in Hybrid has reached the limits of its electric range it switches seamlessly to its full hybrid system using the electric motor and petrol engine and avoiding the “range anxiety” associated with full electric vehicles.
The Prius Plug-in Hybrid will cost under £31,000 when it goes on sale next year.
