Toyota launches Crown Sport-type PHEV model in Japan

Toyota Motor Corporation began sales of its all-new Crown Sport Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV) model in Japan. Equipped with a high-output density drive motor, the Sport PHEV reaches a maximum system output of 225kW (306PS). A large-capacity lithium-ion battery has been positioned beneath the floor in the center of the vehicle. A fully charged battery delivers a BEV-mode driving range of 90 kilometers (56 miles) and a hybrid-mode fuel economy of 20.3km/L (48 mpg US).

With a gasoline tank capacity of 55L, the PHEV offers a total cruising range of 1,200 kilometers (746 miles) or more.

With an E-Four electric 4WD system, the power produced by the plug-in hybrid system is fully distributed between all four wheels. In addition to achieving superior driving stability, it also has enhanced the sense of stability even when cornering or driving in snow or rain.

2.5-liter Series Parallel Plug-in Hybrid System

The Crown Sport PHEV model is based on the Sport Z grade, HEV model, but features added braces to the floor tunnel to ensure an optimal balance of body rigidity. The friction and damping force characteristics of the front and rear shock absorbers have also been optimized.

In addition, by controlling the damping force of the shock absorbers independently for each wheel in response to road surface conditions and driver input, the Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) system delivers a smooth, even, and planted ride.

Paddle shifters allow the driver to carry out smooth gear shifts with minimal hand movements.

The front wheels are fitted with 20-inch ventilated disc brakes, with the braking force delivered by exclusive 20-inch aluminum opposing six-piston calipers. Both front and rear brake calipers are colored red for a braking set-up that combines improved stopping performance with a sporty exterior.

The Sport PHEV model comes with a “My Room Mode” that lets users enjoy air conditioning and audio systems from the external power source by turning the power switch on during normal charging.

In addition to an accessory electrical socket in the luggage compartment and in the rear end of the center console box, the Sport PHEV model comes with a vehicle power connector that, when plugged into the vehicle’s charging inlet, functions as an external power socket providing 1,500W (AC 100V).

The vehicle is equipped with both standard charging and rapid charging functions. The rapid charging function is capable of charging the battery to approximately 80% of its full capacity in approximately 38 minutes, providing significant time savings over standard charging with the 200V charging cable.

The vehicle is also equipped with Vehicle to Home (V2H), a system that allows electricity stored in the vehicle battery to be supplied to the home, enabling the vehicle to be used as a reliable storage battery during blackouts and other times of emergency. By setting the rapid charging inlet to external supply function-mode (V2H-mode) and subsequently connecting the V2H device (sold separately), the electricity stored in the drive battery can be used as household electricity. Surplus electricity generated via household solar power generators can be used to charge the vehicle’s drive battery to achieve a seamless supply and demand of electricity.

The vehicle comes with both a BEV external power supply mode, which enables electricity stored in the battery to be used to supply external power for outdoor, leisure, and other activities, and an HEV external power supply mode, which enables the car to be used as a power supply during blackouts, disasters, and other emergencies. In the HEV external power supply mode, electricity is supplied from the battery only until the remaining power falls to a set level, after which the engine starts to supply electricity.

With a full battery charge and a full tank of gas, this system can provide enough electricity for about 6.5 days of use. It also comes with an external electric power supply attachment as standard so that an external power supply is possible with the door windows closed to prevent rain and insects from getting in the car when in use.