Toyota introduces new Prius & Easy Seat technology at 2012 Auto Expo

Showcasing its noteworthy range of automobiles across segments, Toyota cars took up quite a bit of display area at Pragati Maidan. While major attractions for most Toyota fans present was the unveiling of the new face-lifted versions of the Fortuner SUV and the massively popular Innova MPV, a special corner was reserved for the Japanese car makers revolutionary ‘green car’, the Prius and its well-to-do mainstream compact sedan, the Toyota Corolla Altis.

On display at this year’s Auto Expo, the third generation of the world’s most awarded Hybrid passenger car once again leaped forward in its efforts towards energy conservation with the integration of all new Solar Ventilation System that basically uses solar panels fitted on the moon roof to directly generate electricity that is in turn used to keep the cabin cool even when the vehicle is parked.

The Remote Air Conditioning System enables you to operate the air conditioning system by remote control even before entering the car, lowering the temperature inside the cabin well before you get back inside. The new Prius is priced between Rs. 27 lakh & Rs.29 lakh (ex-showrooms Delhi).

Commenting on the development and implementation of this new eco-friendly ventilation system for the new Prius, Shekar Viswanathan, Deputy Managing Director , Commercial, TKM, said, “The new Prius has further enhanced its technological offerings with the unique and innovative solar powered ventilation system .This feature an engineering marvel is one of its kind in the industry. We hope to see more Prius customers and contribute to the growth of the Indian hybrid market and thereby contribute to a greener tomorrow.”

Also present at the Toyota stall was the globally successful Corolla Altis sedan that took on a very socially benevolent avatar through the integration of the company’s first ever Easy Seat technology in the country. Using a swivel and slide mechanism the ‘Easy Seat’ allows easy entry and exit for senior co-passengers with special medical conditions like arthritis, knee related ailments etc.

At an additional cost of Rs. 29,979/- (Toyota Dealer Price in Delhi) the ‘Easy Seat’ functionality comes with a one year warranty offered by M/s Graphica Design Solutions Pvt. Ltd. It is made against order and the fitment will be done at all authorized Toyota dealerships only.

Speaking at the introduction of the ‘Easy Seat’ technology in the new Corolla Altis, Sandeep Singh, Deputy Managing Director, Marketing said, “We are glad to introduce the Easy Seat, which will enable us to serve our customers better and cater to their special needs. Toyota’s global policy is to pro actively provide travel solutions to a cross section of people. It is looked upon as our social responsibility.”

Both the Solar Ventilation System on the new Toyota Prius and the Easy Seat technology on Corolla Altis sedan are worthy contributions by Toyota at addressing the country’s typical needs for comfort and at the same time promoting proper use of renewable energy resources.