When Toyota first released the Prius, they had no way of knowing the power it would have over the car market. To this day, it sets the precedent for the performance and efficiency one expects from a hybrid, and there is no doubt that Toyota will continue to be a trendsetter in green vehicle technology. Hanford Toyota Scion is particularly sure of this fact since the Detroit Auto Show this month, where Toyota unveiled a hybrid that is not destined to become a member of the Prius family, but will certainly please a variety of drivers.

Don't get us wrong, we love the Prius. But this new hybrid from Toyota, the Toyota NS4 concept, is a striking plug-in hybrid that features the latest in safety and efficiency technology. According to the people over at Toyota, it's merely a glimpse into some of their future design language. With a solar panel roof and around-view cameras instead of side mirrors, we're certain it will strike a chord with the eco-minder driver, as well as the shopper looking for something that will seamlessly integrate into their everyday lives.

Jim Lentz, President and CEO of Toyota Motor Sales America explains some of the ideals that helped shape the NS4. "In this digital age, cars are becoming another spoke in the wheel of our electronic connectivity. NS4 Demonstrates Toyota's take on the human connection to the car with technology that considers both emotional and rational relationships, person-to-car and car-to-society."¹

But of course, this is just one of the ways Toyota aims to enhance the lives of the tech-savvy and eco-minded driver. The Japanese automaker also introduced the Toyota Prius C in Detroit, a smaller hybrid designed for the urban driver. The C arrived at the auto show with a peppy 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine, an EPA-estimated 50-mpg, and a price tag of under $20,000. What's not to like about that?

Not much, which is why Hanford Toyota Scion is excited to see the automaker adding even more offerings to their hybrid lineup. Of the rapid expansion, Lentz says, "The continued success of our conventional hybrid vehicles has laid strong groundwork for market acceptance for future technologies. NS4 demonstrates Toyota's ongoing commitment to enhancing the safety, efficiency, and convenience of future mobility for people everywhere."²

Interested in learning more about all of the ways Toyota continues to transform their lineup into the most fuel-efficient and fun-to-drive lineup available? Stop in and see us at Hanford Toyota Scion, 1835 Glendale Ave Hanford, CA 93230 to learn more. Or, take a minute to explore our new Toyota inventory online, and then drop us a line about any of the models that catch your eye.

Source: ^1,2http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/10/toyota-ns4-concept-detroit-2012/