The Toyota Motor Corp. is intensifying its commitment in the production of hybrids and environment-friendly auto technology. The Japanese automaker’s latest venture is the plug-in version of its iconic Prius.

Under high-load situations such as high-speed roads, Prius PHEV, the petrol engine will operate alike, leaving the car with the same aptitude to go faster and use freeways. Current converted Prius also operate in a high speed blended mode which can reduce but not eliminate petrol consumption on the freeway.

When driving in slower conditions or other light loads, the batteries will be used first in a charge-depleting mode, allowing moderate commutes at low speeds to be driven entirely on electricity. Once the batteries have been sufficiently discharged the car will automatically revert back to the charge-sustaining mode of the present Prius. Safe lithium-based batteries will be available, slashing all risk of run-away thermal conditions as seen in some laptop computer batteries.

Everyone has seen the futuristic Toyota Prius as they have navigated the highways. It arrived on the scene in 2004 and was quick to gain supporters. Its popularity soared in Hollywood among those whose “green” lifestyle needed a matching car. Other California drivers grew interested when the state of California issued HOV passes for those driving the Toyota Prius.

The design hasn’t changed much in 2008, but it remains a hot seller. The Manufacturers Retail price for a 2008 Toyota Prius starts at 22,000. With climbing gas prices they are hard to find. The Prius is powered by a battery powered electric motor and a gasoline engine. They can either work together or by themselves. This combination gets the driver the best fuel economy.