| Hybrid
cars combine a standard engine with an electric motor and batteries
to dramatically improve fuel efficiency.
Fleet
Services Manager Fred Sloots says the Prius was introduced to Council
to check the vehicle's suitability for Council requirements. A broad
range of Council Staff who test drove the vehicle made positive
comment about the Prius' roominess, safety features, comfort and
road-handling abilities.
Purchase
of the Prius was one of the recommendations of the recent Greenhouse
Management and Energy Cost Reduction Plan for TCC. Ann Bunnell says
the Prius has more than 50% reductions in fuel demand and greenhouse
emissions compared with a standard Council fleet car.
Said
also said that the Prius is estimated to save 500 litres in fuel
costs and reduce greenhouse emissions by about 1.4 tonnes per annum.
The
Prius will be used as a pool car for the Environmental Management
Services Section in Council, and will be a visibile demonstration
of energy efficient technology and greenhouse gas control.
Visit
the Toyota Prius website
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