Six new hybrid models from Toyota in 2012

In addition to the 2011 Toyota Camry Hybrid, Chicago area residents will be able to enjoy some additional hybrid choices from Toyota.  These gas-electric cars will be rolling out by the end of 2012, so we have some time to wait…As patiently as possible, which might be difficult if you are a hybrid enthusiast like my neighbor Mike…He can’t get enough of these environmentally friendly autos.  Now, he has even more to look forward to!

Toyota will be teaming up with Tesla Motors.  To those of you unfamiliar with this company, it was started in 2003 by a group of individuals whose goal was to produce some sporty looking electric cars.  Currently, you can find about 1,000 Tesla Roadster models spread out over 25 countries.  These cool autos are emissions free, which puts less strain on the environment.  Plus, they are just hot looking cars.

One hybrid that Toyota will be rolling out is an all-electric RAV4 SUV.  Anyone lucky enough to attend LA’s Auto Show this coming November will be able to check it out.  It will feature Tesla’s electric powertrain system, which is a 248 HP, three phrase, four pole electric motor that can soar from 0 to 60 in 3.7 seconds.  It’s not 100% clear if the all-electric RAV 4 will get the exact same system as found in the Tesla Roadster, but expect something in that power range.  Sounds like a very exciting vehicle.

Moreover, a plug-in Prius is in the works to be sold as a Chicago Toyota hybrid option.  The Prius with a gas-electric engine has been on the lots at Schaumburg  Toyota for awhile now, but the plug-in version will be another Prius to consider, as it’s set to rival the Chevy Volt and Nissan Leaf which are being rolled out.  The plug-in Prius will feature many of the same amenities current Prius lovers already enjoy.

Other hybrid options are also in the works to be released by Toyota.  By 2015, Toyota is working hard to have fuel-cell autos available in areas that have hydrogen fueling stations.  The car world is certainly changing all the time, with hybrid models soaring their way up the popularity chart.