Frequently Asked Questions
You should never drive Prius Prime without gasoline in the tank. While, under certain conditions, you may drive on electricity alone, the vehicle always requires gasoline to operate properly.
No, but it is generally advantageous to keep it charged. Depending on your electricity rate, you could save money by plugging it in. The more often you keep Prius Prime fully charged (at home, work or anywhere with a public charging station), the greater your gasoline fuel savings will be.
Prius Prime uses a series parallel hybrid system, which means it can drive the wheels using both electric motors and/or its gas engine. If the battery is fully charged, Prius Prime runs on the electric motors only. When the battery runs out, it operates like Prius, using both the gas engine and electric motors to drive the car as they are needed and available.
Prius Prime's battery can be charged in less than 5 hours and 30 minutes by plugging the included charging cable into a standard household outlet. When using a public charging station (240V), Prius Prime can be fully charged in approximately 2 hours and 10 minutes.
The battery in Prius Prime is designed to last for the life of the vehicle.
A plug-in hybrid vehicle (PHV) is similar to Prius, but with a larger battery and more powerful motors that allow it to run much longer in full EV Mode. You are in control and able to use less gas if you choose to plug it in either at home, at work or at a public charging station. If you don’t want to plug it in, no problem, you can still drive the car in hybrid mode with great fuel economy.
Prius Prime works similarly to a standard Prius, but with an increased EV Mode driving range, more powerful electric motors and enhanced fuel efficiency. It continues to set itself apart with a completely unique front and rear design. The advanced Quad-LED projector headlights, LED taillights and signals help light the night in a most dramatic and efficient fashion. The aerodynamically formed rear glass and hatch represents another leap forward. The carbon-fiber-reinforced-polymer construction is a Toyota first and results in a lightweight, easy-to-lift hatch.
No, but it is generally advantageous to keep it charged. Depending on your electricity rate, you could save money by plugging it in. The more often you keep Prius Prime fully charged (at home, work or anywhere with a public charging station), the greater your gasoline fuel savings will be.
Prius Prime's battery can be charged in less than 5 hours and 30 minutes by plugging the included charging cable into a standard household outlet. When using a public charging station (240V), Prius Prime can be fully charged in approximately 2 hours and 10 minutes.
The battery in Prius Prime is designed to last for the life of the vehicle.
Prius Prime must be plugged in to fully recharge the battery. The vehicle can also partially charge itself with onboard charging, as well as with a regenerative braking system that works during deceleration. When braking, it uses kinetic energy from the front wheels to produce electricity that partially recharges the battery and helps extend your range.
Even when the battery charge is empty, Prius Prime will continue operating in hybrid mode as long as there is enough fuel in the gas tank, so you don’t have to worry about running out of the battery power while on a longer trip.
No special charging equipment is required for Prius Prime. Prius Prime comes with a standard-outlet charging cable.
You can easily charge Prius Prime’s battery by plugging its included charging cable into a standard electrical outlet. No additional charging equipment is needed.
To maximize your savings and minimize your emissions, you should charge as often as possible to enjoy the most electric drive miles. If the charge does run out, Prius Prime has a gasoline hybrid system, so you can leave range anxiety behind and start looking ahead.
Standard 15-amp GFCI outlets are usually 120V, while charging stations feature 240V charging that typically charges about twice as fast as a 120V standard 15-amp outlet. If you want faster charging at home, a licensed electrician can install a 240V charger to help decrease charge times and increase convenience.
Easily find nearby charging stations with the available Charging Station Map located on the available 11.6-in. multimedia display. Plugging in on the go has never been easier. For more information, please visit our charging map.
Prius Prime uses less than 3.3 kW to charge with a wall-mounted level 2 charger, which is roughly equivalent to powering a small, residential air-conditioning unit. Using the included charging cable requires much less power.
Prius Prime uses the industry standard J1772 for charging. Fully compliant equipment should work with Prime. The included charging cable maximizes the compatibility.
The charge inlet door is located on the right rear quarter panel. Use the supplied charging cable by plugging it into a standard household outlet as often as possible to help maximize your miles.
Even when the battery charge is empty, Prius Prime will continue operating in hybrid mode as long as there is enough fuel in the gas tank, so you don’t have to worry about running out of the battery power while on a longer trip.
You should never drive Prius Prime without gasoline in the tank. While, under certain conditions, you may drive in EV Mode alone, the vehicle always requires gasoline to operate properly.
This helps compare the mileage of driving in EV Mode to the commonly used mpg figure for gas vehicles. So by driving Prius Prime in EV Mode, it has up to an EPA-estimated 133 MPGe. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) uses the mpg equivalent (MPGe) figure to convert the measurement of power used by plug-in hybrid vehicles, electric vehicles and others not powered by liquid fuels into something that resembles the more familiar mpg rating.
When fully charged, Prius Prime is rated for an EPA-estimated driving range of 25 miles in EV Mode before converting to HV Mode. Prius Prime will then continue in HV Mode until the battery is recharged.
Yes. In general, Prius Prime’s performance will be affected just like a gas-powered vehicle. Extra cabin heating and other factors will use up electricity that could be used for driving, reducing EV Mode range. However, an electric heater has been installed inside the battery pack to boost battery temperature. This enhances EV mileage and drivability in cold temperatures and reduces engine startup during EV Mode. And don’t worry, if your battery ever runs low, Prius Prime will seamlessly shift into hybrid mode to keep you going.
The electric motors of Prius Prime deliver a smoother start than a gas engine. Prius Prime performance is also boosted by Toyota’s first dual motor drive system, delivering fun-to-drive acceleration that is smooth from the start and while driving at highway speeds.
Prius Prime works similarly to a standard Prius, but with an increased EV Mode driving range, more powerful electric motors and enhanced fuel efficiency. It continues to set itself apart with a completely unique front and rear design. The advanced Quad-LED projector headlights, LED taillights and signals help light the night in a most dramatic and efficient fashion. The aerodynamically formed rear glass and hatch represents another leap forward. The carbon-fiber-reinforced-polymer construction is a Toyota first and results in a lightweight, easy-to-lift hatch.
Prius Prime’s dramatic style is apparent at first glance, but this iconic look creates another benefit that pleases more than the eye. Features like the aerodynamic dual-wave rear glass help it achieve a highly efficient shape. This allows Prius Prime to reduce air resistance and contributes to the EPA-estimated 133 MPGe.
In addition to its hybrid powertrain, Prius Prime is equipped with a host of features to help you achieve more. The eco-sensitive LED (light-emitting diode) headlights use 20% to 30% less energy than traditional headlights. The wind-cheating shape, active grille shutter, lightweight materials and low-rolling-resistance tires all help enhance fuel efficiency so you can create new possibilities.
You should try to drive in EV Mode as often as possible. The more you keep the battery charged the more you can use electric mode, which saves gas and helps you save money.
Prius Prime can help reduce total vehicle emissions by using electricity to decrease gasoline consumption. In many areas of the U.S., electricity produces fewer emissions per mile than gasoline. Depending on the cost of electricity, it can also cost less per mile to drive on electricity versus gasoline. All of this helps makes Prius Prime good for you and good for all.
An 8.8-kWh battery pack is thoughtfully placed in the rear of the vehicle. The battery has been optimized for daily commutes, providing more interior room for your rear passengers and an EPA-estimated 25 miles of driving range in EV Mode.
Prius Prime's hybrid engine is engineered for efficiency. The 1.8L Atkinson-cycle, 4-cylinder engine has an EPA-estimated 54 combined mpg.
Prius Prime employs a variety of smart features to help maximize your efficiency. The Multi-Information Display on the dash provides interactive feedback on your trip via steering wheel controls, real-time driving data and an Eco Score that provides tips to help enhance your efficiency. Click here to see all of Prius Prime’s smart, efficient features.
Prius Prime includes an innovative dual motor drive system. This Toyota-first technology allows the generator to also function as an electric motor and work in tandem with the electric drive motor – resulting in outstanding EV Mode performance all the way up to full highway speeds.
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, plug-in hybrids can save over 5,000 lbs. of CO2 equivalent per year compared to gas-powered vehicles.
Prius Prime holds up to 11.3 gallons of gas.
Yes. In general, Prius Prime’s performance will be affected just like a gas-powered vehicle. Extra cabin heating and other factors will use up electricity that could be used for driving, reducing EV Mode range. However, an electric heater has been installed inside the battery pack to help boost battery temperature. This helps enhance EV mileage and drivability in cold temperatures and reduces engine startup during EV Mode. And don’t worry, if your battery ever runs low, Prius Prime will seamlessly shift into hybrid mode to keep you going.
EV Mode helps maximize fuel efficiency with an EPA-estimated 133 MPGe.
Taking care of your Prius Prime is key to both safety and dependability. That's why we include ToyotaCare, our no cost maintenance plan, with the purchase or lease of every new Toyota for 2 years or 25,000 miles, whichever comes first. 24-hour Roadside Assistance is also included for 3 years, regardless of mileage.
Individual purchasers of a Prius Prime may be able to take advantage of tax credits and other incentives. To see if incentives may apply, please visit our full list of incentives.
The battery in Prius Prime is designed to last for the life of the vehicle.
Prius Prime’s battery is virtually maintenance-free; however it does require periodic inspections to ensure it operates as efficiently as possible.
Yes. As you get within three feet of your Prime, with the Smart Key fob in your pocket or purse, the interior lights will automatically illuminate, the driver's door can be unlocked with just a touch, and the vehicle can be started with a push of a button.
Prius Prime's available color Head-Up Display (HUD) uses aircraft-inspired technology to project important information about your drive on the windshield where it’s convenient to see. Easily view the current speed, energy monitor, turn-by-turn navigation directions, battery charge, and Toyota Safety Sense™ 2.0 (TSS 2.0) alerts—all without taking your eyes off the road.
When in range, hold the A/C button on your key fob for two seconds to turn on the A/C system. It will run for up to ten minutes, cooling your vehicle, before you ever get inside.
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, plug-in hybrids can save over 5,000 lbs. of CO2 equivalent per year compared to gas-powered vehicles.
Taking care of your Prius Prime is key to both safety and dependability. That's why we include ToyotaCare, our no cost maintenance plan, with the purchase or lease of every new Toyota for 2 years or 25,000 miles, whichever comes first. 24-hour Roadside Assistance is also included for 3 years, regardless of mileage.
Prius Prime's available 11.6-in. multimedia display features a host of entertainment and streaming services. Intuitive pinch, zoom, tap and swipe gestures create a familiar smartphone-like experience while giving you easy access to the features that matter most. Get turn-by-turn directions, a SiriusXM® 3-month Platinum Plan trial subscription, and traffic and weather with HD Radio™.
Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (DRCC) uses forward-sensing radar technology and an intelligent camera to detect the speed and distance of the vehicle traveling directly ahead of you and adjusts your speed accordingly. It works in traffic, as well, helping you maintain a preset following distance, slowing when the preset distance shortens all the way to a stop, and then accelerating back to your original cruising speed when the road clears.
The Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection (PCS w/PD) is designed to provide alert, mitigation, and/or avoidance support in certain conditions. When the system detects a potential collision with a preceding vehicle or pedestrian, the advanced millimeter-wave radar sensor system and camera sensor provide an audible alert to begin braking. If the driver does not respond, the system may automatically apply the brakes and bring the vehicle to a complete stop. http://www.toyota.com/safety-sense
Prius Prime offers remarkable versatility when it comes to cargo space. Lift the rear hatch to access 19.8 cu. ft. of cargo space.