The following definition perfectly illustrates the subject of this article: a hybrid vehicle uses at least two energy sources, from which at least two are of different natures, and one of is reversible.
 

Although the appearance of the first hybrid vehicle dates from 1899 – for which we can thank Dr. Ferdinand Porsche in Austria - their industrial development has really begun only in the last two decades.
 

Indeed, the first hybrid vehicles marketed were produced by Japanese companies. Since the mass introduction of the first hybrid vehicle by Toyota in 1997 (the Prius) that sold nearly 4 million units, several manufacturers have announced their willingness to invest in this new sub-sector. Since 1997, more than 13 million Toyota hybrid vehicles have been sold worldwide. Within the same timeframe, other major car manufacturers have embarked on the hybridization of certain models of their vehicles. In 2019, the number of hybrid vehicles is growing strong, and the trend seems well established. Today, 33 hybrid models are marketed in more than 90 countries. This trend coincides with the increase in the price of crude oil and environmental issues, two factors that drove the automotive industry to develop more fuel-efficient technologies in order to generate less greenhouse gas emissions.
 

In Canada, the transportation sector is responsible for almost a quarter of greenhouse gas emissions. This worrying environmental trend is pushing car manufacturers to do more to reduce their vehicles’ carbon footprint. Toyota, a precursor in mobility, is pushing its engineers to work hard to further the refinement of its hybrid and electric vehicles. Toyota St-Jerome, your Toyota dealer on the North Shore, near Laval and Sainte-Agathe-des-Monts in the Laurentians, is really interested in the development of these advanced technologies.
 

As you know, hybrid electric vehicles are a viable and powerful solution. By combining an electric motor and a combustion engine, these vehicles have a great potential to reduce fuel consumption without sacrificing autonomy. The presence of two engines and two energy sources requires a controller, called the energy management system, which is responsible for the simultaneous control of both engines. The performance of the vehicle in terms of consumption depends in part on the design of this controller. Rechargeable hybrid electric vehicles, which are newer than their non-rechargeable counterparts, are distinguished by the addition of an internal charger allowing the battery to be recharged while the vehicle is not moving, thus slowing down the discharge rate of the car’s battery. Toyota Canada offers a growing line of Toyota hybrid vehicles.
 

Now, back to the question: why choose a hybrid vehicle? Let’s add some information to fully answer it. When you buy a hybrid vehicle, you can expect a reduced fuel consumption, the comfort of driving in the city at low speeds, but also the ability to engage on the highway. In addition, the silent driving, the fluidity of the propulsion and the ease of maneuver also count in the choice of a hybrid car.

On the performance side, Toyota's hybrids make no compromises. The best part of this story is that hybrid vehicles recharge while you drive. This indicates that your vehicle never needs to be plugged in, or at least a lot less than what you think. When you buy a hybrid vehicle, you make an eco-responsible choice, you contribute to the improvement of the air quality and you enter the future of motor vehicles.
 

From subcompacts to SUVs, Toyota's hybrid vehicle line is the most comprehensive on the global market (Camry Hybrid, RAV4 Hybrid, Highlander Hybrid, Prius C, Prius and Prius Prime). Plus, Toyota gives an 8 year or 160,000 km warranty on all its hybrid vehicles. In addition, Toyota's hybrid system can determine and use the most optimal combination for you between the electric motor and the gasoline engine depending on the driving conditions. We must also add that Toyota Hybrids are designed to deliver performance levels equal to or better than their gasoline counterpart. With a hybrid vehicle, you'll also need to make fewer service visits at your dealership.

Since the launch of the Prius in 1997, this wide range of Toyota hybrid vehicles has prevented the emission of nearly 95 million tons of CO2 worldwide. In short, the future of hybrids seems assured. The answers given here show that they are reliable, safe, and powerful vehicles.
 

At Toyota St-Jerome, your Toyota dealer on the North Shore, near Laval and Sainte-Agathe-des-Monts in the Laurentians, we are following the global trend of hybrids. Since Toyota is targeting the milestone of 15 million hybrids sold worldwide by the end of 2020, your dealer in Saint-Jerome wants to do its part. Come and discover our 2019 hybrid vehicles now. You'll leave with the idea of getting on board a reliable and fuel-efficient vehicle. Our representatives are waiting for you to test your next environmental vehicle.