The Toyota Prius the world’s leading hybrid brand is finally coming to Bermuda. The brand new Prius c is expected to arrive in Bermuda Motors showroom in early June.The 1.5 liter, 5-door hatchback will be the first hybrid car to go on general sale in Bermuda.As Michael Butler, general manager of Bermuda Motors explained: “We have wanted to bring in a Prius for a long time but previous models have either been too big or two expensive. Now Toyota have put the technology into an economy car that’s perfect for Bermuda, especially as consumers are becoming more concerned about energy efficiency.”Toyota’s Hybrid Synergy Drive technology which combines gas and electric power was first developed 1998, since when more than two million Prius cars have been sold worldwide. Hybrid cars run on regular gas but switch to an electric motor at slower speeds.The Prius c (the “c” stands for “city” according to Toyota) uses a smaller, lighter version of the hybrid system that generates its own battery power and does not need to be plugged in. Two electric motors work and a regular four-cylinder engine work together to create various gear ratios that enable the car to use gas only, pure electric power (EV) or Eco mode, a combination of the two.Mr Butler said Bermuda’s low speed limits and small distances mean local drivers will be able to get maximum benefits from the car’s energy efficiency features in all modesAccording to Toyota: “Eco mode reduces overall energy consumption by governing climate control and throttle to improve vehicle efficiency. Under certain conditions, the EV mode allows the Prius c to be driven solely by electric power for a short distance (under 1 mile) while remaining below 25 mph.”With an expected sticker price of around $39,500, the Prius c will be among the higher-priced Class E cars on the market, but with Toyota claiming fuel consumption of 53mpg in urban conditions, the long-term savings on fuel and maintenance will be significant.For more details, call Bermuda Motors on 292-0893 or visit: www.toyota.com/upcoming-vehicles/priusc/