Technology for Better Miles Per Gallon

"The RX 400h with Hybrid Synergy Drive has a V-6 engine with the power and torque of a V-8 and delivers the fuel mileage of a compact car, while producing a fraction of the emissions of standard SUVs," says Toyota Motor Corporation president Fujio Cho.

Like the Prius, power is delivered to the wheels by a continuously variable transmission and accessories like power-steering assist are electric, so there's no interruption when the gasoline engine shuts down.

The Lexus RX 400h is due out later this year as an early 2005 model. A hybrid version of the Toyota Highlander will be out in 2005, according to Toyota. Pricing for both vehicles hasn't been released.

Since its launch in the Japan market in December 1997, Toyota has sold over 180,000 Prius worldwide. More than 28,000 have been sold worldwide in the first quarter of 2004 alone. With the launch of the Highlander Hybrid, Toyota will become the first brand to offer hybrid technology in a passenger car and an SUV.