April 16, 2009 | 47 comments

Slide Show: 10 Things You Should Know about Toyota's New Prius Hybrid

Ten things to look for in the new Prius hybrid sedan

By Steven Ashley

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SYMBOLIC SOLAR

In keeping with the car's ecofriendly theme, the new Prius includes solar power. An optional moonroof incorporates silicon solar cells that power an air-circulation fan/vent that lessens the need for air-conditioning on start-up. Toyota engineers originally studied using the 59-watt solar array to (at least symbolically) recharge the 1,300 watt-hour hybrid battery, but hit an unexpected roadblock. When the solar panel is connected to the battery, the rooftop device acts as an antenna, radiating electrical noise that interferes with nearby radios and mobile phones.

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Slide Show: 10 Things You Should Know About Toyota's New Prius Hybrid

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