The next-generation Toyota Prius will share quite a bit of technology with the automaker’s race cars.
According to a report from Automotive News, the Toyota TS040 racecar — which competes in races such as the 24 Hours of Le Mans — is serving as a platform to test technology expected to make its way into the upcoming Prius.
In fact, Toyota Motorsport GmbH president Yoshiaki Kinoshita says the TS040 already uses parts destined for the next Prius. But rather them being mechanical components, the parts themselves are preproduction microchips and microcontrollers.
But rather than crossing a finish line after racing for 24 hours, the Prius’ tech drawn from the TS040 will undoubtedly focus on maximizing fuel efficiency. Kinoshita didn’t specify what additional components we’ll see in the next Prius, but we can expect a 25 per cent increase in fuel economy
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