The 2017 Toyota Prius plug-in hybrid vehicle (PHV) has been redesigned to offer extra benefits for the owners. The new Prius now offers the optional solar rooftop features and Welcab version.

The new Prius made history for being the first mass-produced passenger car offering an optional solar charging system which is commercially available in the market. The solar rooftop improves hybrid fuel efficiency.

2017 Toyota Prius' rooftop solar panels aim to raise hybrid fuel efficiency. The panels have the capacity to recharge the 3.7-volt (24Ah) lithium-ion auxiliary battery while the vehicle is being driven on the road.

Aside from recharging the battery, the solar panels also provide power to the traction battery of a parked Prius PHV. Toyota claims that the power is enough to drive up to 6.1 kilometers/day maximum, or 2.9 kilometers on the average.

Furthermore, the solar panels are a good source of electricity for the power windows and lights. The air-conditioning system of the 2017 Toyota Prius also depends on the power source from the rooftop solar panels, One Step Off The Grid reported.

Moreover, Toyota has announced the release date for the redesigned Prius with the new Welcab version. This model will now have a special front passenger seat that can rotate and tilt.

This Welcab version is beneficial for persons with disabilities. It will ease the burden on the caregiver too, as the passenger with special needs will be able to easily get in and out of the new model. According to the press release, the redesigned 2017 Toyota Prius with Welcab version is set to be launched in April.

Meanwhile, Takeshi Uchiyamada, chairman of the board of directors at Toyota, discussed how the Prius has successfully transitioned from being an unknown hybrid into the new mainstream. Takeshi Uchiyamada mentioned that people were clueless when they first introduced the Prius. He also added that the first few drivers of Prius were even called "geeks."

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