Toyota to Introduce “Hybrid X” at Geneva Show

[Sledge]

http://www.greencarcongress.co....html

At the upcoming Geneva Motor Show in March, Toyota will introduce a new hybrid concept it is calling “Hybrid X”—a concept car that it says proposes a new design language for hybrid models while also acting as a technology showcase for future hybrid cars.

[philmcneal]

ooo maybe they found the solution to the dreaded cold start problem... maybe electric heaters help speed up the engine coolant temp!

[nash]

Interesting - it sort of looks like a Prius from behind. With any luck it will be a plug in hybrid with an EV range over 40mph

I sometimes wonder if my TCH has an electric heater - I've never owned a car that warms up so fast. A cold (~50 F parked overnight in the garage) engine will be up to normal temp in only a mile, despite my feathering the gas to keep the instant mpg gauge reading 40+ mpg. My first 2 miles are a 40mph limit rural street, with a slight downhill slope.

[akxb]

nash,
I am not sure but I think you might be right. I know my buddy's 1999 toyota camry (solara) warms up very quick as well. In fact he always rubs it in because I get jealous when it's 10 below zero out. Anyway he said it has electric heat to help warm up go faster. I'd imagine Toyota would do the same on later models as well. Anyone else know anything about this?