If there’s electricity in the air at the 2016 New York International Auto Show, it’s probably coming from the Toyota display, where the world’s hybrid vehicle leader has unveiled the new Prius Prime, an ultra-efficient model with a plug-in hybrid powertrain. “Prime†means best, making it the perfect name for one of the most technologically advanced, best-equipped Prius in the model’s history.
The Prius Prime’s manufacturer-estimated 120 or above MPGe (miles per gallon equivalent) is expected to be the highest MPGe rating of any Plug-in Hybrid.* It also represents a substantial 26-percent enhancement over its predecessor, a result of greater battery capacity and an improved hybrid system. In hybrid mode, the Prius Prime is targeting a hybrid MPG equal to or better than the Prius liftback.
The 2017 Prius Prime combines an electrifying design with an even more capable electric powertrain than the previous-generation Prius Plug-in Hybrid. The Prius Prime is expected to offer an estimated two times the electric range of the previous model — 22 miles – meeting the daily commuter distance of over half of U.S. drivers, and drive at speeds up to 84 mph without leaving EV mode.
As parsimonious with fuel as the Prius Prime may be, it drives with the same verve as the standard new-generation Prius hybrid, one result of the new high-strength platform and double-wishbone independent rear suspension.
Prius Prime adds even more premium touches and exclusive tech features compared to the all-new Prius hybrid, including its available 11.6-inch, HD central multimedia screen with standard navigation and available full color head-up display. “Prime†also describes the vehicle’s available advanced safety technology, Toyota Safety Sense™ P. This multi-feature advanced active safety suite, bundles the Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection and Automatic Braking; Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist; Full-Speed Dynamic Radar Cruise Control with full stop technology and Automatic High Beams. Blind Spot Monitor and Rear Cross Traffic Alert are also available for additional peace of mind.
All 2017 Prius hybrid models come standard with eight supplemental restraint system airbags, including multi-stage driver and front passenger front airbags; driver and front passenger side airbags; full-length curtain airbags; a driver knee airbag, and a front passenger seat cushion airbag.

If the 2017 Prius Prime looks like the future, it was purely intentional on the designers’ part. The new-generation Prius Prime is 2.4 inches longer, 0.6 inches wider and about an inch lower than its predecessor. The growth boosts cargo room over its predecessor and gives the Prius Prime a road-hugging stance.
The wind-cheating body and its high-strength/low weight structure are critical factors in the Prius Prime’s astoundingly low energy consumption. Its coefficient of drag is expected to be among the lowest for production sedans. Automatic grille shutters help reduce drag by closing when airflow to the radiator is not needed.
Yet the Prius Prime is no aero jellybean. It’s chiseled profile and edgy character lines seem to dare the wind to stand in its way. Energy-conserving quad LED headlights glow like diamonds cutting the night, and LED rear combination lamps leave an unforgettable nighttime signature. Driver visibility remains excellent, aided by a full-width aero glass panel over the rear spoiler and a standard backup camera. The distinctive aero rear window is eye-catching and adds to its slipstream character.
While giving the new-generation Prius models more features, Toyota kept vehicle weight in check by using aluminum for the hood, carbon fiber on the rear hatch, and by using high-tensile strength steel in other parts of the structure. In fact, the lightweight carbon fiber rear hatch makes opening and closing almost effortless.
EV or Hybrid? Both.
The Prius Prime will please anyone who wants to reduce trips to the gas pump, and it would make a great road trip car, too. The Prius Prime will allow drivers to stay in EV mode in more situations, helping to enhance vehicle range on one tank of fuel. You can plug it in, gas it up, or both. On one 11.3-gallon tank of regular-grade gasoline and a full electric charge, the 2017 Prius Prime anticipates a class-leading estimated total driving range of over 600 miles (Toyota recommends making occasional stops to refuel and recharge yourself and passengers).

Both the standard Prius hybrid and the Prius Prime are powered by Toyota’s Hybrid Synergy Drive powertrain, which seamlessly combines the output of the gasoline engine and electric motor through a planetary-type continuously variable transmission. The biggest difference is that the Prius Prime can be plugged in at home to recharge its larger 8.8kWh battery pack.
In Hybrid mode, the Prius Prime can run on the gasoline engine or electric motor alone or a combination of both. Even when not running in EV mode, the Prius Prime will automatically rely more on its electric capability in situations where it is more efficient than running the gasoline engine, especially in urban and suburban driving and during shorter trips.
The Prius Prime will also feature a Toyota-first dual motor generator drive system, using both the electric motor and the generator for drive force, helping to boost acceleration performance. Regenerative braking recaptures electrical energy under deceleration and braking and stores it in the battery, which helps to reduce fuel consumption.
Even better, there’s no special equipment for home charging. Just use the supplied cord and the Prius Prime takes approximately 5.5 hours using a standard household outlet. Charging takes less than half the time with a 240V source.
Not to be overshadowed by all the electrical magic, the Prius Prime’s gasoline engine also plays a starring role in that efficiency. The 1.8-liter Atkinson-cycle, 4-cylinder engine – the same as in all 2016 Prius hybrid models – earns a groundbreaking 40 percent-plus thermal efficiency. Most modern automobile engines reach about 25-30 percent. Myriad details throughout the hybrid powertrain contribute to the efficiency, including an exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) system with a cooler, smaller, lighter, quieter hybrid system water pump and an exhaust heat recirculation system that speeds engine warm-up.

The Prius Prime looks and feels far from frugal on the inside, where a four-seat cabin layout, with center console running front to back, looks more like a high-end luxury coupe. Practicality remains ever present, however, with standard 60/40 folding rear seatbacks. It’s a quiet cabin, too, thanks to the sound-insulating laminated windshield and front door glass and the optimized aero shape that helps keep wind noise where it belongs – outside.
The Prius Prime coddles the driver and passengers with standard heated front seats, an automatic climate control system, and available SofTex® synthetic leather trimmed seats. The climate control system is quieter, thanks to an electric compressor, and it’s smarter, focusing airflow only to areas where occupants are seated in order to help maximize fuel economy and comfort. The climate control system can also operate without the engine on, with a heat pump that allows the system to cool or heat the cabin while driving in EV mode. The driver can activate the remote air conditioning system with an available key fob or smartphone app to cool the interior before entering the cabin.
The centrally mounted gauge panel, a Prius hallmark since the model’s inception, appears to float above the dashboard. The panel features dual 4.2-inch full-color TFT (thin film transistor) multi-information displays, and the driver can change their content by using steering wheel controls.
The display provides a multitude of readouts for hybrid energy information and more, and the driver can choose how much information to view. Want to cut the cord? With available wireless cell phone charging for Qi-compatible devices, just place your Qi-compatible devices on the console pad to charge it wirelessly.
Sound and vision inside the Prius Prime likewise meet the standard of “prime.†Toyota equipped this top Prius with its top Entune® multimedia system and made it all accessible through a new and exclusive 11.6-inch HD tablet display. The navigation graphics look simply stunning, and intuitive touch controls make operation a snap.
Prius Prime will also offer an exclusive suite of Prius Prime Apps, allowing you to remotely manage your vehicle’s charging schedule and status, locate charging stations, track and compare your eco driving score with others on social media, remotely control the vehicle’s climate system, and more – all from your smartphone. It’s advanced eco at your fingertips.
An available Entune™ Premium JBL® Audio system with Integrated Navigation and App Suite puts 10 JBL GreenEdge™ speakers in six locations for sonic bliss. The Entune™ Multimedia Bundle includes AM/FM cache radio (letting you pause songs and play later), HD Radio™, HD Radio™ predictive traffic and Doppler weather overlay, SiriusXM® Satellite Radio with 3-month complimentary SiriusXM All Access trial and Gracenote® album cover art.
Of course there’s a USB 2.0 port with iPod® connectivity and control, plus advanced voice recognition and hands-free phone capability, phonebook access and music streaming via Bluetooth®. For iPhone users, Siri® Eyes Free mode adds yet another in-car assistant.
The Entune™ App Suite adds yet more music sources, including Slacker Radio, iHeartRadio and Pandora® as well as Destination Search, MovieTickets.com, OpenTable®, Facebook Places, Yelp™ plus real-time traffic, weather, fuel prices, sports and stocks. Access to Entune® services is subscription-free.
In the urban jungle, where hunting for a prime parking space is a sport, the Prius Prime wins. Available Intelligent Parking Assist (IPA) uses ultrasonic wave sensors to size up a parallel parking space and then, when activated by the driver, can steer the car into it. The system can also reverse the Prius Prime into perpendicular spaces and automatically steer it out of a parallel space.
When the way forward gets narrow, such as in a parking garage, the system’s Intelligent Clearance Sonar provides visible and audible warnings if the driver gets too close to obstacles on the vehicle’s sides.
The 2017 Prius Prime will begin arriving in Toyota showrooms in late fall.
INTELLIGENT MOBILITY
8.3L Duramax Mongoose: GM Teases New HD Diesel
GM has officially teased its new 8.3L Duramax Turbo-Diesel V8, which will power the refreshed 2027 Chevrolet Silverado HD and GMC Sierra HD in the U.S.
GM gives its new diesel a predator-inspired name
General Motors has given its next heavy-duty diesel pickup program a dramatic first look. The company has teased the all-new 8.3L Duramax Turbo-Diesel V8, which will become the heart of the refreshed 2027 Chevrolet Silverado HD and GMC Sierra HD.
GM published the teaser on September 21, 2026, confirming the engine’s displacement and its planned application in the two heavy-duty pickups. The automaker is not releasing horsepower, torque or towing figures yet.

GM’s official teaser introduces the new “Mongoose” name for its upcoming Duramax diesel.
The new engine has been given the nickname Mongoose. GM is using the name to create a direct connection with the heavy-duty diesel competition.
The automaker specifically references a rival HD V8 diesel known as the “Scorpion.” GM’s message is clear: the new diesel is designed to compete in one of the most demanding areas of the pickup market.
For now, though, the teaser is deliberately limited. GM says this is only a first look and that Chevrolet and GMC will reveal more information soon.
That means the biggest questions remain unanswered. Buyers still need to know the engine’s horsepower, torque, towing capacity, fuel economy and availability by trim.
A new era for Silverado HD and Sierra HD
The 8.3L Duramax will arrive with refreshed versions of the 2027 Silverado HD and 2027 Sierra HD. That places the new diesel at the center of GM’s heavy-duty truck strategy for the U.S. market.

The Silverado HD is one of the two GM heavy-duty pickups set to receive the new diesel.
The Silverado HD and Sierra HD are built for customers who need serious towing and hauling capability. Their diesel engines are especially important for buyers who regularly pull large trailers or carry heavy loads.
GM has not yet explained how the 8.3-liter engine will affect the trucks’ existing chassis and towing systems. However, the larger displacement points to a major change under the hood.
The current Chevrolet and GMC heavy-duty lineup uses a 6.6-liter Duramax V8 diesel. GMC’s current HD diesel is rated at 470 horsepower and 975 lb-ft of torque, while the 2027 engine shown in today’s teaser will use a significantly larger 8.3-liter displacement.
It is important to separate those figures from the new engine. GM has not yet published official output numbers for the 8.3L Mongoose.
That makes any current horsepower or torque estimates speculative. The confirmed information is limited to the engine’s displacement, turbo-diesel V8 layout and application in the refreshed 2027 HD pickups.
The Mongoose could reshape the diesel pickup battle
The new diesel arrives during an especially competitive period for American heavy-duty trucks. Ford, Chevrolet, GMC and Ram continue to compete heavily on towing, payload, torque and long-distance capability.
GM’s decision to move to an 8.3-liter diesel V8 suggests that conventional diesel power remains an important part of its strategy for customers who prioritize maximum truck capability.

The GMC Sierra HD will also receive the new Duramax 8.3L Turbo-Diesel V8.
The Sierra HD will share the new powertrain with the Silverado HD. That means the Mongoose will serve both Chevrolet and GMC buyers, while each brand continues to give its trucks a different design and market identity.
There is also an important timing element. GM has already revealed extensive updates for its 2027 light-duty Silverado 1500 and Sierra 1500 range, including new gasoline V8 engines and an updated 3.0-liter Duramax diesel. The 8.3L Mongoose is a separate development for the heavy-duty trucks.
GM is therefore expanding its powertrain strategy across multiple truck segments. The company is retaining diesel technology while introducing new engines across its gasoline and diesel lineups.
For now, the 8.3L Duramax Mongoose remains partially hidden. GM has confirmed the engine and the 2027 Silverado HD and Sierra HD applications, but the most important performance specifications are still to come.
The 2027 Chevrolet Silverado HD and GMC Sierra HD will bring GM’s new 8.3L Duramax Turbo-Diesel V8 to the U.S. heavy-duty pickup market, marking a major new chapter for the company’s diesel strategy.
INTELLIGENT MOBILITY
Tesla Cybercab Navigation Problem Hits Austin Robotaxis
Tesla’s Cybercab is already facing navigation complaints in Austin, where one reported 10-minute trip turned into a 70-minute ride because of route restrictions and detours.
Tesla Cybercab faces a navigation problem in Austin
The Tesla Cybercab is now operating as part of Tesla’s Robotaxi service in Austin, Texas. However, some early riders are reporting an issue that Tesla owners already know well: unexpected navigation choices.
Tesla’s autonomous service is still limited in Austin. The company says Cybercab rides are currently available in limited areas of the city, while Robotaxi services also operate in several other U.S. markets.
The latest complaint involves a rider who expected a trip of roughly 10 minutes. Instead, the Cybercab reportedly took a long route through Austin and turned the journey into a 70-minute ride.

The Tesla Cybercab is currently operating in limited areas of Austin as part of the Robotaxi service.
The trip reportedly began near 99 Ranch Market and was heading toward The Domain. Instead of taking the most direct route, the Cybercab traveled south and continued through surface streets.
That difference can be significant in Austin. The city relies heavily on major highways for longer trips. A route that avoids those roads can become much longer.
Current reports indicate that Tesla’s Robotaxi operation has been avoiding highway travel during its early Austin deployment. The company, however, describes Cybercab as a vehicle designed to handle city streets, highways and complex intersections.
This creates an important distinction. The vehicle may be technically designed for highways, but the current operating area and operational restrictions can still limit which roads it actually uses.
Railroad crossings could make routes even longer
Highways may not be the only factor. Austin also has several railroad crossings that can complicate autonomous routing.
Some riders have suggested that avoiding certain at-grade railroad crossings could force Robotaxis to travel farther before finding a suitable crossing point. That possibility has not been confirmed by Tesla.
Still, the combination of road restrictions and railway crossings could explain why a relatively simple trip became so complicated.
The rider also reported that the Robotaxi app did not provide a clear estimated travel time before the trip began. Tesla’s current service is therefore placing extra importance on how its vehicles calculate routes once the ride has started.

The driverless Cybercab operates without a conventional steering wheel or pedals.
There have been other reports of unusual routing. Another passenger reportedly found that the Cybercab stopped at a business next to the requested destination rather than directly at the intended location.
That does not necessarily mean the same problem affects every ride. There is still limited public data about how frequently these incidents occur across the entire Robotaxi fleet.
However, the reports show how different autonomous navigation can be from conventional navigation.
A human driver can recognize that a route looks inefficient. They can also make a quick change, turn around or choose a different road. A fully autonomous vehicle must operate within the rules and boundaries programmed into its service.
Tesla’s navigation history adds another layer
Navigation complaints are not entirely new for Tesla. Owners have discussed routing errors and unexpected directions for years.
In a conventional Tesla, those mistakes can be frustrating but relatively easy to correct. The driver can simply ignore the route and choose another road.
That option changes when there is no driver behind the wheel.
The Cybercab is designed as a fully autonomous vehicle. Tesla’s official documentation describes it as a two-seat vehicle without a steering wheel or pedals, using cameras and sensors to navigate its environment.
That makes navigation accuracy much more important.
If a route is inefficient, the passenger cannot simply take control. Instead, the rider has to remain inside the vehicle or end the ride and find another way to reach the destination.

The Cybercab is Tesla’s purpose-built autonomous taxi, designed for fully driverless operation.
Tesla is also taking a gradual approach to its Robotaxi expansion. The company began offering employee rides before launching wider autonomous service and has continued expanding its operating areas step by step.
The limited operating environment is important because autonomous vehicles normally begin with a defined operational design domain. That can include restrictions involving geography, road types, traffic conditions and other factors.
As those boundaries expand, some of today’s routing problems could become less common.
For now, though, Austin provides an early look at one of the practical challenges facing Tesla’s autonomous strategy. The issue is not necessarily the Cybercab’s ability to move through traffic. Instead, it can be the route chosen before and during the journey.
Tesla’s Robotaxi service is already operating in the U.S. market, with Austin serving as one of its key early locations. The Cybercab itself is currently available only in limited areas of Austin, making the city an important testing ground for Tesla’s driverless transportation plans.
For passengers, the biggest question is simple: how quickly can Tesla improve route selection while keeping its strict autonomous operating limits? The answer could have a major impact on how useful the Cybercab becomes for everyday trips.
INTELLIGENT MOBILITY
2027 Nissan Rogue Hybrid: e-POWER Comes to America
The 2027 Nissan Rogue Hybrid brings e-POWER to the U.S. with 225 hp, standard dual-motor AWD, up to 40 mpg city and a major technology upgrade.
Nissan brings e-POWER to the U.S.
The 2027 Nissan Rogue Hybrid marks an important change for Nissan in America. It introduces the company’s e-POWER hybrid system to the U.S. market for the first time.
The technology has already been used globally for years. Nissan says nearly 2 million e-POWER vehicles have been sold in 68 countries since 2016.
The new Rogue Hybrid uses the third generation of that system. It combines a gasoline engine with electric motors that drive the wheels.
There is no traditional transmission connecting the engine directly to the wheels. Instead, the engine works mainly as a generator for the battery and electric motors.
That creates a different hybrid experience. Nissan says the system delivers quick acceleration, smooth power and quieter operation.

The first Rogue Hybrid will reach U.S. dealers in late fall 2026. Nissan will initially launch the SR with Technology Package in limited quantities.
Other trims will follow in early 2027.
The lineup will include SV, SR and Platinum versions. Pricing starts at $35,490 for the SV, while the SR with Technology Package starts at $41,490. The Platinum starts at $43,490.
Every version uses dual-motor all-wheel drive.
That is a major part of the Rogue Hybrid’s identity. Nissan does not offer a front-wheel-drive version of this hybrid.
The two electric motors constantly adjust torque between the front and rear axles. The system can also apply light braking to the inside wheels to improve cornering control.
The hybrid system makes 225 horsepower
Under the hood, the Rogue Hybrid uses a 1.5-liter turbocharged gasoline engine. Its main role is to generate electricity for the hybrid system.
The engine can shut off when the battery has enough energy.
The complete system produces 225 horsepower. Nissan estimates fuel economy of up to 40 mpg city, 36 mpg highway and 38 mpg combined for the appropriate SR AWD configuration.
The system also reaches 42 percent thermal efficiency, according to Nissan’s internal testing.

The Rogue Hybrid also introduces two braking technologies.
The first is e-Pedal, which allows the driver to slow the vehicle by lifting off the accelerator. The system can bring the SUV to a complete stop in many situations.
The second is Smooth Stop.
This technology automatically adjusts brake pressure near the end of a stop. Nissan says the system can reduce head movement and create a smoother stop in traffic.
The goal is simple. Make everyday driving feel more natural.
Nissan has also focused on cabin refinement.
The Rogue Hybrid uses acoustic-laminated glass, improved door sealing and aerodynamic mirror designs to reduce outside noise.
The seats have also been redesigned. For the first time in the Rogue, climate-controlled front seats are available.
The cabin gets a major technology upgrade
The 2027 Nissan Rogue Hybrid receives a large amount of new technology.
A 12.3-inch touchscreen is standard. Wireless Apple CarPlay and wireless Android Auto are also included.
Higher versions can receive a 14.3-inch display with Google built-in. That system includes Google Maps, the Play Store and Google Gemini.
The Platinum version also adds a 10-speaker Bose Premium Audio system.
Nissan has also made wireless charging easier.
Every Rogue grade gets the company’s new 15-watt Qi2 magnetic wireless charger. The Platinum version can add a second wireless charger.

Driver assistance is another major part of the new Rogue Hybrid.
The latest ProPILOT Assist system uses a new front radar sensor and a front camera with a 20 percent wider field of view.
Nissan also revised the software to make the system work more naturally.
Intelligent Cruise Control now offers four following-distance settings instead of three. Low-speed operation improves down to 12 mph, while low-speed acceleration is 11 percent quicker.
The system can also detect slowing or stopped vehicles 33 percent sooner than before.
Available features include Auto Lane Change and Hands-off Traffic Jam Support.
The Rogue Hybrid can also use the available 3D HD Enhanced Intelligent Around View Monitor. It creates a virtual view around the vehicle to help with parking and tight manoeuvres.
The Rogue gets bigger and more practical
Nissan has also redesigned the Rogue’s cabin around daily usability.
The SUV offers seating for five people and up to 39 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats upright. Five LATCH anchor positions also give families more flexibility when installing child seats.
The rear doors open to nearly 90 degrees.
That makes it easier to load passengers and child seats.
Nissan has also expanded storage solutions inside the cabin. The centre-console storage area now has a wider opening.
The design follows Nissan’s new “Refined and Tough” theme. The exterior combines sharp surfaces with a wider stance and a geometric front fascia.
The front end uses a honeycomb grille with integrated LED headlights. A full-width LED rear light is also available.
The Rogue Hybrid will be offered in eight exterior colours, along with five two-tone combinations featuring a black roof. Three colours are new: Horizon Blue Pearl Metallic, Alpine Metallic and Aurora Dune Pearl.
The 2027 Nissan Rogue Hybrid will arrive in the U.S. later this year. The SR with Technology Package will lead the launch, with additional trims following in early 2027.
With 225 horsepower, standard dual-motor AWD, e-Pedal and advanced ProPILOT Assist technology, Nissan is giving the Rogue a much broader hybrid role.
The biggest change is e-POWER, which brings a gasoline-powered generator together with electric motors to create a hybrid system designed around smooth and immediate response.
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