The Toyota Prius is in the news! And the fact is that this time, expert driver Wayne Gerdes has achieved a new Guinness™ record by recording the lowest fuel consumption on a coast-to-coast trip in the United States. The feat took place during a trip from Los Angeles City Hall to New York City Hall, where Gerdes drove a Prius LE achieving an astonishing average of 93.158 miles per gallon (MPG) combined, beating the previous record of 75 MPG.
Since its launch more than two decades ago, the Prius has established itself as the pioneer in hybrid technology, combining an electric electric motor and a high-efficiency engine to deliver exceptional fuel efficiency. Michael Tripp, Toyota’s vice president of vehicle marketing, commented that “the Prius continues to dazzle us today,” noting how this world record reinforces the Prius’ reputation as an engineering marvel.
The record-breaking Toyota Prius
Wayne Gerdes traversed 3,211.7 miles, facing challenging conditions such as mountainous terrain up to 7,000 feet, the Mojave Desert with temperatures above 105 degrees and strong winds from the Gulf of Mexico. This trip put the Prius’ performance to the test, proving that even under adverse conditions, it can maintain its efficiency.
Since the Prius hit the U.S. market in 2000, Toyota has taken a multi-disciplinary approach to powertrain technology, offering multiple types of hybrid vehicles. This approach demonstrates its commitment to carbon neutrality by providing customers with efficient options.
The latest generation Prius will have a sporty design and improved hybrid technology, with EPA-estimated fuel economy of up to 57 MPG. The fifth-generation hybrid system and a 2.0L engine provide 194 horsepower, further enhancing its performance.
Efficient driving techniques
Gerdes, who uses “hypermiling” techniques to optimize vehicle performance, advises drivers to start more slowly and maintain constant pressure on the accelerator. He also recommends releasing the accelerator early before stopping, allowing the vehicle to glide, which helps save fuel.
This world record adds to the many awards the Prius has received, such as the Car and Driver’s Top 10 and MotorTrend’s MotorTrend Car of the Year.. Although the record achieved by Gerdes requires expert driving, it suggests that any driver can improve their fuel economy with small daily practices.
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Source and photos: Toyota
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