Repair methods information provider AIC Ezi-Methods has issued another useful bulletin on new vehicle technology and its impact on accident repair. The latest information covers the Toyota Prius 4, due on our roads in late 2015 and early 2016. The technical bulletin is now available on www.autoindustryinsider.com

AIC Ezi-Methods Engineering Director Andrew Marsh commented, “The fourth generation of Prius owes very little to the previous vehicle and uses a brand new platform, Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA). This is big, big news. This platform will appear under most of the Toyota range over the coming years so now is the time to start understanding.”

Andrew adds, “Prius 4 challenges what we know in a big way. Laser Screw Welding is just one example. This gives a good insight into how Auris, Avensis, RAV-4 and more will look in the short term.”

Andrew explains that the latest version of the hybrid now has the option of four wheel drive. He also points out that the new body has a challenging range of materials which features a complex mix of 1500 MPa alloy steel as well as 980 MPa alloy steel and also aluminium alloy. Because of this AIC Ezi-Methods predicts major repair challenges for anybody tackling the repair process without up to date information.

The electrical equipment on the new Prius is comprehensive, ranging from electric seat heating, electric steering wheel heating, bi-LED headlights, forward facing RADAR, CMOS camera in the windscreen and light clusters that extend deep into both the front as well as rear bumpers. The breakdown of information in these areas is imperative for effective repairs.

Andrew Marsh says, “The high voltage system appears at face value to be very similar to previous models. This is a big mistake. Crucially the low voltage, as well as the high voltage, batteries have moved. That means repairing the Prius 4 for all sorts of reasons should not be approached the same way as Prius 2 or Prius 3.”

Andrew concludes that in a fast moving technological world, it has never been more important to get a summary on new vehicle arrivals before they arrive and to be ready for repair, something that AIC Ezi-Methods clients value and are well placed to do.

For more information visit www.autoindustryinsider.com and www.ezimethods.com