Toyota Ireland is again partnering with UCD to gain further insights into the real life usage of Prius Plug-in Hybrids on Irish roads prior to the introduction of the vehicle later this year.

Since last year, three Prius Plug-in Hybrid vehicles have been on Irish roads as part of a global trial programme, and much valuable feedback and suggestions have been received which have assisted in shaping the final version of the Prius Plug-in Hybrid.

Commenting on the renewal of the partnership, Dr William Smith of UCD said: “UCD is proud to partner with Toyota Ireland once again, and to have assisted in the evaluation of this state-of-the-art vehicle technology many months ahead of its official release. The “plug-in hybrid” architecture incorporated in this version of the Prius, potentially offers many of the benefits of battery-powered vehicles, whilst eliminating all concerns over travelling range. UCD School of Mechanical & Materials Engineering has a strong record of successful research related to engines, powertrains, and vehicles, that stretches back over forty years. The current collaboration with Toyota Ireland builds on that record, and reflects the global shift towards increased electrification of passenger car propulsion systems.”

Commenting on the news, Ian Corbett, Marketing Operations Manager of Toyota Ireland said: “We’re delighted to once again partner with UCD to gain further real world data and driver feedback prior to the introduction of the Prius Plug-in Hybrid into the Irish market. The trials we have carried out to date, not only with UCD but with other leading companies such as Google, Vodafone, RTE, An Post and Bank of Ireland, have been invaluable in aiding the development of Prius Plug-in over the last 18 months."