Could the Prius be Toyota's Next Brand?
 

in Japan in 1997, two years before Honda brought its quirky two-seat Insight to market, and provided a stepping stone for Toyota to develop its current Hybrid Synergy Drive technology. It might be true that other manufacturers build hybrid vehicles, but none seem to get the recognition and the attention that Toyota's futuristic hybrid continues to garner. Stars of the film and music industry are often seen arriving to gala events in their Prius', while a growing number of politicians and dignitaries have made the Prius their own. And it's not just like this in North America. This car has received accolades around the world, winning European Car of the Year when it first debuted.

The Prius has also sold reasonably well, since its hybrid drivetrain allows it to qualify for tax rebates. Some cities have even allowed Prius drivers to park their cars on city streets for free. Of course, there's also the fact that the Prius is cheap to run; its tiny gasoline engine and electrical assistance means that it's one of the thriftiest gasoline-powered five-seaters on the market.

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