Primary power comes from a 1.5 liter gas engine, which produces 58 horsepower in the Japanese version (75 lb-ft of torque). It has variable valve timing. The American version has more power. The engine can only rev to 4,000 rpm, so that the internal parts can be smaller and lighter, and to reduce friction loss.
The electric motor is a permanent-magnet design that requires no maintenance as its no-touch internal componentry never wears. It produces its maximum power of 30 kilowatts (40 horsepower) from 940-2,000 rpm, and maximum torque of 31.1 kg-m (225 lb./ft.) from 0-940 rpm.
Length: 168.3 in.
Width: 66.7 in.
Height: 58.7 in.
Wheelbase: 100.4 in.
Weight 2,728 lb.
Seating Capacity: 5
Gasoline Engine: Inline 4-cylinder DOHC, 1,496 cc.
Compression Ratio: 13.5:1 - (HP): 58/4,000 rpm - (Torque): 75 lb./ft./4,000 rpm
Fuel Tank Cap.: 13.2 Gal.
Electric Motor: Permanent Magnet
Max. Power: 30kW/40 horsepower (940-2,000 rpm)
Max. Torque: 31.1 kg-m/225 lb./ft. (0-940 rpm)
Braking: Front Disc/Rear Drum (Hydraulic, with Power Assist) with Integrated Regenerative System
Steering: Rack and Pinion
Suspension: F: Independent MacPherson Strut R: H-beam
Battery: 40 7.2-Volt Sealed Nickel-Metal Hydride - 6.5 Ah/3 HR capacity
Bill Powell noted: The 1998 Japan home model used round cells, and had a known problem with charging and supplying power: one of the reasons for the switch to prismatic. The prismatic "upgrade" involves a new HV battery pack and associated ECU as well as a replacement hybrid system ECU. It is NOT plug-and-play by any means. Those poor sods that have decided to use Japanese Prius elsewhere are in deep doo-doo since they will find NO support and minimal hope of ordering parts even if there is an in-country Toyota establishment
