Toyota have used the notorious Nordschliefe at the Nurburgring to set a unique record with its hybrid Prius Plug-in model.
The 20 minute 59 seconds lap time recorded by the Prius Plug-in model is hardly remarkable, but the fuel economy figure achieved is certainly more eye-catching. To complete the 12.9 mile loop the Prius Plug-in hybrid used less than five tablespoons of fuel, which Toyota have calculated equates to 698mpg, far beyond the cars official combined fuel economy figure of 134mpg.
The test took place with a Toyota Prius Plug-in powered by a factory standard power unit under everyday conditions at the legendary German circuit. The drive was conducted in open traffic during a public session and complying with all circuit rules, including the 60km/h minimum average speed.
Toyota's full hybrid system combines a 1.8-litre petrol engine with a rechargeable lithium-ion battery. The battery enables the car can be driven further and at higher speeds on electric power alone than the standard Prius.
Driver Joe Clifford said: "We used no special tricks for this test. We simply took a fully charged car, fitted it with low rolling resistance tyres and drove the lap, among all the other public drivers taking the opportunity to experience the challenge of the Nürburgring. Although the 12.9-mile distance is similar to a typical commuter trip, the difference here is a rise and fall in elevation of around 1,000 feet. In fact it was only on one long climb that the petrol engine cut in, and then only for a short while. Without that, we think we might have even achieved the ultimate 999.9mpg read-out - the highest figure the display can show.”
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