The next Prius?

Are we looking at the shape of the next-generation Prius? It's a little hard to say, and if you're wondering why that is, then let us show you a brief passage from the press release regarding this, the Toyota Hybrid X concept:

"Hybrid X follows the core values of the Toyota brand design philosophy under two consistent themes: J-Factor and Vibrant Clarity. J-Factor refers to the local and global acceptance of Japanese-inspired design and cultural form, while Vibrant Clarity is the design language used to express the J-Factor. Through Vibrant Clarity, designers will infuse future vehicles with a completely original identity and emotional intensity that will be uniquely identifiable as coming from Toyota."

Right. That either means "Yes, this is the shape of the next Prius, but we don't want to come right out and say it yet." Or, it means "Don't be ridiculous. You think people would really by a car that looks a space-age as this?"

Clear as mud then, but the Hybrid X does offer up some interesting pointers for future Toyotas. First off, it uses drive-by-wire steering, which does away with a conventional steering column and instead controls the front wheel electronically. There are legislative barriers ahead of such a system at the moment, but if they were surmounted, steer-by-wire could have massive benefits for economy, crash protection and interior space, not to mention making swapping from left- to right-hand-drive easier.

It also uses lightweight, foam-injected rear seats that can be swivelled through 12-degrees so that rear passengers can either have a better view out through the windows, or face into each other for an in-depth conversation. Wouldn't be at all surprised to see that on a future Toyota MPV.

Unfortunately, given the recent rumblings over CO2 emissions, there's no word on whether the Hybrid X uses a lighter, more efficient Hybrid Synergy Drive.