photo by jinxmcc

Not quite yet, but it looks to be on the way.

Reuters is reporting this morning that the next generation Toyota Prius will include a solar panel array on the roof. The solar panels would not be used to power the whole car, but would conrol the air conditioning system.

It’s not a completely solar-powered car, obviously, but it’s important for two reasons:

1) Toyota are the first major auto manufacturer to embrace solar technology

Toyota finds themselves once again at the forefront of new energy technology and leading the way for the car market. This is both good for the company, and good for the industry, since Toyota has proven they have the power to swing consumer interests and pull the industry to their side.

2) Air conditioning isn’t cheap

Anyone who’s been trying to save gas lately knows just how much power and fuel the air conditioning system can use up. While it doesn’t power the car, it’s a huge step to defraying the cost of car travel and energy, and if gas prices keep climbing, it’ll be another big cost-saving advantage that only Toyota is offering.

Check it out!

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