Solar Roof Illuminates Prius Cabin

Although tried and sometimes abandoned in the past by other auto makers, Toyota Motor Corp. is choosing to include an optional moonroof with solar panels on the '10 Prius.

“I think it's the combination of (providing) a function, but also a ‘wow’ feature,” Toyota Motor Sales U.S.A. Inc. President Jim Lentz tells Ward's.

Mazda Motor Corp. offered solar panels on its 929 model in the early 1990s, while Audi AG currently offers the option on its A8 flagship sedan.

“If you look at why people buy the Prius today, obviously mileage is important (and) what it does for the environment is important,” Lentz says. “But a lot of people buy this car based on the technology.”

Toyota says the moonroof's solar panels power a fan that lowers the Prius' interior temperature when the car is parked as much as 30° F.

In the summertime, the temperature inside a vehicle can reach nearly 200° F (93° C).

“So this allows your car to be pre-cooled down by venting out the excess heat,” Lentz says. “When you turn the air conditioner on, you get to a more comfortable ambient temperature much quicker.”

TMSUSA spokesman Mike Michels says it is important to note the air conditioning is powered by the propulsion batteries. “So anytime you can (reduce) what they call ‘hotel loads,’ which is sort of the housekeeping (non-powertrain) functions, you're going to increase the fuel economy.”

Pricing for the solar roof will be determined about 30 days prior to the late-spring launch of the new Prius, Lentz says, adding he expects the feature to be included in a variety of option packages.

Michels notes a moonroof without solar panels also will be available.

The '10 Prius is one of 10 HEVs, along with the upcoming Lexus HS 250h, which Toyota plans to launch worldwide by early next decade. The 10 include a mixture of new and next-generation hybrids, but Lentz declines to disclose the ratio.

In the U.S., Toyota currently offers the dedicated Prius and HEV versions of some of its best-selling models, such as the Camry midsize sedan and Highlander cross/utility vehicle.

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