Hybrid Technology

Toyota has been committed to environmental conservation since the 1960s. In 1992, Toyota established the Toyota Earth Charter, and in 2015, they formulated the Toyota Environmental Challenge 2050. This initiative aims to reduce CO2 emissions and achieve global carbon neutrality by 2050 for our vehicles and operations. At TGS, our commitment runs through our Hybrid vehicles, other products and services providing sustainable solutions for all our clients.

Importance of Hybrid Technology

Hybrid vehicles offer significant environmental and economic benefits, making them a crucial step towards sustainable transportation. Toyota began developing hybrid electric vehicles in the mid-1990s under the leadership of Takeshi Uchiyamada, aiming to create a car for the 21st century that would reduce emissions of CO2 and other pollutants.

Explanation of Hybrid Technology

Toyota Hybrid combines an efficient petrol engine with one or more electric motors and a hybrid battery. The system intelligently switches between electric drive, engine drive, or a combination of both to optimise performance and efficiency.

How it works

At lower speeds or light loads, the vehicle can run on electric power alone. Under higher demand, the petrol engine and electric motor work together. When coasting or braking, energy that would otherwise be lost is recovered and stored in the hybrid battery.

Components involved

  • Electric motor
  • Hybrid battery
  • Internal combustion engine
  • Power control unit and generator
  • Transmission (e-CVT in most Toyota Hybrids)

Advantages over conventional engines

  • Lower tailpipe emissions and fuel consumption
  • Smoother, quieter city driving with EV capability
  • Regenerative braking captures energy normally wasted
  • No need to plug in — self-charging as you drive

TGS Hybrid Vehicles

Our hybrid lineup focuses on versatile, efficient SUVs that suit both urban and inter-urban journeys for aid and humanitarian operations.

Corolla Cross Hybrid

A versatile and reliable crossover designed for sustainability, durability and efficiency. Powered by a 1.8L petrol hybrid with CVT, it delivers exceptional fuel efficiency and a seamless drive, with a spacious interior for people and luggage.

Explore Corolla Cross Hybrid

RAV4 Hybrid

A self-charging hybrid SUV that blends strong torque with reduced emissions. Adaptable for rural paths and urban environments alike, aligning with TGS sustainability goals to cut operational emissions.

Explore RAV4 Hybrid

Benefits of TGS Hybrid Vehicles

  • No need to plug in — Toyota hybrids are self-charging. Generate power as you drive.
  • Drive like you always have — Seamless switching between electric and hybrid power.
  • Efficient power — Refuel with petrol as normal; the hybrid battery charges when braking or coasting.

Environmental benefits

  • Reduced emissions
  • Lower carbon footprint

Economic benefits

  • Fuel savings
  • Maintenance cost reduction

Performance benefits

  • Enhanced driving experience
  • Reliability and durability

Maintenance of Hybrid Vehicles

Regular maintenance tips

  • Follow the Toyota service schedule and use genuine parts and fluids.
  • Keep hybrid cooling intakes and filters clean and unobstructed.
  • Ensure 12V auxiliary battery health for reliable starts and system operation.

Hybrid vs conventional maintenance

  • Brake wear can be lower thanks to regenerative braking.
  • No clutch wear on e-CVT hybrids and fewer components under strain in city use.

Cost and long-term savings

  • Lower fuel costs and potentially reduced wear on brakes and transmission components.
  • Consult your owner’s manual and TGS After Sales for model-specific guidance.

Battery Charging

How hybrid batteries are charged

Toyota Hybrids are self-charging. The engine and generator charge the battery during driving, and energy is recovered when you decelerate.

Regenerative braking

When you brake or take your foot off the accelerator, Toyota Hybrid cars use a clever system called ‘regenerative braking’. As the car no longer needs to apply power to the wheels it allows the spinning wheels to power the vehicle’s generator, which produces electricity and stores it in the battery for later use.

Tips for maximising battery life

  • Moderate Speed on Highways: Maintain a moderate speed on highways to minimize stress on the battery.
  • Regenerative Braking: Brake gently where possible to help recharge the battery.
  • Avoid Frequent Short Trips: Very short trips can prevent the system from warming up fully.