More than 15 years ago, toyotawhich at that time was already considered a pioneer in the field of automotive electrification worldwide, introduced, with the iconic Prius, the first hybrid car to the Peruvian market. Today, it reaffirms its leadership with a proposal that responds to our reality: the self-charging Corolla Cross Hybrid.
A solution designed in Peru
Each country is different. In the middle of the path towards sustainability, Toyota offers different types of alternatives, from plug-in hybrids and 100% electric models, to cars that run on hydrogen cells. Now, in Peru, the lack of charging stations and limited infrastructure are still obstacles for fully electric vehicles, both in Lima and nationally.
However, at Toyota, aware of the reality of the country’s streets, roads and routes, they are committed to self-rechargeable hybrids as the best sustainable and efficient alternative for Peruvians. These vehicles combine an internal combustion engine (the usual one, powered by gasoline) with an electric one, optimizing fuel consumption and reducing emissions.
All this wonder, without depending on plugs or charging points. All you have to do is drive for the battery to recharge automatically, and thus continue sending power to the tires, so you can continue driving. It is a virtuous circle.
The best of all is that Toyota equipped one of its best models with such technology – the most effective in terms of saving in terms of fuel consumption and contributing to the care of the environment today. And the Corolla Cross, already in its classic gas station version, was a tremendous car: excellently equipped, impeccably built, elegantly designed, and dynamically driven. Today, this hybrid version takes a great machine to the next level.
Technology that makes a difference
This SUV is not only efficient, it is also designed to offer comfort and safety. It incorporates advanced systems such as pre-collision and lane change warning, as well as the always useful reversing camera. Inside, you find the world’s most intuitive touchscreen, compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. It is worth emphasizing that pairing your cell phone in the Corolla Cross Hybrid is incredibly easy, something that does not happen in the vast majority of new cars.
In addition, it has a wireless phone charger and push-button ignition, and, as if that were not enough, you can open the trunk just by pressing another of the buttons on the keychain. They are practical details, designed exclusively to make your life easier.
As for the driving experience, the 10-speed Direct Shift CVT transmission ensures performance perfectly adjustable to the driver’s pace. You get a smooth, composed ride if you go slowly, but if necessary, you can trust the car to respond quickly if you step on the accelerator. Likewise, it allows you to choose between ‘Eco’, ‘Normal’ and ‘Power’ driving modes. And, thanks to ‘EV Mode’, the hybrid Corolla Cross is capable of traveling short distances powered solely by its batteries (in 100% electric mode), reducing decibels and CO₂ emissions to zero.
Commitment to the environment
The commitment to hybrids is not just a strategy or commercial direction, it is part of a global commitment to carbon neutrality. Since 2009, the hybrid and natural gas vehicles marketed by Toyota in Peru have contributed, throughout their life cycle, to avoiding more than 969 thousand tons of CO₂ equivalent in the country. This is an immense contribution to the national goal of reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 40% by 2030.
Such effort is reflected in the certification of the fourth star of the Peru Carbon Footprint program, awarded by the Ministry of the Environment, which recognizes the effective reduction of emissions in Toyota’s corporate management. Thus, the brand demonstrates that its commitment to sustainability transcends its sales: it is comprehensive.
A car for real life
Beyond numbers and technology, the Corolla Cross Hybrid is designed to solve real problems. In simple words: you save money on gasoline, you don’t have to worry about recharging the batteries, and you have everything you need to move calmly and comfortably through the city or the roads of Peru. And the best thing is that you don’t sacrifice anything: no space, no performance, no comfort. It is necessary to insist on these ideas, since, in the automotive market, it is not so common for a brand to be able to find harmony between a purpose and commitment to the environment, and the needs of its public.
In a country where traffic, long distances and infrastructure gaps are part of everyday life, this model becomes a practical and reliable solution. Toyota understood what we need in Peru, and the Corolla Cross Hybrid is proof of this.
A step towards the future
Hybrids are the best answer today, while the ground is being prepared for the arrival of 100% electric models in the coming years. With the Corolla Cross Hybrid, Toyota presents an alternative that combines sustainability, efficiency and technology, without complications; And, after all, it is a Toyota. An unmissable offer, which demonstrates a vision that contemplates both the present and the future of mobility in Peru.
*This note was published based on the experience with the Corolla Cross HV 1.8 Premium CVT
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