Electrified Vehicles

At Salmon Arm Toyota, we take pride in offering a diverse selection of Toyota electric vehicles to suit every lifestyle and budget. Whether you’re looking for the efficiency of a hybrid or the zero-emission power of a pure electric vehicle, Salmon Arm Toyota has the perfect option for you!

Toyota’s range of electrified vehicles includes everything from compact sedans to full-sized pickups, all designed to enhance and support your lifestyle. Utilizing innovative technologies that have been a hallmark of the brand since 1997, here are the four types of Toyota electric vehicles:

In 1997, Toyota introduced the world to hybrids with the launch of the first Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV), the Prius. HEVs do not need to be plugged in; they are powered by Toyota’s revolutionary Hybrid Synergy Drive, which can operate in electric mode only, gas mode only, or a seamless combination of both. Toyota HEVs utilize a technology called “regenerative braking,” which helps recharge the battery every time you decelerate, effectively recycling energy for later use. This system provides an ideal mix of mechanical and electrical power for smooth, seamless acceleration while maximizing fuel efficiency and minimizing harmful emissions. Their powertrains are up to 70% cleaner than conventional gas engines and diesels. Some of Toyota’s most popular HEVs include the RAV4 Hybrid, Camry Hybrid, Corolla Cross Hybrid, and, of course, the Prius.

In 2012, Toyota developed and released the Prius Plug-in, a Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV). PHEVs offer all the benefits of Hybrid Electric Vehicles (HEVs) with the added advantage of an extended CO2 emissions-free electric-only driving range. With a larger battery and more powerful motor, PHEVs can travel further in EV-mode compared to conventional HEVs. Like HEVs, PHEV batteries recharge through regenerative braking, but they also offer the option to plug in to extend the electric-only driving range. PHEVs can travel faster and further in EV-mode than traditional hybrid electric vehicles and currently qualify for federal and provincial government rebates (For qualifying transactions that meet Government of Canada iZEV Program eligibility criteria¹). Prius Prime and RAV4 Prime are two of Toyota’s PHEV’s.

In 2022, Toyota introduced its first Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV), the bZ4X. BEVs are powered by a large battery pack and high-output electric motors, offering instant acceleration, quiet operation, and smooth performance while producing zero emissions. Unlike other hybrids, BEVs require plugging in as they rely solely on electricity. However, like HEVs and PHEVs, they utilize regenerative braking technology to recharge the onboard battery while driving. In addition to instant acceleration, quiet operation, smooth performance, and zero emissions, other benefits of BEVs include fuel savings, lower maintenance costs, and eligibility for EV incentives from federal and provincial governments (for qualifying transactions under the Government of Canada’s iZEV Program¹). Currently, Salmon Arm Toyota’s shuttle is a bZ4X.