Based on the third-generation Prius, the 2010 Toyota Prius Plug-in Hybrid Vehicle made its North American debut yesterday at the Los Angeles Auto Show.

Built to support a global demonstration programme that begins this month, the vehicle expands Toyota’s hybrid synergy drive technology thanks to the introduction of a first generation lithium-ion battery that allows for all-electric operation at higher speeds and longer distances than a regular Prius. Indeed when fully charged the vehicle can reach a maximum electric only range of 13 miles and is capable of 60mph while in electric only mode.

When longer distances are needed, the Prius Plug-in Hybrid Vehicle (PHV) can revert to charge sustaining mode and operates in the same manner as a regular Prius. As it can be driven in all-electric mode for short trips and can turn to hybrid power for longer drives, there is no issue regarding cruising range.

The Toyota Prius PHV marks the first time that the company has used lithium-ion batteries with its joint venture battery production company Panasonic Electric Vehicle Energy. Panasonic now has a dedicated production line that manufactures more than 500 lithium-ion batteries. As for the batteries themselves, they have undergone rigorous testing in a wide variety of climatic environments and driving conditions and have been deemed both reliable and durable.

Later this month, 350 vehicles will be delivered in Japan and Europe in an effort to raise awareness of this new technology. Then, from next year, 150 vehicles will begin arriving in the US where they will be placed in clusters with select partners for consumer analysis and technical demonstration. Toyota hopes to gather real world feedback to better understand expectations for the technology.