Toyota Surfrider Camry Hybrid CNG

November 2, 2009 | USA

The Toyota Surfrider Camry Hybrid CNG

Gasoline fuel system replaced by CNG system; Range – 250 miles

Toyota Motor Sales (TMS) U.S.A., Inc. has partnered with the Surfrider Foundation to create a specially modified Camry Hybrid fueled by compressed natural gas (CNG), reflecting Toyota involvement with environmental awareness. The Toyota Surfrider Camry Hybrid CNG is on display in the Environmental Lifestyle Zone of the Toyota vehicle display at the 2009 SEMA Show. Toyota says the Camry Hybrid CNG pushes the envelope on alternative fuel possibilities and follows the first showing of a Camry CNG hybrid at the LA Motor Show in November last year.

Toyota Surfrider Camry Hybrid CNG Specifications (Preliminary):

Powertrain: 2.4-liter, four-cylinder engine with Toyota Hybrid Synergy Drive®; Gasoline fuel system replaced by CNG system
Estimated Fuel Economy: City/Highway/Combined = 32/24/33 (Actual mileage will vary)
Net Horsepower: Engine + Electric Motor + Generator + Power Storage = 170 HP
CNG System: Two Lincoln composite Type 4 tanks – plastic liner with carbon fiber wrapped exterior tanks installed in spare tire well area; Maximum 3,600 psi
Capacity: Proposed eight gallon gasoline equivalent
Range: 250+ miles

Toyota says the current benefits of CNG are amplified by rapidly changing market conditions and an increase in consumer environmental awareness. As a transport fuel, natural gas is a clean and safe gasoline alternative. It can potentially reduce U.S. dependency on foreign oil and reduce vehicle operating costs. Currently, more than 99 percent of natural gas used in the U.S. comes from domestic and other American sources.

The CNG system was built by Metal Crafters of Fountain Valley, Calif. To convert the stock Camry Hybrid to a CNG vehicle, the gasoline fuel system was replaced with a CNG system in the spare tire well area.

At the conclusion of the 2009 SEMA Show Toyota will provide a production version of the Surfrider Camry Hybrid CNG to the Surfrider Foundation. The vehicle will be driven to, and displayed at numerous outreach campaigns, education programs and beach cleanup events.

The Surfrider Foundation is a non-profit grassroots organization dedicated to the protection and enjoyment of the world’s oceans, waves and beaches.

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