Hybrid Engines - If Prius can do it, why not Camry?

[derby378]

Has anyone run across attempts to create a hybrid engine conversion for the Toyota Camry?

Just curious - I figured with the success of the Prius and other hybrid cars that someone might try experimenting with the Camry, since there's so many of them on the road (including ours).

[Wonk]

1. Looks like there's one coming down the pipe for '06

http://www.google.com/search?q=hybrid+camry

[Technowitch]

2. Because the Prius drivetrain was completely redesigned

It's not just the engine, but everything between the engine and the wheels -- and all the support electronics.

Even the frame is drastically different.

-Technowitch
2004 Prius owner

[Goldmund]

3. No, but there's a 2005 hybrid Honda Accord

[midnight armadillo]

4. Marketing.

The Prius was the 1st hybrid, and was an experiment in technology & sales. It's likely Toyota opted for a new model rather than a version of an existing one to see if a hybrid car would sell on its own, and also to avoid comparisons between the hybrid & normal drivetrains. The 1st gen Prius was very low powered, don't forget, much less than the 4 cyl in the Camry.

Now that they've proven the concept, they're spreading hybrid engines to other models. My guess is the Prius will continue on as their high-mileage midsize sedan, without the aerodynamic compromises of the Camry, etc etc etc.