Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid Electric

The sleek noiseless self-charging HEV has two power sources that combine both the electric motor and the gasoline engine. It’s currently going for $39,500 (about Shs 150 million) due to the running government’s eco-friendly incentives of 0% import duty tax on hybrid electric cars. The car charges itself whenever the driver brakes making it ideal for the city’s stop-and-go traffic – meaning there is no need for plug-in charging.

Thomas Pelletier, managing director of CFAO Motors in Uganda said the Corolla Cross HEV is a game changer in Uganda’s automobility since it seamlessly blends Toyota’s expertise in hybrid technology with the country’s increasing focus on eco-friendly driving. He urged environmentally conscious consumers who have carbon emission commitments and desire to achieve their goals with the Corolla Cross HEV.

“We take pride in introducing innovative and advanced mobility solutions that exceed our customer expectations…Toyota is the benchmark of hybrid technology,” said Pelletier.

The five-seater vehicle is also highly fuel efficient running a 1.8LCC petrol engine has a maximum speed of 170/km. CFAO Motors country sales manager Edwin Muhumuza, says over the years, they have noticed a consumer shift to more compact vehicles as opposed to the larger vehicles due to ease of utility and fuel efficiency and the continuously variable transmission (CVT) engine of the Toyota Corolla Cross HEV will switch to the fuel when cruising on the highway and to the electric motor when going uphill.

“Toyota’s Hybrid Electric System (THS) ensures a harmonious blend of fuel efficiency and performance, with the engine charging the battery via the generator. In certain conditions, such as slow-moving traffic, the petrol engine can cut off, letting the electric motor take over for zero-emissions travelling.”

He said safety is another aspect emphasized in the Toyota Corolla Cross HEV. It apparently comes with the driver and passenger front airbags, two chamber side airbags for the driver and front passenger as well as curtain shield airbags for both the front and rear seats and knee panel airbags for the driver.

CFAO is offering a complimentary 2-year/50,000km free service, a 3-year manufacturer’s warranty and free toad side towing assistance or two years. Muhumuza says the RAV 4 and Hilux models will also soon be added to the hybrid portfolio.