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07/07/2008 09:25 AM

Third-Generation Prius To Have Solar Roof - Reports

SustainableBusiness.com News

Toyota Motor Corp. (NYSE: TM) plans to install solar panels on some Prius hybrids as part of its next generation remodeling, according to reports by Reuters and AFP.

AFP cited a story in the Nikkei economic daily, which said high-end models will be fitted with rooftop solar panels--a move that would be a first for mass-produced vehicles.

Reuters added that the panels will be supplied by Japanese solar company Kyocera Corp (NYSE: KYO) and would be capable of powering part of the air-conditioning.

Reuters quoted an unidentified source as saying, "It's more of a symbolic gesture. It's very difficult to power much more than that with solar energy."

A Toyota spokesman would not comment on the report.

The company plans to launch the third-generation Prius next year.

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