So when will I be able to buy a 2010 Prius? Take delivery? I live in Arkansas, not on the west coast. The last word from Toyota that I saw on their website was "late Spring." But a local dealer here is saying "late June." And when it happens, how much do folks think it might drive down the prices of 2009 Prii, so one can reasonably compare latest-&-greatest with pretty-good? And finally, will the Lithium ion battery be available in 2010? 2011?
Since you're not near any of the coasts, "late June" sounds about right. I've been hearing people saying the 2009 will come close to $18K pretty soon. As for Lithium, it won't be in the 2010.
No. The 2nd video at http://priuschat.com/forums/2010-toyota-prius/60002-prius-technology-video.html addresses this quesiton. Upgrade is unlikely. I don't remember if/where Toyota has officially posted a statement saying that no, there is no upgrade path for existing 2010 Priuses. They have said no at least once.
First 2010's will hit dealerships third week of May thru the 2nd week of June. Those who purchase now will not be able to upgrade to Li Ion later. As of now, there is no date only speculation on when Li Ion will be out. Plenty more info available, just search around and enjoy the site.
$18k huh? The teaser ads in the paper '1 at this price' are still showing $20,800 for a pack2. $18k would be $6.5k off 2008 MSRP. Sounds awfully low to me.
