Introduction

High voltage electricity powers an electric motor, generator, and inverter. All other conventional automotive electrical devices such as the headlights, radio, and gauges are powered from a separate 12-Volt battery. Numerous safeguards have been designed into the Prius to help ensure the high voltage, approximately 274-Volt, Nickel Metal Hydride (NiMH) Hybrid Vehicle (HV) battery pack is kept safe and secure in an accident.

The NiMH HV battery pack contains sealed batteries that are similar to rechargeable batteries used in laptop computers, cell phones, and other consumer products. The electrolyte is absorbed in the cell plates and will not normally leak out even if the battery is cracked. In the unlikely event the electrolyte does leak, it can be easily neutralized with a dilute boric acid solution or vinegar.

High voltage cables, identifiable by orange insulation and connectors, are isolated from the metal chassis of the vehicle. These cables are routed underneath and inboard the floor pan reinforcement which would not normally be accessed by emergency responders at the scene of an accident.

Additional topics contained in the guide include:
- Toyota Prius identification.
- Major hybrid component locations and descriptions.
- Extrication, fire, recovery, and other emergency response information.
- Roadside assistance information.

By following the information in this guide, emergency responders will be able to handle the Prius hybrid-electric vehicle as safely as the emergency response of a conventional gasoline engine automobile.

Note: This Prius Emergency Response Guide (Revised) supercedes the earlier Prius Emergency Response Guide published by Toyota Motor Corporation in 2000 (Publication No OTH020U)