Toyota Prius Plug-in Hybrid

Engineering Explained · Engineering Explained · 29 May 2026

One of the most technically advanced four-cylinder engines ever just launched. A small, two-liter inline-four is cranking out 324 horsepower, but it’s not just the power that’s impressive, as it’s thermal efficiency can rival that of a Toyota Prius engine. The secret? Turbulent Jet Ignition - the same technology used in Formula 1. A tiny pre-chamber surrounds the spark plug, which when it fires, shoots out flames from the pre-chamber, igniting the air-fuel mixture rapidly, reducing the likelihood of knock, and efficiently producing power. Compare this to traditional engines, where the flame p…