LAS VEGAS — The Toyota Surfrider Camry Hybrid CNG is not going to be limited to the elite crowd at the 2009 SEMA Auto Show. Toyota said on Tuesday that it will provide a production version of the Camry that runs on compressed natural gas to the Surfrider Foundation. The organization is expected to use it for outreach campaigns, education programs and beach clean-up events.
The Surfrider looks distinctive and PC, with a vehicle wrap that features CNG and Surfrider logos. The car's gas fuel system was replaced with a CNG system in the spare tire well. A viewing window shows off the CNG fuel cylinders.
Toyota says the Surfrider has a range of 250-plus miles and returns 32 miles per gallon in city driving and 24 mpg on the highway. The powertrain is a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine with Toyota's Hybrid Synergy Drive.
The hybrid showcar gets a body kit with a custom front grille and unique rear bumper that covers the tailpipe and exhaust system. The ride height was lowered on an adjustable coil-over suspension. A set of 20-inch alloy wheels rounds out the package.
The nonprofit Surfrider Foundation was founded in Malibu, California. It has 90 chapters worldwide, according to its Web site.
Inside Line says: Post-SEMA, California surfers should keep their eyes peeled for this unusual Camry Hybrid CNG. — Anita Lienert, Correspondent
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