LAS VEGAS — Eco-sensitive products, sustainability, recycled materials and bone-rattling sound systems are the hallmarks of the modified 2010 Toyota Prius showcars that debuted on Tuesday at the 2009 SEMA Auto Show. The twins, dubbed Aerius and Aemulus, were tweaked by Five Axis Design.
The customizer created a four-piece aero kit using polyurethane and partially recycled materials made by 3D Carbon. The kit bundles a front lip spoiler, side skirts and a rear lower valance. Custom paint by Nippon Color Design Studio America uses a blue-green pigment inspired by the sky, said Toyota. So much detail went into the environmental aspects of the showcars that even the tire tread on the Aerius has leaf graphics.
The Aerius, which is Latin for "belonging to the air," gets interior seat fabric made from recycled polyester. Both cars get an "eco-sensitive car detailing kit," Toyota said. The original seat materials removed from the Aerius were recycled by Toyota to help make business cards and cosmetic cases with leftover parts donated to local trades, the automaker noted.
The Prius Aemulus, which is Latin for "envious imitation," is being auctioned off as part of an online benefit for the Environmental Media Association at CharityFolks.com/EMA.
The Aerius gets a 10-speaker Pioneer audio system with two 10-inch subwoofers and two DVD headrest rear entertainment units. The Aemulus includes a Pioneer nine-speaker audio system.
Inside Line says: You don't get much more PC than this at the 2009 SEMA Auto Show. — Anita Lienert, Correspondent
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