80 Percent Choose Self-Parking Prius In Japan
POSTED: 12:30 p.m. EST January 15, 2004
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Toyota has a car for the parallel-parking challenged.
The self-parking car is offered only in Japan -- and has serious drawbacks.
The $2,200 Intelligent Parking Assist option for the Prius model is proving popular; about 80 percent of buyers choose it.
A built-in computer, steering sensor and a tiny camera in the car's rear work together to guide the car into parking spots. The cameras provide a dashboard image, and the driver users controls to tell the car exactly where to park.
But it doesn't work on tight spaces that require moving back and forth. The car also won't stop if a person or an animal or any other obstacle gets in the way.
Toyota said it's unlikely the feature will be offered in the United States because parking is generally easier.
Copyright 2004 by TheBostonChannel.com. The Associated Press contributed to this report. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
