Toyota to make Prius hybrids 'greener' with solar panels

Responding to the increasing demand for "green" cars, Toyota Motor Corp. is set to install solar panels on some Prius hybrids in its next remodeling, a person with direct knowledge of the matter disclosed.

This is according to a Reuters report, which cited the source as saying that the panels, supplied by Kyocera, would be able to power part of the air-conditioning on high-end versions of the gasoline-electric Prius.

The source, who asked not to be identified because he was not allowed to speak publicly, stated that the move was more of a symbolic gesture as it is very difficult to power much more than the air-condition with solar energy.

A Toyota representative declined to comment, saying the company does not discuss future product plans. The Japanese automaker is set to introduce the third-generation Prius next year.