Hybrid Synergy Drive

Of course, Toyota's little Prius Hybrid cars have been on the road for a while now, but just today I was made aware of one of its features on a commercial: the regenerative braking system, as explained in this guide.

Instead of wasting energy as heat dissipated from the braking system, the regenerative braking system uses the motor as a generator to convert braking energy into electricity that is stored in the battery. This system is particularly effective in stop-start city driving.

Very clever, if I may say so. We all know that stop-start driving (especially among SUV's and the like) is probably one of the biggest culprits behind gas consumption in America. So by simply paying attention to The First Law of Thermodynamics, this car is doing a lot to cut down on energy wastage. Way to think long-term.