The Estima hybrid, with a maximum output of 1,500 watts, can supply enough electricity to power a number of household appliances and its engine starts automatically to keep the battery recharged. On a full tank of fuel, it can maintain maximum power for around two days.

Toyota is providing the system for free as an emergency power source for the Tohoku prefectures, and will begin retrofitting it to 40 Prius models already in service as municipal vehicles.