New York revival

More than 20 of the 30 new vehicle introductions at this year's New York International Auto Show were world debuts, and cars took center stage for the first time in a while at a North American auto show.

With a history dating back to 1900, the New York International Auto Show has traditionally served as the final big exhibition of the auto-show season. And big this year's show was. More than 20 of the 30 new vehicle introductions at the April event were world debuts, and for the first time in a while cars took center stage at an auto show in North America. Here are some highlights.

Toyota Prius: The most significant technology story to come out of New York was the unveiling of the all-new 2004 Toyota Prius gasoline/electric hybrid due to go on sale in the fall of 2003. The goal of the vehicle's developers was to bring “hybrid technology into the mainstream consumer mindset,” said Don Esmond, Senior Vice President and General Manager, Toyota Division. The new car features increased interior space, moving from the compact to midsize class, and its new Hybrid Synergy Drive supplies significantly more power and performance. Toyota claims best-in-class fuel economy and emissions for the vehicle.