Is sonar-equipped Prius sold in the US?

<div class='quotetop'>QUOTE(jcristus @ Nov 26 2007, 06:58 PM) [snapback]544515[/snapback]</div>

Ummmm...either he's a bit clueless or he's pulling your leg.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sonar

 

<div class='quotetop'>QUOTE(jcristus @ Nov 26 2007, 08:58 PM) [snapback]544515[/snapback]</div>

Sonar as in underwater ASW systems? but if you mean reflected sound with an inside beeper then:
we had the "sonar" system on our previous Prius and on a number of occasions it saved us from injuring a few people who suddenly darted around vehicles parked beside us. Unfortunately it was built into the bumper so couldn't really take it with us to the '08 which has the colour video system. IMHO the combination of both sound and sight systems can be the most effective.
To date I have found a 4 parking sensors type fitted in a license plate and available for a sale price of $198 USD (reg. $269.95) at:
http://www.sportsimportsltd.com/4pasebaliplm.html
After a trial with the new video we make add this. It would be easy to DIY install.
Gary

 

<div class='quotetop'>QUOTE(Tideland Prius @ Nov 27 2007, 09:08 AM) [snapback]544608[/snapback]</div>

My Prius has that feature and the car I had before my prius had the same feature.

I'm actually a bit disappointed with the implementation of the backup sensors in my Prius. For one, the reverse-beep is very efficiant when it comes to masking the beeps of the backup sensors. The system also doesn't make a difference if there is an obstacle to the right or left behind my car. Other cars, even inexpensive ones, use two speakers instead of Toyota's single speaker thus making it possible to utilize an audio indication on where not do go.

Personally I prefer beeps over an optical warning system since with the beeps I can keep my eyes on the mirrors and surroundings instead of watching a screen.

 

<div class='quotetop'>QUOTE(Tenebre @ Nov 27 2007, 08:57 AM) [snapback]544674[/snapback]</div>

If I understand you correctly the beeps from your backup sensor warning system interfere with the normal beeps the Prius makes when you shift into reverse. If so there is a method of eliminating the standard beeps so you are not distracted by them.
I found the instructions here on PriusChat by using the search function but cannot remember exactly what phrases I used to retrieve them right now. They worked for the '05 but haven't tried on the '08.
I'll post again if I have any luck.
Gary
Edit: found it .... just enter "reverse beeps" in search

 

Our '04 has Sonar.
You mean you didn't know the Prius works well under water? Next you'll tell me you've never even fired torpedoes. Sheesh. Isn't there a thread here somewhere talking about poor door seals? Why else would that be so important.

 

<div class='quotetop'>QUOTE(hill @ Nov 27 2007, 01:49 PM) [snapback]544761[/snapback]</div>

I heard that Prius sold in the Dead Sea region comes not only with a sonar but a persicope as well.

<div class='quotetop'>QUOTE(Prius 07 @ Nov 27 2007, 03:20 PM) [snapback]544796[/snapback]</div>

 

<div class='quotetop'>QUOTE(Canuck @ Nov 27 2007, 06:26 PM) [snapback]544748[/snapback]</div>

Thanks for the tip but unfortunately, my Prius is the euro-version and that nifty little trick doesn't work on mine.
OTOH, the same function but forward is so loud one can easily hear it outside the car. I wish I could balance them out.

 

<div class='quotetop'>QUOTE(jcristus @ Nov 27 2007, 10:58 AM) [snapback]544515[/snapback]</div>

Sonar is useful for finding submarines; there aren't many submarines in Dubai. I'd go with the camera, myself.