Will Toyota's THS II hybrid powertrain come to America?

1. The Toyota Crown hybrid sedan
   

The Toyota Crown is a luxury sedan that has long been available in Japan and, more recently, China. Thus, the debut of the Crown hybrid concept isn't necessarily big news for American fans of hybrid technology.

What it is news for American fans of hybrid vehicles, however, is Toyota's THS II hybrid powertrain.

According to Toyota, this hybrid powertrain offers two-stage motor-speed reduction, which helps THS II hybrids achieve smooth acceleration, increased fuel efficiency and low CO2 emissions.

So, is the THS II hybrid powertrain better than the Hybrid Synergy Drive that powers the Prius, for example?

Well, that's what makes the THS II and the Crown hybrid newsworthy. The differences between the two powertrains are not all that well known. So, the launch at the Toyota Auto Show will be worth watching.