The US government is investigating the Toyota Prius after complaints were received about the engine suddenly stalling – often at high speeds – which have sparked safety concerns.

The US government is investigating the Toyota Prius after complaints were received about the engine suddenly stalling – often at high speeds – which have sparked safety concerns.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration opened its preliminary investigation this week after receiving several complaints about engine problems, some of which had occurred at speed, news agency reported.

The second-generation Prius, which was introduced to the South African market at the beginning of this year, is the manufacturer’s third best selling passenger car in the US.

The award-winning Prius uses an innovative petrol-hybrid powertrain that has prompted its rivals to offer similar technology on their models. The hybrid powerplant was voted last year’s International Engine of the year and in this year’s competition was voted the best engine in two of the categories.

US-based analysts have said it is too early to measure what impact the result of the investigation would have on Toyota. However, they added that product glitches rarely affected demand for individual cars, and that the Prius’ sales would likely remain largely unaffected.

The report noted that in more than 85 per cent of the complaints received, it was said that the car had stalled between 56 and 105 km/h. While some drivers were able to operate the vehicle in electric mode for a time, many said they could not be restarted and their cars had to be towed.

No accidents were reported in the US.

The preliminary evaluation will determine the accuracy of complaints, the safety impact and whether the investigation should be expanded.

Original article from Car