Correct me if I am wrong, but it'll also be the first to use Li-Ion Battery? Prius still uses Ni-MH cell, which is still cheaper and less energy dense. Most of the powertrain component is exclusive to this car, so nothing to spread out the cost with, I am sure the main reason for Toyota being able to drive the cost down now is that the essential bits of hybrid powertrain is now used in many different cars so the volume is much higher...
University of Toronto Formula SAE Alumni 2003-2007
Formula Student Championship 2003, 2005, 2006
www.fsae.utoronto.ca