The world finally saw the unveiling of the fourth-generation 2016 Toyota Prius live on Tuesday night, shortly before midnight. Held at the Linq Hotel in Las Vegas, Nevada, the event was filled with food, music, and special effects to celebrate the unveiling of one of the game changers in the auto industry today. 

Bill Fay, vice president and general manager of the Toyota Division group, revealed during the launch that the 2016 Toyota Prius is now breaking its own comfort zone of simply providing green car technology in the market by incorporating a more engaging exterior look and adding fun-to-drive characteristics. 

"What was once a rational purchase that for many customers focused on fuel economy, is now so much more. This Prius will invite new drivers into the category by delivering an impressive look and feel, built on the foundation of safety and eco-consciousness that define the vehicle's heritage," the Toyota executive said. 

The new 2016 Toyota Prius is also anounced to be the first product from the Japanese car maker that uses their exclusive modular platform known as Toyota New Global Architecture. This means that the cars made from this platform have a firmer chassis as well as a lower center of gravity. It is also expected to have improved aerodynamics that go with an all-new exterior design and a larger, more spacious interior. 

Safety is also a major priority in the fourth-generation Toyota Prius, as it features the Toyota Safety Sense package. Boasting advanced technology, it has a pre-collision system complete with pedestrian detection, a dedicated lane departure warning, radar cruise control, as well as automatic high beams. The exterior LED lightings also ensure the safety of the driver and the passengers alike. 

Car enthusiasts can expect to see the 2016 Toyota Prius in authorized car dealerships starting next year. 

Prior to the actual unveiling event at midnight, Toyota USA and AutoNation also celebrated a milestone after selling one million Toyota units in the country. The entertainment during the event proper was provided by Australian alternative rock band Atlas Genius. The launch was hosted by Ted Stryker. 

Fans can relive the unveiling of the new 2016 Toyota Prius anywhere via this livestream.