Toyota is showing people what their latest product has to offer in a novel, useful way. Not only is their third-generation Prius (launching 2010) a full hybrid — meaning it can be completely powered by battery — it is embedded with solar panels that can help cool the inside of the vehicle.

They’re promoting their use of solar energy and energy conservation in urban areas across the United States while playing off their tagline “Harmony between man, nature and machine.” People in New York, Chicago, Seattle, San Francisco and LA will get the benefits of free solar-powered Wi-Fi and power outlets via giant Toyata flowers. The base of the plastic flowers consist of benches with 110-volt outlets that operate daily from 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. The company is also demonstrating its solar ventilation in bus shelters.

I’d love to see these energy pods travel and become a permanent fixture in more cities. How often have you been out and about and needed to connect, but not wanted (or too cheap like me) fries with that Wi-Fi? Maybe it could be owned by cities whom could lease out sponsorships to brands. I bet there are a lot of cities who could use some extra dough right now. Arnold, there’s an idea for you.

Thanks to Jim Napolitano for the link.

Sarah Jo Sautter