Quick wins for a faster PC:
Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Sapphire Energy’s Algaeus was a modified Toyota Prius shown in San Francisco on September 8, 2009, to demonstrate the company’s algae-derived fuel concept. It was not a retail vehicle launch: VentureBeat reported that Sapphire did not build the car or its plug-in hybrid system.
What was the Algaeus?
The Algaeus was a promotional demonstration vehicle based on a Toyota Prius. Sapphire Energy presented it as a way to show how its “green crude” might be used in transportation. The announcement was part of a broader alternative-vehicle caravan and coincided with the debut of the documentary FUEL.
VentureBeat’s September 8, 2009 report explicitly distinguished Sapphire’s fuel from the vehicle technology: Sapphire was not responsible for building the car or its plug-in hybrid system. Calling the Algaeus a Sapphire-built hybrid therefore overstates the company’s role.
What did Sapphire say its algae fuel could do?
The report described “green crude” as a drop-in hydrocarbon fuel intended to replace gasoline and jet fuel. It said Sapphire grew algae in salt-water ponds using carbon dioxide and sunlight, then relied on a proprietary microbial process. Those are the company’s claims as reported at the time, not independent confirmation of the fuel’s composition, production process, or performance.
#1 Best Overall
- A plastic model that needs to be assembled.
- 1/32 scale color-coded plastic assembly kit
- Painting not required
- Seals included
Was the Algaeus really rated at 150 mpg?
VentureBeat said the Algaeus “supposedly gets 150 miles per gallon.” The article supplied no test method, driving conditions, or other basis for that number, so it should be treated as an attributed claim—not a verified fuel-economy result or a comparable rating for ordinary Prius models.
What else did the 2009 announcement include?
The report said the Algaeus was planned for a 10-day nationwide tour. It also described a proposed New Mexico demonstration plant with planned annual capacity of 2 million gallons of diesel and 1 million gallons of jet fuel. Those were plans reported in 2009; the article does not establish that the tour occurred as planned or that the plant was completed.
Rank #2
- Brand new box. Detailed exterior. Real rubber tires. True-to-scale detail. Officially licensed product. Does not have any openings. Comes in a plastic display showcase. Manufacturer's original unopened packaging. Made of diecast metal with some plastic parts. Dimensions approximately L-2.75 inches long.
VentureBeat reported that Sapphire had raised more than $100 million by that time. That is a historical figure from the same 2009 account, not a statement about the company’s current funding or operations. The article also quoted Sapphire CEO Jason Pyle saying, “I think algae is one of the only viable technologies for this,” and, “The main challenge is not technical, it’s willpower.” These were advocacy statements from the company’s CEO, not neutral scientific conclusions.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Could a driver buy the Algaeus or its fuel?
The announcement describes a demonstration, not a consumer vehicle offering, and establishes no retail purchase option for the Algaeus or a fuel product. It also does not establish whether the proposed production plans later came to fruition or whether Sapphire’s fuel is commercially available today. The documentary’s presence at the event likewise does not establish any particular edition or current availability.
Rank #3
![Matchbox 2023 Toyota Prius Prime [Blue] 41/125, 1:64 Scale Diecast Toy Vehicle](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51WgPj-mGkL._SL160_.jpg)
- Authentic Model Design: 2023 Toyota Prius Prime in a Deep Blue Finish
- Collectible Series Number: Number 41/125 in the Overall Series
- Precise Scale Replica: 1:64 Scale Diecast Toy Car with detailed construction
- Quality Construction: Durable diecast metal body with authentic Toyota Prius Prime styling and features
- Brand New Condition: Comes brand new in original Matchbox packaging, ready to display or play
Source: VentureBeat’s September 8, 2009 report on Sapphire Energy’s Algaeus.
Quick Recap
Best Value
![Hot Wheels Toyota Prius Custom [White] J-Imports 1/10, 60/250, New for 2026! 1:64 Scale Diecast Toy Vehicle](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41NgwNsRnSL._SL160_.jpg)
- Toyota Prius Custom in a Stunning White Finish!
- Number 1/10 in the J-Imports Set! Number 60/250 in the Overall Series!
- 1:64 Scale Diecast Toy Car
Rank #4
- SCALE: Authentic 1:64 scale die-cast model of the latest Toyota Prius Prime in pristine white color
- COLLECTIBLE SERIES: Part of the 2023 Matchbox collection, numbered 102 out of 125 in the series
- DETAILED DESIGN: Features precise body styling, distinctive headlights, and accurate wheel designs matching the real vehicle
- DISPLAY READY: Perfect size for collectors' displays, measuring approximately 3 inches in length
- AUTHENTIC REPLICA: True-to-life representation of Toyota's popular hybrid vehicle with detailed exterior features
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
