Friday, March 11, 2011

Toyota will Launch 10 Hybrid Car Models

Toyota plans to launch ten new hybrid models globally until 2015, according to business plan released by this Japanese automotive manufacturer.

According to the New York Times, if Toyota's previous statements regarding the development of hybrid cars is still valid, six of the 10 hybrid models will enter the market in 2012.

"Not all hybrids will be sold in the United States," wrote New York Times.

The public has already known about the hybrid Lexus 200h CT and Toyota Prius V released in 2011 that is more roomy.

The new Prius for Europe and Japan market has been introduced at the Geneva Motor Show 2011. The new version is similar to Prius V but the it is capable of accommodating seven passengers and put lithium-ion batteries instead of nickel metal hydride batteries. Toyota likely will give a separate name for the model.

Toyota Prius is more compact, like the concept of Prius C, is possibly included in this group. Prius' plug-ins " which have traveled 13 miles , will be launched to the market in early 2012.

Toyota also said that they would continue the project for pure electric vehicles and hydrogen fuel-cell.

Toyota has showed their RAV4 electric version, which was developed with Tesla Motors, at LA Auto Show in November.

Based on their business plan, Toyota also will improve fuel economy of gasoline vehicles. Also mentioned in the plan is the continued effort to position Lexus as a global luxury brand.

They plan to have a hybrid variant of their fastest vehicles in the early of 2020.