By Kate R.
Posted on Feb. 18, 2010. Listed in:
Toyota have launched a new hybrid vehicle this month. The Hybrid Camry is Toyota's first mid-size sedan to incorporate Hybrid Synergy Drive (HSD) technology and the company is optimistic that sales in NZ will soar.
Chief Executive Alistair Davis said "This is an exciting time for Toyota in New Zealand and globally. Hybrid Camry represents a crucial step towards broadening the appeal of hybrid vehicles in the market".
Toyota has focused on the development of hybrid technology, instead of diesel or fuel-celled technology, because it feels that hybrids provide an "ideal long-term solution" in motoring.
The Camry is the first of Toyota's existing fleet to receive the hybrid treatment, but it is though that other models may be transformed in the future.
“We’re responding to the needs of New Zealand motorists by introducing fuel-saving and emissions reducing technology as a mainstream option in the Camry,” said Davis.
Also on the cards for Toyota, is the trial of a plug-in hybrid with a corporate customer later in the year. This technology will allow the customer to plug-in the battery to recharge it, further improving on fuel efficiency and cost.
Davis noted “As hybrid and electric cars become the norm, we predict vehicles will become more like electrical appliances, therefore the car’s interface with the electricity system will be extremely important.”
It took Toyota nearly a decade to sell its first million hybrid vehicles, yet the second million was reached in a quarter of that time, suggesting that the tide may finally be turning towards hybrids.
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