Toyota to launch 5 new hybrid models by 2020

Toyota Australia has reaffirmed its commitment to adding five new hybrid models to its range over the next two and a half years as it ramps up its plans to deliver the petrol-electric technology to a broader base of customers.

The company’s decision to expand the availability of hybrid models – both passenger cars and SUVs – coincides with stronger-than-expected buyer demand for hybrid versions of the latest Camry.

Since its launch late last year, the hybrid variants have accounted for 48 per cent of Camry orders – a level unprecedented for Toyota hybrids in Australia.

The five new hybrid models will join Camry, the recently launched Corolla hatch and the Prius family that make up the current Toyota hybrid line-up.

Toyota Australia’s Vice President, National Sales & Marketing, Sean Hanley, said the plan to expand the number of hybrid models would be welcomed by motorists who are facing petrol prices that have hit at least a four-year high.

“Toyota Australia is committed to launching five all-new hybrid vehicles as we introduce next-generation passenger cars and SUVs between now and mid-2020 – and more will follow,” Mr Hanley said.

“First off the rank in this hybrid model offensive will be the all-new RAV4 which will become Toyota’s first hybrid SUV in Australia when it arrives in local dealerships during the first half of next year,” he said.

“No matter what happens with petrol prices, Toyota offers motorists a way to save on their fuel bill by opting for vehicles featuring its hybrid technology.

“The hybrid system in the latest generation Camry, for instance, offers more power than the 4-cylinder petrol version, yet consumes half the amount of fuel at just 4.5 litres/100km.

“As a result, owners travelling an annual average of 15,000km could save up to $900 a year at the pump, based on the current national average retail petrol price of $1.59 a litre.”

Mr Hanley said Toyota’s parent company in Japan was continuing to refine and develop its hybrid technology to offer great performance as well as efficiency.

He said Toyota’s hybrid know-how has been successfully applied to motorsport, with a hybrid-powered race car winning this year’s gruelling 24-hour race at Le Mans.

Toyota has also announced development has started on a next-generation super sports car based on the Toyota Gazoo Racing TS050 Hybrid race car that won at Le Mans.