TOYOTA HINTS AT ITS LOCAL HYBRID FUTURE

Toyota Australia has celebrated winning the right to manufacture a hybrid car in Australia by producing a stylish concept car.

Developed locally by Toyota Style Australia, the HC-CV (Hybrid Camry Concept Vehicle) had its world premiere ahead of the 2009 Melbourne International Motor Show.

The unveiling of the concept car marks the start of a 12-month countdown to the launch of Australia’s first locally produced hybrid car, based on the best-selling Camry sedan.

Toyota Australia president and chief executive officer Max Yasuda said the concept car was the most important vehicle on the company’s motor show stand.

“The startling paintwork, dramatic lines and sporty appearance of this concept car convey the excitement and passion in our company to produce Australia’s first hybrid car,” Mr Yasuda said.

“The hybrid Camry – which will share some key design features with the HC-CV – will play a key role in bringing the future to the Australian automotive manufacturing sector.

“It is a future that uses less fuel while delivering better performance.”

The hybrid Camry uses a four-cylinder petrol engine linked to a powerful electric motor.

It produces more power than a conventional petrol-engine vehicle while delivering better fuel economy.

Mr Yasuda said many industry commentators were urging carmakers to produce more fuel-efficient cars.

“Toyota is already the only local manufacturer producing a four-cylinder car in this country. We have been building Camry in this country – in Melbourne – for nearly 22 years.

“It’s been Australia’s best-selling medium car for 15 years – and it’s our leading automotive export.

“Toyota also produces the most fuel-efficient Australian-made large six-cylinder sedan, the Aurion, in Melbourne.