Hybrids set for new highs as Toyota extends range

Hybrids have proven themselves to be anything other than a technical novelty, says Toyota, as the car maker points to the steady rise in hybrid sales over the past five years; of which its own models have accounted for 75 per cent in the UK.

Since 2007, up to the end of the first quarter of this year, almost 100,000 hybrid vehicles have been sold in the UK according to data from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders; of which, 77,000 were Toyota or Lexus cars – a proportion of more than three in every four hybrids registered. In terms of hybrid’s market share, the figures have almost doubled, from 0.7 per cent to 1.3 per cent so far in 2012.

More to come

While hybrids have already proven successful, Toyota expects that this year, even more drivers will make the switch to hybrid power as the firm launches its Yaris Hybrid this summer.

At other end of the size scale, the summer will also mark the debut of Prius+, the first seven-seat full hybrid in Europe. By using compact and powerful lithium-ion battery technology, Toyota has been able to give Prius+ a spacious and fully flexible interior. The new range will also deliver CO₂ emissions starting at less than 100g/km, earning road tax (VED) and London congestion charge exemption.

Of course that’s not all Toyota has planned this year as part of its expansion of hybrid technology, the firm is also launching the Prius Plug-In; a development from the original Prius, which will allow the car to recharge from mains electricity and make greater use of zero-emission, battery-driven driving.

Hybrid’s role in the luxury market will be reinforced by the introduction of the new GS executive sports saloon to complement the hugely successful CT 200h.

Jon Williams, Toyota President and Managing Director said : “The SMMT data show how the momentum for hybrid is increasing. Motorists appreciate its environmental performance, its reliability and ease of use, plus the smooth and refined driving quality.

“Toyota’s leadership in hybrid technology is not just about the models we have launched and the new vehicles we are bringing to market this year. It also serves as a proven, flexible technology platform for creating different power trains – all-electric, plug-in hybrid and fuel cell vehicles – with which we will be able to develop and deliver sustainable transport with minimum environmental impact.”

The Green Car Website