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ReprintsBreeding a hybrid? Prius could be a brand
Rick Kranz
Automotive News
March 10, 2008 - 12:01 am ET
GENEVA — Is there a family of Prius models in Toyota's future? Today, there is just one Prius, a five-door hatchback. But next decade, Prius could become a brand of its own with a range of models. "We are studying that, but I can't say what stage of the study we are in," Kazuo Okamoto, Toyota Motor Corp.'s executive vice president for r&d, said in an interview. "I do think it is a reasonable direction." Asked about coupes, sedans and wagons, Okamoto said, "Using the Prius platform for various variations is possible." Okamoto offered no timetable or hint of what models are being considered. Until this year, the Prius has been sold only in Japan, Europe and the United States. Last year, 281,000 Prius cars were sold worldwide. The United States accounted for 181,221. Said Okamoto: "Prius recognition level is increasing" worldwide, which could result in a wider model line. |
You can reach Rick Kranz at rkranz@crain.com.
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Kazuo Okamoto, Toyota’s executive vice president for r&d: "Using the Prius platform for various variations is possible." |
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