Daihatsu to launch fuel-efficient mini-vehicle

Daihatsu, Toyota’s mini-vehicle subsidiary, is planning to launch the e:S, a fuel-efficient mini-vehicle, in Japan in 2011. Daihatsu President Koichi Ina said that the new mini-vehicle will achieve fuel efficiency of 30 kilometers per liter, according to the JC08 fuel efficiency standards. Ina said the e:S will be produced at its Oita plant in Nakatsu, Oita Prefecture, and it is expected to be priced under ¥1.0 million (US$11,277). With this launch, the company reportedly aims to increase its domestic mini-vehicle market share to almost 40% as early as possible, from around 35.2% in Fiscal Year 2009/2010. (June 30, 2010)