Toyota plans to focus on hybrids with gasoline-engine improved fuel economy

Toyota Motor Corporation announced late September that it will focus on hybrid vehicles, and that it plans to introduce 21 hybrid car models by the end of 2015, including 14 new and seven-related models. The company plans to work on gasoline-engine technology to improve fuel economy by 25%. The company will also offer the electric “eQ” vehicle in December in Japan and the U.S., but in a very limited release.
“Environmentally-friendly cars best contribute to the environment through their widespread use,” said Toyota Vice Chairman Takeshi Uchiyamada at a press conference in Tokyo. This year, Toyota introduced a small hybrid vehicle called “Aqua” for the local market, and the hybrid versions of “Yaris”. Toyota expects to surpass annual sales of one million vehicles worldwide for the first time in 2012, and aims to carry that momentum into 2013 and beyond by developing a new hybrid engine for use in its Crown line and other vehicles. (September 25, 2012)