Toyota to make Prius hybrid in Thailand

Toyota Motor Corp. said it will launch production of its Prius gasoline-electric hybrid vehicle in Thailand at the end of November. The Japanese auto giant will make the latest Prius model at its Gateway Plant in Chachoengsao Province. Core components, including hybrid systems, will be procured from Japan, company officials said. Toyota is targeting monthly sales of 700 to 1,000 units of the Prius, which is expected to carry a price tag of around 1.3 million baht (US$43,456). No exports are planned for the time being, the officials said. (October 21, 2010)