As Toyota launches production of its latest hybrid model in Derbyshire this week, the carmaker reveals that it has already sold its allocation of the new model-set to be built at its Burnaston plant- up to the end of the year.
The new Auris HSD is the second only hybrid model to be produced by the Japanese car giant and the first hybrid to be built in Europe. As an exciting new addition to the Auris line-up, the carmaker expects to sell 7,000 models in its first full year of production.
Speaking to news agency, Headlineauto, Miguel Fonseca, managing director of Toyota GB said customer confidence in the brand remained high despite the recall issues earlier this year.
“We reacted very quickly in the UK to the problems and within three months we had taken care of 95 per cent of all the models affected by the recall – that is a great performance given that this can take years to complete.
Fonseca said that the company’s response to the recall had gone down very well with customers. “They have been impressed by the speed with which we took action and if anything it has increased their confidence in Toyota.
“Sales are now back above pre-recall levels and we are growing retail sales to private customers. We are now fourth in terms of retail sales, up from sixth two years ago.”
The first Auris Hybrid came off the Burnaston line today in front of Secretary of State for Business, Innovation and Skills, Vince Cable who described it as “a very good day for Toyota, the region and the UK”.
Using the familiar Hybrid Synergy Drive (HSD) technology first featured in the Prius, the new 5-door Auris hybrid has fuel consumption of only 74.3 mpg (combined cycle) and remarkably low CO2 emissions of just 89g/km. Starting at £18,950, the car will be launched in 32 countries across Europe, with deliveries to the first customers starting next month.
