Australia's first locally produced hybrid car is officially on the way
Aug 30, 2009 By Toyota Australia.
Toyota today marked the official start of pilot production of the ultra fuel-efficient Hybrid Camry with a ceremony at the company's Altona manufacturing plant.
Victorian Premier John Brumby and Federal Industry Minister Kim Carr joined Toyota Australia President and CEO Max Yasuda for the historic occasion.
They pushed a 'power' button to officially commence pilot production - building a small number of cars to test manufacturing processes, parts and assembly methods.
Full-scale production is due to begin in December and Hybrid Camry will go on sale around Australia from February next year.
Premier Brumby said the Hybrid Camry is a major achievement that will boost the future of Victorian car manufacturing.
Senator Carr said it makes perfect economic and environmental sense to support technology, such as Toyota's Hybrid Camry, that delivers significant gains right here and right now.
Mr Yasuda said introducing hybrid technology in Toyota's local manufacturing is one of the most significant developments in the company's 50-year history in Australia.
He said it has the potential to change the automotive landscape forever.
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