Toyota has also jump in launch of Hybrid cars like Honda Civic, Mahindra Scorpio Hybrid, Mitsubishi MiEVs, it would bring superstar hybrid model “Prius” to Indian automobile market by 2009. And Toyota Prius expected price is between Rs. 18 lakh to Rs. 22 lakh in India. It is available in around Rs. 10 lakh only in the US market but while it will come in India, government takes high import duties as much 114% then price will have become above double. Indian governments need to promote & support this type of market in India after hike of fuel (Rs. 5/-petro, Rs. 3/- Diesel) prices; they need to provide subsidies and tax rebates on these types of Hybrid cars.

The Prius first went on sale in Japan in 1997 and is currently sold in more than 40 countries, with its largest markets being Japan and North America. Last year, Prius accounted for more than 40% hybrid sales in the US. Toyota and Honda the leading manufacturers of hybrid vehicles globally, and Toyota Prius (launched 11 years ago) is the market leader.

Worldwide cumulative sales of Prius in May 2008 crossed a million units. While Toyota chose to use a totally new brand name for its hybrid car, Honda elected to offer hybrid versions of its popular models such as Accord and Civic. Environmental concerns (and rising gasoline prices in the US) have spurred the sales of these greener cars.

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