Toyota Boss Hints at When the Avanza Hybrid Could Launch
Toyota Motor Manufacturing Indonesia (TMMIN) is exploring the development of hybrid cars to expand its export market. One model in focus is the Avanza, Toyota’s family car, which has a strong market in Indonesia and several other countries.
TMMIN President Director Nandi Julyanto said hybrid vehicles had significant potential in markets around the world. The technology is considered suitable for markets seeking fuel efficiency but without adequate electric-vehicle charging infrastructure.
“Actually, hybrid vehicles are suitable for almost every country; it just depends on the model. So if the models are the Innova and Avanza, hybrids could do quite well in almost every country,” Nandi said.
Hybrid vehicles have the advantage of not relying entirely on charging infrastructure, unlike fully electric cars. This gives Toyota an opportunity to market electrified vehicles in countries where conventional petrol-powered cars remain prevalent.
Latin America is one region with potential for this market. In addition to wanting fuel efficiency, consumers there need vehicles that are easy to maintain and can carry many passengers.
“So, countries such as those in Latin America still want fuel efficiency, but do not need the infrastructure,” Nandi said.
Toyota continues to rely on several key models for both domestic and export markets. The Avanza, Fortuner and Innova remain among the popular models, while the Yaris Cross hybrid is also attracting interest.
The trend shows that hybrid vehicles are one way for carmakers to broaden the market for electrified vehicles. However, the development of the technology for each model still depends on the company’s strategy and planning.
“The Avanza, Fortuner and Innova are still [in demand]. And what is most interesting is that hybrids have grown significantly,” Nandi said.
Nandi did not confirm when the Avanza hybrid would be launched. His remarks merely suggested that he hoped the model would arrive in the future.
“Unfortunately, we don’t have a hybrid Avanza yet. Hopefully—when? Soon. Please keep your fingers crossed,” Nandi said.