Britain is set to be the first country in Europe chosen by Toyota to produce its hybrid vehicles.
Production of an Auris hatchback will make the UK only the fourth country globally to undertake hybrid manufacturing for the Japanese giant, with China and the United States producing a small number of the vehicles.
A confirmation of orders is expected in the coming months, with production starting at Toyota’s Burnaston-based plant by the end of 2009. Such will make good on Lord Mandelson’s assertion that the UK will become a centre for the production of low emission vehicles.
Toyota’s flagship vehicle, the Prius, has sold 1m worldwide since its launch in 1997.
Edward Machin
