Toyota Unveils New Prius with Improved Fuel Economy in Japan

Tokyo, Oct. 13 (Jiji Press)--Unveiling its new Prius hybrid, to be released in Japan in December, Toyota Motor Corp. <7203> said Tuesday the model is expected to be able to travel up to 40 kilometers per liter of gasoline. The maximum fuel economy will be more than 20 pct better than the 32.6 kilometers for the current model. Toyota premiered the fourth-generation Prius in Las Vegas in September. At Tuesday's event, the company announced the fuel efficiency along with other features of the new model. With sales of the Prius mostly concentrated in Japan and the United States, Toyota faces the challenge of boosting sales of the mainstay hybrid model in Europe and emerging economies. A head wind is blowing against diesel engine vehicles, which have enjoyed popularity in Europe, in the wake of the revelation that German automaker Volkswagen AG has cheated on diesel emissions tests. Following the release of the revamped Prius, Toyota is seen trying to reinforce hybrid sales in Europe. END