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This excerpt taken from the TM 20-F filed Jun 24, 2005. Hybrid
The Prius is the worlds first mass-produced hybrid car. It runs on an optimal combination of gasoline and electric power. This system allows it to travel twice as far as conventional vehicles of comparable size and performance on the same amount of gasoline. In addition, the hybrid design of the Prius results in the output of 75% less pollution than the maximum amount allowed by Japanese environmental regulations. Toyota views the Prius as the cornerstone of its emphasis on designing and producing environmentally friendly automobiles. In 2003, Toyota introduced in Japan, the United States, Europe and other markets, a fully remodeled Prius, which combines decreased environmental impact by higher fuel efficiency and ultra-low emissions with increased power and performance. Toyota introduced hybrid versions of the RX400h, a Lexus brand sports-utility vehicle (marketed in Japan as the Harrier), in North America, Europe and Japan, and the Highlander sport-utility vehicle (marketed in Japan as the Kluger V and L) in North America and Japan in March 2005. Toyota plans to introduce the Prius in China in the second half of 2005 and the hybrid version of the Camry in North America in 2006. Toyota also plans to introduce the hybrid version of the Lexus brand premium sedan, the GS450h, in North America, Europe and Japan in the first half of 2006. As of March 31, 2005, Toyota has sold over 360,000 hybrid vehicle units. Toyota also began limited sales of a fuel cell hybrid vehicle in Japan and the United States in December 2002. In June 2005, Toyotas new fuel cell hybrid passenger vehicle became the first vehicle in Japan
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Table of Contentsto acquire vehicle type certification under the Road Vehicles Act, as amended and enacted on March 31, 2005, by Japans Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Tranport (MLIT). Leases for the vehicle are expected to begin on July 1, 2005. Toyota aims to continue its efforts to offer a diverse lineup of hybrid vehicles, enhance engine power while improving fuel efficiency, and to otherwise work towards increasing the sales of hybrid vehicles.
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