According to GoAuto, the management of the plant is trying its best to convince the upper management of the company to invest for the retooling.
“I understand the engine plant decision is still pending,” a Toyota senior executive told GoAuto. “Apart from that, I can’t say anything.”
Until a decision about its fate is made, the plant will continue to manufacture the current AZ engine until at least the end of 2011. After that, if the investment is not approved, production will likely be moved to Thailand.
Such an outcome has been acknowledged by Toyota's executive vice president Yukitoshi Funo, who told journalists that the carmaker will need to talk to Thailand to maximise export and manufacturing opportunities.
The Altona engine plant is part of the bigger complex, which includes a foundry, panel stamping plant, paint shop and assembly lines. In all, the facility employs 3,500 people.
This is the site where the hybrid Camry will be built. The car uses a 2.4l petrol engine and an electric drive, delivering together some 140 kW (188 hp), up from the 117 kW (157 hp) developed by the regular sedan.
The hybrid is expected to be at least AU$3,500 over the regular Camry.
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