“The UK has proved to be a valuable business partner. Building on almost 20 years of manufacturing experience, TMUK’s team members continue to deliver the quality, efficiency and flexibility needed to meet the exacting standards of our customers in Europe," Didier Leroy, Toyota Motor Europe president said in a statement.
"A new chapter is opening today as Britain, a traditional origin of industrial innovation, becomes home to the manufacture of the first full hybrid vehicle for Europe.”
The Auris hybrid will use the same drive train as the Prius, meaning a 1.8-liter Atkinson gasoline engine developing 98 bhp connected to an electric unit that also generates 80 bhp. The hybrid engine configuration allows for a 11.4 second time for the 0 to 62 mph(100 km/h) sprint and offers a top speed of 112 mph (181 km/h). The car returns a combined cycle fuel economy of 74.3 UK mpg (3.8 l/200km) and CO2 emissions are 89 g/km (when equipped with 15-inch wheels). The Auris Hybrid can run in all-electric mode for distances up to 1.2 miles (1.9 km) at speeds up to 30 mph (48 km/h).
The Auris Hybrid has a starting price of 18,950 pounds (EUR22,150, $27,278).
Toyota is splitting the production process of the European RHD Auris between its facilities. The Auris will be built on the same production line as petrol and diesel Auris and Avensis (Burnaston), while the engine will come from Deeside in North Wales.
“It is a proud day as we celebrate the official start of production of the [hybrid] Auris, yet another premium quality model to be built in Britain," added Katsunori Kojima, Toyota manufacturing UK director.
"To manufacture a world-class vehicle you need a world-class team and the commitment and dedication of our members has been crucial. As a model sustainable plant for Toyota in Europe we will truly be an eco plant with eco-minded people building eco cars.”
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