About 25 years ago, Toyota launched the Prius, a car that is regarded as the first true hybrid car in the world. The idiosyncratic model not only managed to convince many celebrities who wanted to propagate an environmentally conscious image, but the Prius actually consumed considerably less. In doing so, he ushered in a new era for Toyota, which, in addition to its reputation for reliability, was also increasingly seen as the hybrid brand par excellence. You will notice this today more than ever in their electrified range.
Electrification in all segments
At the Brussels Motor Show, Toyota will present no less than six self-charging hybrid models. For example, you can get acquainted with the new Yaris Cross Hybrid and Corolla Cross Hybrid, but fixed values such as the Yaris Hybrid, the Corolla Hybrid, the C-HR Hybrid and even the spacious RAV4 Hybrid are also represented. In 2023 you even have to do your best to expose Toyota models that are not available with a hybrid powertrain. The Japanese offer electrified alternatives in almost all segments, and the Belgian customer has noticed that.
Last year, for example, the Yaris took third place in the list of the most popular car models in our country, thanks to sales of no fewer than 7,700 copies. The vast majority of those Yarissen (5,175 units) were registered in the name of a private individual. In the private market, Toyota therefore became the second most popular brand in our country with a share of almost 9%, while Toyotas also accounted for 4% of new commercial vehicles. All in all, the brand will record a Belgian market share of 5.8% in 2022, the largest in more than 20 years.
Fifth generation hybrid technology
Don’t think that the average buyer will opt for a non-electrified model anyway, because almost 80% of all Toyotas sold in 2022 had a self-charging hybrid powertrain. For example, among the total of 7,700 Yaris registered last year, there were 4,049 hybrids, while the Yaris Cross Hybrid accounted for 3,651 registrations and the Corolla Hybrid surpassed both with its 4,638 registrations. The Japanese brand has even just developed the fifth generation of its iconic hybrid technology, which debuted in the new Corolla Cross. This improved technology will also make an appearance in the updated version of the Corolla later this year, resulting in an even more fuel-efficient and powerful powertrain.
In the midst of its progress, however, Toyota has not forgotten its origins, as the iconic Prius is still there. In its fifth generation, it is preparing for a new era of Toyota hybrids, because the Prius will only be available with us as a plug-in hybrid with an electric driving range of no less than 70 kilometers. In addition, a new C-HR is also coming, which will also be offered as a rechargeable hybrid in addition to the self-charging hybrid technology. However, it can be even more electric, because Toyota recently added a competent pure electric model to the range in the form of the bZ4X. You can also admire it at the Brussels Motor Show, from 14 to 22 January 2023.
