Business Secretary launches production of first mass produced European hybrid car
Business Secretary Vince Cable witnessed a series of 'firsts' today (28 June) as he toured Toyota's Burnaston plant in Derby and officially launched production of the first Auris Hybrid cars.
皇冠体育app Auris Hybrid is the first mass-produced fully hybrid vehicle in Europe and has the first hybrid engine to be made outside of Japan, which is manufactured at Toyota鈥檚 Deeside plant in North Wales.
It鈥檚 further demonstration that vehicle manufacturers in the UK are making the transition to low carbon transport a reality. Production of the Auris Hybrid will safeguard 400 jobs at the two plants.
Business Secretary Vince Cable said:
鈥淭oyota鈥檚 decision to make Burnaston the only plant in the world to build the Hybrid Auris is a strong endorsement of the UK as a manufacturing base for the next generation of cars.
鈥淚t is sending a signal to manufacturers that if you鈥檙e not in the UK, then you鈥檙e missing out on all the strengths and skills that the UK has to offer.鈥�
Mr Katsunori Kojima, Managing Director of Toyota Manufacturing UK added:
鈥淚t is a proud day for Toyota Manufacturing UK as we celebrate the official start of production of the Auris Hybrid Synergy Drive, yet another premium quality model to be built in Britain. To manufacture a world-class vehicle you need a world-class team and the commitment and dedication of our members has been crucial.
鈥淎s a model sustainable plant for Toyota in Europe we will truly be an eco plant with eco-minded people building eco cars.鈥�
皇冠体育app Toyota Auris Hybrid goes on sale in the UK on Thursday 1 July.