The hybrid Camry has been selling up at strom in the US in good numbers aswell but like everyone at the moment has seen recent declines.

The world is experiancing an economic downturn which is a very normal part of the economic cycle as things go up and things come down .. were there is a boom there is a bust, were there is a bust there is a boom.

It’s a natural cycle that keeps everything in check otherwise none of us will ever be able to afford a house, car or any form of luxuries.

Thank-god interest rates and petrol prices have come down to help us along but you can be certain they will rise again and nodoubt petrol prices before interest rates and when they do atleast the likes of Toyota and Honda are prepared for an influx of buyers towards alternative fuel powered vehicles again.

Remember, part reason for the the awkward situation GM, Ford and Chrysler find themselves in today has been largely due to thier poor foresight and future product planning.

Initial components for the hybrid system on the Camry will be imported from Japan as Australia currently lacks the expertise in developing hybrid components / systems to Toyota’s standards but they have indentified a number of local companies they will be working with to improve thier excellance so hybrid components for Toyota can eventually be manufactuered here.

In all fairness to Toyota, they deserve respect in the fact they do want to manufactuer hybrid systems in Australia but before that can become possible they need to work inconjuntion with some companies they have indentified to not only assure the expertise but necessary levels of quality control.

It is a good process forward that ultimately will introduce additional expertise to the local car industry so instead of critising for once, maybe it is better to make the effort to understand.

It’s about taking steps forwards and not making a jump to fall into a hole instead because then you can be assured nothing will come of it.

Americans want big cars, they will only go small or economical when they are dragged kicking and screaming to them.

If GM is given a lifeline it will build big cars and SUVs again because to do otherwise would be the end … quicker.

Of course next time petrol goes to $4 a gallon they are screwed again.

needless to say the territory kept more $$$ in the drivers pocket.
(I should say it was a LPG converted/dual fuelled Territory of course)

And on topic,
Isnt it funny how the once declared insane comments about toyota also feeling the pinch too, now have made it to print

Maybe they can focus on a real green alternative, rather than a token for poseurs (sp?)

We do see your point.
Probably McKay won’t but, it’s horses for courses.

Toyota has had a free ride of publicity with the Pre-Arse, hiding the fact that it’s a crap, ugly car,that’s twice the price of a corolla, with only only marginal savings in fuel costs.
And then they’ve copped $35million from Oz to build the hybrid camry, when all it is, will be installing fully imported parts.

These guys must be laughing themselves to death!

Basically, people now seem to be aware that some other car companies are working towards hybrid & electric cars, not just The Big T.

They need to introduce the all new Pre-Arse asap, to keep their momentum up.
The current one has been out for yonks; no wonder sales have dropped off.

No… but hopefully you see my point

Its a question of spending money on a car that’s more expensive less economical god damn ugly or FOOD ON THE TABLE!

Funny how the environment goes out the window when it comes to a down turn in the economy ha!