Toyota to introduce a new hybrid model at GIIAS 2023 - Could it be the Toyota Veloz Hybrid?
CY Foong · Jul 5, 2023 02:25 PM
0
0
As Toyota engages electrification mode in Indonesia by introducing hybrid versions of the Toyota Innova Zenix and Toyota Yaris Cross, there is speculation that the next hybrid model to debut in the archipelago is the Toyota Veloz Hybrid.
This isn’t exactly new as it has already been hinted that the Veloz will have a hybrid version. “We have three (Indonesian-developed) projects – Innova Zenix, Yaris Cross, and Veloz. Two of those models have been launched with a hybrid variant,” Bob Azam, PT Toyota Motor Manufacturing Indonesia’s (TMMIN) Director of External Relations revealed some time ago.
Our colleagues over at AutoFun ID spoke to PT Toyota Astra Motor’s (TAM) Marketing Director, Anton Jimmi Suwandy on when will the Veloz Hybrid be launched. “There will be another hybrid model launching this year but all will be revealed at GIIAS or close to its date,” he responded.
The 2023 Gaikindo Indonesia International Auto Show will take place from 10- to 20-August 2023 but Anton didn’t state explicitly that the upcoming hybrid model will be the Veloz Hybrid. “There is a timeline for the model but we’re still discussing the specs and details,” he continued.
Yaris Cross Hybrid shown
When pressed further on whether this upcoming hybrid will be in the LMPV category which is a segment the Veloz falls under, Anton remained mostly tight-lipped. However, he hinted that the Veloz Hybrid could share the same battery and powertrains as the Yaris Cross Hybrid.
“We chose a lithium-ion type battery on the Yaris Cross Hybrid as it is smaller and more compact which is suitable for everyday use,” Anton explained. “Meanwhile, the Innova Zenix Hybrid uses a different battery that is more suited for heavier use.”
Still, there is one piece of information that Anton is willing to share with AutoFun ID on Toyota’s upcoming hybrid model – the price. He told our Indo colleagues that the upcoming hybrid model could be priced around IDR 300 million (~RM 93k).
“The sub-IDR 300 million car segment has the largest market share in Indonesia so it should be fully supported by the government whether through incentives or other means,” he explained. “If the entry-level market shifts more towards electrification, it would be a huge benefit for the environment to create natural sustainability.”
The Toyota Yaris Cross Hybrid starts from IDR 440.6 million (~RM 136k) which would make this upcoming model the cheapest Toyota hybrid on sale in Indonesia. Prices for the Toyota Veloz meanwhile range between IDR 288.7 million to IDR 335.3 million (~RM 89k-104k).
Traded advertising for a career that fits his passion for cars. Enjoys spotting cars during his free time and has a soft spot for Japanese Kei cars but drives a thirsty manual sedan.
