Toyota May Sell Conventional Prius At A Discount

Published reports in AutoExpress say that Toyota is mulling a discounted price for the existing Prius hybrid when its plug-in cousin goes on sale in Europe next year. The decision would mean that consumers could choose to buy the current design or pony up a bit extra for the plug in version.

Toyota is reportedly feeling pressure as more hybrids enter the market at a reduced price. While the reported discount applies to the European models, Toyota may apply the same strategy to US sales, once the plug-in makes its debut here.

Toyota has denied the report, however the company typically issues a denial regarding its strategic moves. The company has not yet determined pricing for the plug-in model or when the car will be available in either the European or US markets.

The plug-in Prius will need to compete with the Volt when it is released in 2010. Unlike the Volt, which has an all-electric range of about 40 miles, the plug in Prius is rumored to have an all-electric range of about 10 miles.

Photo: Toyota