IMC launches first locally produced hybrid

Indus Motor Company (IMC) launched the 4th generation Toyota Corolla CrossHybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV) at a private ceremony held at its manufacturing facility in Karachi.

“We want to thank all our stakeholders for their continued support and trust to make this dream of 'Make in Pakistan' come true, which is an ode to localisation. This milestone, no doubt, reflects the deep-rooted friendship between Japan and Pakistan,” IMC Chairman Mohamedali R Habib said.

Ministry of Industries and Production Federal Secretary Asad Rehman Gilani said the government remains committed to supporting the auto sector’s endeavours in introducing hybrid and electric technologies in Pakistan, as outlined in the auto policy 2021-26.

“As we embark on this journey with locally-manufactured hybrid electric vehicles on our roads, let’s keep in mind that the country must expedite exports as it is a vital step towards reducing the trade deficit. And I see no better partner to support this goal than our long-term standing partner, Toyota,” he said.

IMC Chief Executive Officer Ali Asghar Jamali said the newly-launched vehicle offers a 1,800cc engine with the options of a hybrid as well as a gasoline drivetrain, each having low and high-grade variant options.

He said IMC has invested over $100 million to manufacture the first ‘Make in Pakistan’ HEV for local production of the 4th generation Corolla Cross HEV SUV in Pakistan, which boasts the highest-ever localised content achieved in the SUV category. Corolla Cross HEV is all about smooth, high-quality performance and efficiency, while also providing an exciting and comfortable ride.

Read: IMC to launch Corolla Cross hybrid to revive market

“We are proud to introduce the first ‘Make in Pakistan’ HEV model as it is a sure step in Toyota’s commitment to carbon neutrality and promoting the spirit of 'ever better cars' in Pakistan. We stand tall in our commitment to sustainability that reflects not only our technological prowess but also our deep-rooted dedication to Pakistan's progress and prosperity to uplift the overall economy,” he said.

Yoshiyuki Takai, President Emerging-market Compact Car Company (ECC) Toyota Motor Corporation (TMC) & Executive Vice President (EVP), Engineering Group, Toyota Daihatsu Engineering & Manufacturing CO, Ltd (TDEM) said, “Recently, more customers in Asian countries are choosing HEVs. Based on feedback, many HEV customers are satisfied, not only with the excellent fuel efficiency but also with the advanced driving taste of the car. We sincerely hope customers in Pakistan will love this new Corolla Cross HEV as an attractive, efficient, and exhilarating vehicle, like in other markets. Importantly, more HEVs on the road mean greater carbon footprint reduction to be achieved in Pakistan.”

Published in The Express Tribune, December 7^th, 2023.

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