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Print articleToyota launched the Prius?the world's first mass-produced hybrid vehicle?in Japan in 1997 and began selling it in North America, Europe and elsewhere in 2000.
The second-generation Prius, equipped with the Toyota Hybrid System II, was introduced in 2003 with an emphasis on delivering both environmental performance and power. Over time, Toyota has expanded the use of its hybrid system to minivans, SUVs, rear-wheel-drive sedans and other vehicles. Hybrid vehicles have been enjoying good sales both in Japan and in over 40 countries and regions around the world, particularly North America.
Toyota began overseas production of hybrid vehicles in Changchun, China in 2005 and in Kentucky in the United States in 2006.
According to Toyota ?as of April 30, 2007, worldwide sales of its hybrid vehicles since 1997 have greatly contributed to reductions in CO2 emissions, which are considered a cause of global warming, by producing approximately 3.5 million fewer tons of CO2 compared with the same class gasoline-powered vehicles of similar size and driving performance.?
However, according to the Advertising Standards Authority (ASA), Toyota's recent advertising campaign in the UK ?misleadingly exaggerated the environmental benefits of the car? with regards to the claim ?it emits up to one tonne less CO2 per year?.
The ASA noticed that the advert compared the Prius with ?an equivalent family vehicle with a diesel engine?, but the datasheet Toyota sent to the ASA was for diesel AND petrol. Additionally, the amount of CO2 emissions, calculated by Toyota, was based on an average 20,000km per annum, which is the average in the United States. In the UK, the average is 13,440km.
The ASA has ordered that the advert ?should not be broadcast again in the same form.?
