Since the RAV4 hybrid was launched it has been in demand and delivery times have stretched out to many months which has frustrated fleet customers.
Just before Anzac Day, Toyota announced that is had secured additional supply from the factory in Japan for the RAV4 hybrid with the increased volume arriving in the second half of 2020.
With no suitable wagon option available for fleets the RAV4 hybrid has become popular with FMCG and other businesses that require their drivers to carry merchandise or POS displays. Instant torque from the hybrid powertrain and a great driving position make it perfect for road warriors that spend all day behind the wheel. And Fleet Managers love it because of the lower fuel consumption and strong resale.
The incremental supply is expected to result in an extra 8,000 RAV4 Hybrids arriving in local dealerships from July – on top of the existing planned supply – with specific volumes being confirmed monthly. Another fleet favourite, the Camry Hybrid, will see an increase in supply over the same period.
Toyota Australia Vice President Sales and Marketing Sean Hanley said the significant injection of additional hybrids had been negotiated to substantially reduce wait times for local customers.
“Demand for hybrids, particularly RAV4, has skyrocketed over the past year due to their combination of performance and economy, but that has unfortunately meant some customers have faced extended delays in receiving their vehicles,” Mr Hanley said.
“We appreciate the support of our parent company in helping us to address this issue by agreeing to provide us with more hybrids to help us better serve our customers – and we thank affected customers for their patience and loyalty,” he said.
The current-generation RAV4, launched in May last year, has won multiple awards and is now Australia’s best-selling SUV. Toyota’s electrified hybrids represent almost one-quarter of the brand’s sales so far this year, led by RAV4.
