Toyota plans to strengthen its presence in Europe’s light commercial vehicle segment – and it may do so with the help of a partner.
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The Hiace was a contender in western Europe’s light commercial vehicle segment five years ago but last year the carmaker sold 15,354 units, a drop of 32% compared with 2000, Automotive News Europe reported.
Toyota has fallen behind its competition because it doesn’t offer as many options and variants as rivals. But with its new-car sales at a record level in Europe, the world’s second largest carmaker is ready to focus more attention on light commercial vehicles.
“You can expect us to come back,” a Toyota Motor Europe source said, “but I cannot tell you when.”
When asked whether Toyota would joint venture, the source said: “I would not exclude that option.”
