TOKYO — Toyota is getting into the minicar market. The company said Tuesday it would expand its product line to include minivehicles made by subsidiary Daihatsu starting in stages from autumn 2011 in Japan.
Under the agreement, Daihatsu will produce three models for Toyota, which will sell them through its domestic “Corolla” and “Netz” dealerships. The companies said they expect annual sales of about 60,000 minivehicles once all three models hit showrooms.
Minivehicles are defined by specifications unique to Japan: maximum length of 11.15 feet, width of 4.86 feet, height of 6.56 feet and engine displacement of less than 660 cc. The category is popular in Japan for its money-saving potential, including lower fuel costs and taxes. The Associated Press
