Toyota Prius Made in America

Trying to get your hands on a Prius, but haven't had any luck?  There's been very high demand for the high mileage Prius that gets 45 miles on the highway and 48 in the city. But nationwide demand for this fuel-sipper far exceeds the supply.

If you're really aching to get a Prius, there is hope in sight (although it'll still be awhile). The Toyota Motor Corporation announced last week that they have made plans to meet customer demands for the Prius and will start producing it for the first time in the U.S. Production is schedule to begin in 2010 at a plant that is currently under construction in Blue Springs, Mississippi. Toyota said customers can expect the first US-produced Prius cars to roll off the assembly lines within two years. The Prius follows the Camry Hybrid (presently built in Kentucky), as the second Toyota hybrid built in North America. With the opening of the new plant, Toyota is able to respond better to the increased customer demand for fuel efficient hybrids.

While the new plant is good news, we do have to wait a bit longer before the Prius supply pinch is alleviated. With gas prices still rising, you're still thinking about mpg right? Well, in the meantime check out our Unsung Heroes of Fuel Efficiency series every Tuesdays and Thursdays. We'll be featuring vehicles that get outstanding mpg, but are sometimes overlooked. See the list of Unsung Heroes here.

If you have any questions about the Prius including availability speak with the sales team at Checkered Flag Toyota, 5301 Virginia Beach Boulevard, Virginia Beach or call (757) 490-1111.