4th generation coming 2015!

So what is the consensus / opinion of why Toyota is ending production of PIP?

I suspect the next generation is significantly better that they would be thinking it is unfair to continue current PIP as-is.

Another possibility is that the next generation PIP is not going to look like the HSD Prius Gen 4 -or- it is not going to be called the Plugin Prius. Did I hear someone say NS4 Gen 1

More speculation of course.

 

Who said they were ending production of the PIP? I haven't seen that anywhere. What I have seen is the PIP will continue to use the current vehicle design rather than the G4 design, at least for now. It may be the new design doesn't have enough room for the batteries, or the ability to handle the weight of the batteries. Or they may just be giving themselves more time to properly integrate the components into the new design "properly", allowing, for example, an actual spare tyre, or maybe even good luggage space.

 

Prius Plug-in Hybrid Update | PriusChat

Don't forget to read the follow-up post #30.

 

i'll be shocked if theres room for a spare, it's just not where the industry is headed.

 

a rose, by any other name, still smells as sweet.

 

Toyota is going to have to do some serious "mind blowing" with the next gen Prius. Competition is getting tough.

2016 Volt will be 25k in CA (with state and fed incentives)
2016 Chevrolet Volt Priced From $33,995, Or $1,175 Lower Than 2015 Volt

 

or could drop out altogether and still be the world leading car builder.

 

What's great is that Chevy a little more room for a 5th person in the back (yes, a little weak though and still not as spacious as the Prius) - BUT...is 2nd gen, has about 12 miles more EV (50, probably +- 10 depending on how you drive) and updated electronics...and it's freakin less price than the predecessor and even less expensive 6 year old technology in the Prius (cheaper than a 2nd model after incentives and definitely cheaper than a PiP).

Say What? Where is Toyota - I hope they make good on their promise that TNGA is cheaper...

 

all true, but it still won't affect prius sales.

 

Toyota better exploit that tax incentive to be more competitive!

 

The competition is other traditional vehicles from the same automaker. Misunderstanding audience was the lesson learned from the first generation Volt. Conquest sales are not business-sustaining, especially when they depend heavily upon tax-credits.

Volt competition is Malibu, Impala, Cruze, and Equinox. Those are what steal away GM's own customers.

For Toyota, the next-gen Prius must be made appealing enough to compete directly with Camry & Corolla... which is a major undertaking.

 

imposible. if it weren't for tax incentives and cali nov stickers, it would be laughable.

 

Volt costs are down to what, $33.9k or so before incentives? Whereas in the beginning it started at $40k or so. Highest Prius model may be around $30-$32k. So already...before incentives you're getting a pretty good Hybrid and a good EV wrapped into one. No range anxiety and still high EV range.

 

absolutely, great car. just not for 99.99999999% of drivers.

 

Some people view Gooberment Motors vehicles with disdain, others of us just don't "trust them" or their 'diminishing' warranty.

 

They earned it (said disdain). The nonstop recalls don't help.

 

Look to dependable Ford if you don;t like recalls LOL

 

Or even Toyota.
Everybody has had recalls.

 

That's true indeed, especially now. Ford's have been extremely obnoxious, to the point where a neighbor here parked his Escape at the dealer, leaving them instructions to either sell it, and/or keep the recalls up to date. LOL He later bought a used car there, Not a Ford.

Ford's been somewhat protected the last several years, and Toyota pillared. I've spent so little time on Toyota warranties, sometimes I forget what they were, car mats aside Many of Ford's have been in the Escape Now and GET OUT!!!! variety. It's easier done that said, since I hear Ford's doors are easier to open than ever.

 

Speaking of Ford...where's their hutzpah. They are bound to announce something besides the Bolt Competitor...I'm guessing better Plugin Hybrid?