The Toyota Prius and its family of hybrids are some of the most popular gasoline-electric models on the market today. How do we know? Well, apart from the sheer numbers found in sales reports, company officials have boosted their 2012 sales goal simply based off of Prius demand.

More specifically, the automaker has raised its target to 8.58-million vehicles sold by the end of the year. This number represents a 21-percent annual increase as well as a total of 100,000 units higher than the company's original 2012 predictions. Satoru Takada, a Tokyo-based auto analyst, says, "With the earthquake and flooding gone, Toyota's sales will rebound in all of its markets."¹

In particular, Toyota expects to do extremely well with its new Toyota Prius Aqua. Known in the United States as the Toyota Prius c, the Japan-based Aqua has already received about 100,000 orders thanks to its innovative design and advanced hybrid technology. Of course, a few government incentives won't hurt sales either. In an effort to significantly reduce the country's CO² output, the Japanese government is offering tax cuts and rebates for consumers driving low-emission vehicles.

While the Prius family and other hybrids certainly make up the bulk of Toyota eco-friendly options, most gas-only new Toyota vehicles are extremely efficient as well. Take for example, the ever-popular 2012 Toyota Camry. With a 25/35/28 city/highway/combined fuel-economy rating, the Camry saves you money at the gas pump while also reducing the amount of impact your driving has on the environment.

As Toyota moves towards its fiscal goal over the next 12 months, feel free to follow along by checking in with our Fred Anderson Toyota blog. You can also ask specific questions in person or test drive any of the aforementioned models at our convenient 9101 Glenwood Avenue Raleigh, NC 27617 location.

Source: ¹http://www.businessweek.com/news/2012-01-25/toyota-2012-sales-goal-gets-lift-from-accelerating-prius-demand.html