Toyota Brand Launches in South Korea

Tokyo ― TOYOTA MOTOR CORPORATION (TMC) announces that sales of Toyota-brand vehicles began today in South Korea at five new dealerships, including three in Seoul, established by TMC's local distributor Toyota Motor Korea Co., Ltd. (TMKR).

Now available are the third-generation "Prius" gasoline-electric hybrid midsize vehicle, the "Camry" and "Camry Hybrid" midsize sedans and the "RAV4" crossover SUV. TMC has set an initial combined monthly sales target of 500 vehicles and aims to increase that number to 700 vehicles beginning in 2010.

At a press conference today in Seoul, TMC Executive Vice President Yukitoshi Funo said: "The introduction of the Toyota brand into South Korea is aimed to meet the diversifying needs of consumers in this growing market. We intend to make every effort to contribute to South Korean society and earn a loyal following."

To mark the launch, TMKR plans a series of social contribution activities including traffic safety workshops for elementary school students beginning in 2010.