Toyota has announced it will boost production of Etios models at its Sorocaba plant in Brazil from 74,000 units to 108,000 units a year, accounting for an increase of about 50 percent.
The decision has been taken so that the company can meet increased demand for the Etios low cost vehicle series in Brazil, with the production boost scheduled to come into effect at the beginning of 2016. Toyota said it will invest around 100 million Brazilian real ($36.5 million) to increase production at the plant located near the city of São Paulo.
When the Toyota Etios launched in Brazil in September 2012, sales ranged between 2,000 and 3,000 units each month. However, following customer-suggested improvements such as the addition of new seat upholstery and seat height adjusters, as well as the launch of the Etios Cross in November 2013, monthly sales have increased between 6,000 and 7,000 units.
“This expansion of Etios production at our Sorocaba Plant is a result of always listening carefully to customer feedback to produce ever-better cars. In that respect, I feel that the Etios series is one that has been raised and nurtured by Brazilian consumers,” said Koji Kondo, president of Toyota do Brasil LTDA.
The Toyota Etios lineup includes hatchback, sedan and Cross versions, all powered by a 96hp 1.5-liter engine mated to a five-speed manual gearbox that drives the front wheels.
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