A base plug-in Prius hybrid for under $27,000?

The Toyota Prius plug-in hybrid could start for less than $27,000 based on the latest reports whent he plug-in hybrid hits dealerships in early 2012.

20,000 sales for 2012?

Plug-in Prius ready to launch in early 2012

As the Toyota Prius plug-in hybrid heads towards its early 2012 launch, Toyota is claiming that the company should sell at least 16,000 – 17,000 plug-ins the first year. However, Toyota will “deliver to whatever level the market wants.”

More interesting news; however, is the plug-in Prius pricing story.

Bloomberg reports, “Toyota expects the plug-in Prius to sell for $3,000 to $5,000 more than a standard version, which starts at $23,520, said Jana Hartline, a company spokeswoman.”

Of course, Toyota might add a number of high tech amenities that will drive up the price of a base plug-in Prius, a common practice in the alternative vehicle market.

Still, if the plug-in Prius could reach the market priced at $26,520, it could be a big hit in places like California. The plug-in Prius should qualify for at least a $2500 federal tax credit, as well as a $1500 California rebate. Combined, the two incentives could make a plug-in Prius cheaper than a conventional Prius — if only priced at an additional $3000.

The 2012 Nissan Leaf will start at $35,200, while the 2012 Chevy Volt‘s base price will be $40,280, although both qualify for a $7500 federal tax credit and the Leaf also qualifies for a $2500 California rebate.

Toyota also notes the smaller battery pack in the Prius doesn’t require homeowners to upgrade to a 240 volt charger, which costs $2000 and possibly more if new wiring is needed. Using a standard 110 volt outlet, the plug-in Prius achieves a full charge in 3 hours, although a 240 volt chargers cuts that time in half.

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