Toyota Prius, Honda Insight supplies and deals disappearing
Insight and Prius hybrids already facing shortages in some markets.
Other hybrids and fuel efficient models also facing shortages
In recent weeks, higher gas prices – almost $4.00 on average in California – have resulted in a significant increase in Toyota Prius demand in many Southern California dealerships, with some already facing shortages.
However, now that auto production has been shutdown in Japan, supplies of the Prius, the Honda Insight and a number of other hybrids and fuel efficient models are declining. And the problem is primed to worsen.
While many are hoping that the Japanese production shutdown will only last a few weeks, some are beginning to suggest that the crisis could last months. That could lead to significant hybrid shortages.
If you’re in the market for a new hybrid, now might be the best time to buy – at least through the summer driving season.
Source: DetroitNews
I haven’t heard yet, but Ford has seemed unwilling to pump up capacity in the past, such as in the 2008 runup. Unfortunately, I don’t expect Ford to fill in much of the gap.
So, will Ford take the opportunity to pump up their hybrid capacity? Do they have the only plants outside of Japan manufacturing hybrid drivetrains?