Toyota’s Thailand arm is lobbying the government for hybrid tax incentives. The nation’s biggest automaker is
hoping authorities will incentivize its Dual Synergy Drive hybrids with engines larger than 3.0-liters.
For its part, the Thai government already allots a 10-percent excise tax on sub 3.0-liter hybrids, but the cars
remain unpopular, in part due to huge import tariffs (reportedly in excess of 80 percent!). However, the country has
recently signed a number of free trade agreements that will go a long way towards leveling the playing field as early
as next year.
That said, Toyota’s request appears unlikely to be granted, as it is reportedly against government policy to
encourage the use of larger vehicles that demand more resources.
[Sources: ThaiDay; Lexus]