VP Kalla tests first hybrid car in RI

The Jakarta Post , Jakarta | Thu, 09/04/2008 3:49 PM | Business

Vice President Muhammad Jusuf Kalla test drove a popular hybrid car Toyota Prius at the official opening of Toyota's spare parts center in West Cikarang, West Java, on Thursday.

Kompas reported that Toyota Astra Motor director Johnny Dharmawan handed the vehicle over to Kalla at the center's opening ceremony.

Kalla claimed the new vehicle was not for private use and that he would report the gift to the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK).

"It's a test car," Kalla said. "I will report it to the KPK because the car is a gift."

The giveaway, Johnny said, was aimed at introducing the energy saving car in the Indonesian market.

The Prius is a hybrid electric mid-size vehicle developed and manufactured by Toyota, which first went on sale in Japan in 1997, making it the first mass-produced hybrid vehicle.\

The car was subsequently introduced worldwide in 2001, being sold in more than 40 countries and regions, with its largest markets being those of Japan and North America.

In Indonesia, a single Toyota Prius unit is planned to go on sale for Rp 495 million (US$52,100), which is beyond the selling price abroad, namely between Rp 170 and 200 million each. (amr)

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