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Following years of dwindling demand, the car synonymous with hybrid technology has been pulled from sale.
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After 21 years and four generations, the Toyota Prius hybrid hatchback has been axed from Australian showrooms.
Drive understands no new examples will be imported, and fewer than 10 remain in the national dealer network.
Toyota did not provide a reason for the decision, however poor sales appears to have forced its hand.
VFACTS data reveals just 77 examples were reported as sold in 2021, down from a peak of 3413 in 2008.
Almost 5000 hybrid cars were delivered to Australian buyers last year, with the Prius accounting for just 1.5 per cent.
Over its lifespan 20,847 examples of the Prius have been reported as sold locally, with the vast majority between 2004 and 2010.
The vehicle will continue to be offered in overseas markets for the immediate future, according to Toyota.
Introduced internationally in 1997 – and here in 2001 – the Toyota Prius laid the groundworks for mainstream electrification.
The first-generation model (shown above) claimed 3.6L/100km, at a time when the contemporary Corolla averaged 8.2L/100km.
In 2019 The Telegraph ranked the Toyota Prius 24th on its list of the 100 most influential cars ever built.
While the brand does not yet offer a fully-electric model, in 2021 approximately 30 per cent of its Australian sales were hybrid.
An electric SUV dubbed the BZ4X is slated to arrive here as soon as late 2022.
He has maintained a primary focus on industry trends, autonomous technology, electric vehicle regulations, and local environmental policy.
As the newest addition to the Drive team, William was brought onboard for his attention to detail, writing skills, and strong work ethic.
Despite writing for a diverse range of outlets – including the Australian Financial Review, Robb Report, and Property Observer – since completing his media degree at Macquarie University, William has always had a passion for cars.
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