The anticipation in Pakistan's automotive market is palpable as the launch of the locally assembled
Toyota Corolla Cross, a groundbreaking crossover SUV, is imminent. The Indus Motor Company (IMC), a major player in the Pakistani automobile sector, has made a substantial investment of $100 million in advancing hybrid vehicle technology within the country. The Corolla Cross stands as the flagship product of this strategic initiative, heralding a new era of eco-friendly and technologically advanced vehicles in Pakistan.
Unveiling The Future to PM
A pivotal moment in this journey occurred in June 2023 when a distinguished delegation from the Indus Motor Company, led by Vice Chairman Shinji Yanagi and Chief Executive Ali Asghar Jamali, had the honor of presenting the first locally manufactured Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV) to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. The significance of this occasion was further underscored by the presence of Toyota Asia President, Yoshiki Konishi, who is also the chief designer of the Corolla Cross.
During the meeting, Prime Minister Sharif lauded the IMC's visionary initiative in producing Pakistan's maiden locally manufactured hybrid HEV SUV. He emphasized the importance of intensifying localization efforts for vehicles within the country, while also expressing his commitment to sustaining the HEV incentives outlined in the Auto Policy 2021-2026. The Federal Finance Minister, Ishaq Dar, echoed this sentiment, highlighting how the introduction of this innovative product would not only bolster the nation's economy but also contribute significantly to environmental preservation.
Expected Launch of Corolla Cross
Initial expectations had set the stage for a June-July 2023 launch. However, the prevailing economic circumstances have led to a slight delay. Our well-placed sources now indicate a prospective launch window for the locally assembled
Corolla Cross in either December 2023 or January 2024. It is important to note that a stable economic environment is pivotal for this highly anticipated launch. The economic fluctuations and uncertainties that have marked the recent period have impacted various industries, including automobile manufacturing, over the past year.
The automobile sector remains optimistic, eagerly anticipating a positive shift in the prevailing situation that will ultimately restore normalcy to operations. As Pakistan navigates through these economic challenges, the impending launch of the locally assembled Toyota Corolla Cross stands as a beacon of hope, promising a fusion of technological excellence, environmental consciousness, and driving pleasure.
The impending launch of the locally assembled Toyota Corolla Cross carries immense significance for Pakistan's automotive landscape. Beyond being a mere vehicle, it symbolizes a stride toward innovation, sustainability, and progress. As the nation awaits this historic moment, the partnership between Indus Motor Company and
Toyota continues to pave the way for a brighter, greener automotive future in Pakistan.