Small Badge Will Set Toyota's Hybrids Apart

Washington DC July 25, 2005; The AIADA newsletter reported that based on a new belief that hybrid owners want others to know they are environmentally conscious, Toyota will plan for more prominent emblems on its gas-electric SUVs, according to USA Today.

Since hybrid versions of the Toyota Highlander and Lexus RX400h joined the popular Prius hybrid on the market, customer wants have changed. While the vehicles were being developed, customer feedback showed that hybrid buyers did not want their vehicles to stand out from the rest. According to Lexus spokesman Bill Ussery, owners are now stating they would like their hybrids to be more noticeable. “

We are now evaluating alternatives to the current rear tailgate badging,” said Ussery. At present, the only differentiating item on the Lexus hybrid is the “h” denoting hybrid. For the hybrid Highlander, a tiny plate that reads "Hybrid Synergy Drive" is its only marker.