Toyota Increases Production of 2010 Prius Before It Even Begins Selling

In response to the 40,000 pre-orders on the new 2010 Prius, Toyota has decided to increase production.  Starting in June, Toyota will up the number from 40,000 units per month to 50,000.  Production in fiscal 2009 should hit 500,000 instead of the previous 300,000 worldwide goal. (Nikkei via GCC)

Toyota expects the 40,000 pre-orders to hit 60-70K before the launch date.


It seems the aggressive pricing has hit a nerve.  It also seems that I was right on in talking about why Prius sales have been so far down.  Maybe we're just seeing all the pressure from people holding off just to buy the new Prius as opposed to the old Prius and this pressure will ease shortly after the release date (once they work through the 60,000 pre-orders).  I suppose that will be determined by the economy in another quarter or two.

Honda saw a huge pre-order surge for the Insight, but the more established Prius is getting a fantastic run-up.  It makes you wonder where their competitors are? 

One last question.  I wonder which of the five types of Prius is getting the biggest push?  Is it the cheapest option (no frills or cruise control expected) or are people opting in for all the fun stuff?