2011 Honda Insight Launching in Taiwan

The 2011 Honda Insight's new entry-level model, LX

Honda Taiwan Motor Co. is set to launch the Insight Hybrid in a market where Toyota/Lexus hybrids have dominated the landscape. Taiwan will have a subsidy that allows hybrids to be eligible for a 50% reduction in local commodity tax. This reduction helps bring awareness and popularity to hybrids in the region.

Out of the 3 500 hybrids sold in 2010 in Taiwan, more than 60% were Lexus and Toyota hybrids. Honda says the imported Insight will cost around N$999 000 (US $33 300) making it less expensive than the Prius. Local dealers say they are confident that they are able to beat the Prius' yearly sales of 400. Dealers say they already have orders for 100 models and expected a total of 500 models to be on the roads by the end of this year.