The Prius That Shook.. - VFAQ Prius Site

channels were to carry exclusive models. They were expected
to hammer out sales promotion plans to emphasize their
individuality and to operate without depending on sales
incentive payments from the manufacturer that came to
subsidize dealers' profit.
The discussion to decide the sales channel for Prius took
place at the height of the sales division reform efforts. Since
Prius was the first hybrid vehicle in the world, the channel
selected to sell Prius would receive a lot of attention from the
public. On the other hand, service mechanics at dealerships
would face significant difficulty from having to service
unprecedented high-voltage electric systems.
From the standard point of vehicle size, Corolla Channel
or Auto Channel would be suitable. From its uniqueness,
Vista Channel would be a good choice. However, these
channels seemed to lack sufficient service and sales structure.
Through overall evaluation, Toyota Channel was selected
due to its seniority and superior experience in service and
sales.
If Toyota Channel received such an exclusive privilege,
the other four channels would be unsatisfied. Each of the
four insisted on joint sales by two or more channels. Each
had its point. However, supply of Prius would be limited,
since monthly production was estimated to be 1,000
units. Toyota Channel alone had more than 1,000 stores.
After several discussions, all agreed to settle on Toyota
Channel's exclusive sales.
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