Toyota Supra dropped from production plans, hybrid Venza and Sienna in the works

While GM is pushing forward with lithium-ion battery technology, Toyota will play it safe and move forward with nickel-metal hydride battery powered hybrids. Lithium-ion will come into play after the next-generation Prius makes its debut. A plug-in version of the Prius powered by lithium-ion batteries is expected in mid-2010.

According to Automotive News, the Toyota Sienna and the new Venza crossover are next on the list to get hybrid systems. Both hybrid models will arrive in 2012. 2012 will also be a big year for other models in the Toyota lineup.

A redesign of the Yaris, Camry, Avalon, RAV4 and a new rear-wheel-drive sports coupe will all arrive in 2012. In 2013, we’ll see a redesign of the Corolla and Matrix.

However we have some horrible news for you. If Automotive News is to be believed – and they mostly always are – the Supra has been dropped from Toyota’s production plans due to high mpg requirements.

Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required)