TOKYO (AP) -- Toyota Motor Corp. says it will delay the launch of the Prius hybrid minivan in Japan due to disruptions in parts supply following the March 11 earthquake and tsunami.
Toyota spokesman Paul Nolasco said Wednesday the world's No. 1 automaker initially planned to roll out the Prius minivan in April. But the disaster in northern Japan crippled supply chains and destroyed shops, forcing Toyota to postpone the launch.
Since March 14, Toyota has halted auto production because of difficulty securing components, including rubber parts and electronics. The company said it will suspend output until Sunday -- a production loss of 140,000 cars.