Inspired by the big success the Prius already has, Toyota might bring more versions next decade. This way the Prius could become a brand of its own with a range of models.

"We are studying that, but I can't say what stage of the study we are in," Kazuo Okamoto, Toyota Motor Corp.'s executive vice president for r&d, said in an interview. "I do think it is a reasonable direction."

Asked about coupes, sedans and wagons, Okamoto said, "Using the Prius platform for various variations is possible." Okamoto alo said: "Prius recognition level is increasing" worldwide, which could result in a wider model line.

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