Toyota has put on hold the India launch of world's first mass-produced hybrid vehicle, Prius. Company officials cited factors including infrastructure issues and price competition for the delay.

Honda has recently slashed the price of its Civic hybrid by Rs 8.14 lakh. This move of the Toyota's rival may have also played a role in the launch delay of Prius. Toyota initially was to price the car at Rs 20-22 lakh when launched in India. Prius' competitor, Civic hybrid, is currently priced at Rs 13.36 lakh.

Honda and Toyota are the top manufacturers of hybrid vehicles in the world, and Toyota Prius is the market leader. The hybrid cars use petrol engine and as well as electric motor and are fuel-efficient. They are also environment-friendly as they have lower emission levels.

Prius first went on sale in 1997 in Japan and is currently sold in over 40 countries. Its largest markets are Japan and North America.