Avis Budget Group Inc., the third largest rental-car company in the U.S., today announced that they will begin offering Toyota Prius hybrid vehicles to customers, starting as early as next week. Avis plans to establish a fleet of at least 1000 Prius hybrids, and rent the vehicles for $69.95 a day, depending on location and time of year.

 "Our customers tell us they are really interested in owning hybrids, but they want to try them out first," said John Barrows, a company spokesman. "The bulk of the demand will come from people who are curious to try them."