NUMMI dumps unpopular Prizm for younger Vibe.(New United Motor Manufacturing Inc.)(Brief Article)(Statistical Data Included)

As automobile manufacturers idle plants across the country, New United Motor Manufacturing Inc. in Fremont is finding itself riding an upswing.

Officials for the Fremont-based facility, a joint venture operated by Toyota Motor Corp. and General Motors Corp., are adding staff in preparation for a new model that will be introduced next year. The Vibe will be launched in January and marketed to young drivers.

"This new car is an example of the strong relationship between Toyota and GM," said NUMMI spokesman Jean-Yves Jault. GM will market the car under its Pontiac brand in the United States while Toyota will market and sell the vehicle in Japan.

The …