I am in the process of trying to find an e-hybrid and have been working with my local dealer to locate something that has my specs. There is a model locally that is pretty close but I think it has been sitting on the lot for nearly a year (I remember seeing it summer 2018). Is there a way to tell the build date from the VIN? Thank you!

 

Try vinanalytics.com
It usually has the build date up top..

 

 

FWIW, I very recently purchased a still-new 2018 PTT ST that'd been on the lot since October of 2017 (!!), but moved regularly and well cared for by the dealership. I got a SMOKIN deal on it. Point being, I wouldn't let that scare you off necessarily. It may play into your favor in the negotiations.