Greenbacks for Green Ideas | Corporate

Greenbacks for Green Ideas

Toyota Research Institute Announces ECS Toyota Young Investigator Fellowship

December 19, 2014

ANN ARBOR, Mich. (Dec. 19, 2014) – The Toyota Research Institute of North America (TRINA), a division of Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing of North America (TEMA), in partnership with The Electrochemical Society (ECS) is requesting proposals from young professors and scholars pursuing innovative electrochemical research in green energy technology.
 
The purpose of the ECS Toyota Young Investigator Fellowship is to encourage young professors and scholars to pursue research in green energy technology that may promote the development of next-generation vehicles capable of utilizing alternative fuels. Electrochemical research has already informed the development and improvement of innovative batteries, electrocatalysts, photovoltaics and fuel cells. Through this fellowship, ECS and TRINA hope to see further innovative and unconventional technologies borne from electrochemical research.
 
The fellowship will be awarded to a minimum of one candidate annually. Winners will receive a restricted grant of no less than $50,000 to conduct the research outlined in their proposal within one year. Winners will also receive a one-year complimentary ECS membership as well as the opportunity to present and/or publish their research with ECS.
 
“Through this extraordinary partnership between ECS and TRINA,” says ECS Executive Director Roque Calvo, “we hope to see more innovative and unconventional technologies borne from electrochemical research.”
 
Depending on the research progress and the results obtained at the completion of the award period, Toyota may elect to enter into a research agreement with the recipient to continue the work. The recipient must publish their findings in a relevant ECS journal and/or present at an ECS meeting within 24 months of the end of the research period. 
 
The deadline for proposals is January 31st, 2015 with candidate interviews beginning in February 2015. For application guidelines and proposal requirements, visithttp://www.electrochem.org/toyota

2015 Toyota Highlander Captures Kelley Blue Book Best Buy Award

2015 Toyota Highlander Captures Kelley Blue Book Best Buy Award

November 17, 2014

TORRANCE, Calif., Nov. 17, 2014 - - The 2015 Toyota Highlander was named the top Mid-Size SUV/Crossover in the first ever Kelley Blue Book Best Buy Awards.  The awards recognize the top new vehicle choices available in the U.S. market.

In the words of KBB.com's panel of experts, "In a segment filled with excellent alternatives, Toyota’s well-crafted, well-styled and well-sorted Highlander simply does the best job of seamlessly mixing and matching the things that count most into a single, extremely engaging package we deem the standard bearer for its class."

The Kelley Blue Book Best Buy Awards are the culmination of a year-long regimen of expert vehicle evaluation and testing of nearly every new vehicle available in the U.S., along with analysis of a broad swath of vehicle-related data, including vehicle pricing/transaction prices, 5-Year Cost to Own data, consumer reviews and ratings, and vehicle sales/retail information.

For more details, visit: http://www.kbb.com/car-news/all-the-latest/best-buy-awards-midsize-suv-crossover/.

Introducing Toyota's New Fuel Cell Vehicle

Introducing Toyota's New Fuel Cell Vehicle

The Future Has Arrived, and It's Called Mirai

President Akio Toyoda announces name of fuel cell sedan in web video

CEO Jim Lentz announces expansion of Toyota fuel cell infrastructure investment to five-state Northeastern corridor

November 17, 2014

NEWPORT BEACH, Calif., (Nov. 17, 2014) – Akio Toyoda has seen the future, and it’s called “Mirai.” That’s the name of Toyota’s new fuel cell vehicle, which the company’s president announced in a video released the night before the car’s official launch.

Mirai, which means “future” in Japanese, represents a turning point for the automotive industry. The groundbreaking vehicle can travel up to 300 miles on a single tank of hydrogen, refuel in less than five minutes and emits only water vapor.

Expanded Support for New Hydrogen Stations

Of course, the car of the future won’t become a reality without the hydrogen stations to support it. That’s why Toyota North America chief executive officer (CEO) Jim Lentz announced a new commitment to drive the development of a hydrogen refueling infrastructure in five northeastern U.S. states.

To support Mirai’s introduction to the region in 2016, Toyota is collaborating with Air Liquide to develop and supply a phased network of 12 state-of-the-art hydrogen stations targeted for New York, New Jersey, Massachusetts, Connecticut, and Rhode Island. The states and locations have been strategically selected in the greater New York and Boston areas to provide the backbone of a hydrogen highway for the Northeast corridor. Specific details of the collaboration will be revealed in the coming months.

“Toyota’s vision of a hydrogen society is not just about building a great car, but ensuring accessible, reliable and convenient refueling for our customers,” said Jim Lentz. “I am happy to announce that this vision will expand beyond the borders of California and give customers the opportunity to join the fuel cell movement.”

This new announcement builds on Toyota’s previous support for hydrogen infrastructure development in California. In May 2014, Toyota announced a $7.3 million loan to FirstElement Fuels to support the operations and maintenance of 19 hydrogen fueling stations across the state. The commitment augments funding provided by the California Energy Commission, and makes Toyota the only OEM to provide working capital for infrastructure development.

Seventh Series Manufacturer's Title for Toyota

Seventh Series Manufacturer's Title for Toyota

On-Track Success of Tundra Drivers Yields Championship
 

November 03, 2014

FORT WORTH, Texas (Nov. 3, 2014) -- Tundra driver Kyle Busch’s victory in Friday night’s race at Texas Motor Speedway enabled Toyota to clinch its seventh NASCAR Camping World Truck Series (NCWTS) manufacturer’s championship in 11 years participating in the series.
 
Toyota remains the series’ top manufacturer after previously winning last year’s title (2013) and prior to that a record five straight NCWTS manufacturer’s championships from 2006 to 2010.  Overall, this is the 10th time Toyota has earned a NASCAR manufacturer’s trophy since the start of the 2004 season.  Toyota also earned three consecutive NASCAR Nationwide Series (NNS) manufacturer’s crowns from 2008 to 2010.
 
In addition, Tundra racers have collected four driver’s championships.  Todd Bodine claimed a pair of titles in 2006 and 2010, and Johnny Benson collected the 2008 championship trophy.  Last year, Matt Crafton earned his first career NCWTS championship.  This season, Crafton is seeking to become the first-ever back-to-back NCWTS champion, although he’s facing stiff competition from fellow Tundra racers Darrell Wallace Jr. and Johnny Sauter for the driver’s title. 
 
Highlights from the season include Tundra drivers establishing a new series record by winning the first 10 races of the year -- from Daytona in February to Eldora in July -- and a 12-race winning streak dating back to the final two races of 2013. 
 
Three teams fielding Tundras -- Kyle Busch Motorsports (KBM), Red Horse Racing and ThorSport Racing -- all contributed to the NCWTS manufacturer’s title.  This season, Tundra drivers have combined for 16 wins, seven pole positions, 60 top-five results and 108 top-10 finishes -- with two races still remaining on the 2014 schedule.  In addition, Toyota drivers have led 2,197 laps (of 2,830) in NCWTS competition this season -- more than three-quarters of the total laps.
 
“When we began the year with a victory in the debut of the 2014 Tundra in Daytona, we hoped it would be a successful year for our teams and drivers in the series,” said Ed Laukes, TMS vice president of marketing, performance and guest experience.  “So far, it’s been a great season -- 10 straight wins to start the year, most wins in a season, several Tundra racers battling for the driver’s title and now another manufacturer’s championship.  We’re fortunate to partner with championship-caliber race teams and talented drivers that enable our Tundras to prove their excellence on the race track.”
 
Busch has made the most trips to victory lane this season with seven first-place trophies (Daytona, Kansas, Charlotte, Dover, Kentucky, Chicago and Texas) while Wallace has earned three wins this year (St. Louis, Eldora and Martinsville) in a KBM Tundra.  Two Tundra drivers have each recorded a pair of wins this season -- Crafton (Martinsville and Texas) and Erik Jones (Iowa and Las Vegas).  Sauter (Michigan) and Timothy Peters (Talladega) each have one victory in their Tundras this season.
 
Of this year’s 16 Tundra wins, 12 have been by KBM drivers -- Busch, Jones and Wallace -- which matches the most by a team in a single season.  This year, KBM is also looking to earn a third owner’s championship in its fifth year competing in the series.
 
“It has obviously been a great year for Toyota in the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series -- not only does the new 2014 Tundra look great on the track, it’s proven to be really fast and has won a lot of races this season,” said Busch.  “All of the success is a testament to the hard work that everyone at Toyota and Toyota Racing Development has put into the new truck model since the changes were announced last season and the continued support they have provided throughout the 2014 season.”
 
A total of 23 different drivers have participated in the Camping World Truck Series in Tundras this year, including six -- Jeb Burton, Crafton, Peters, German Quiroga, Sauter and Wallace -- who have competed in all 20 events driving Toyotas.
 
The 16 Tundra wins this season is the most victories by Tundra drivers in a single year, surpassing the 15 set in 2010.
 
Since joining NCWTS competition in 2004, Toyota has won 128 races and captured 98 poles in 264 races.  Busch (36) has the most victories driving a Tundra.
 
There are two more races remaining on this year’s NCWTS schedule, including Phoenix International Raceway (Nov. 7) and the season-finale at Homestead-Miami Speedway (Nov. 14).


NASCAR Camping World Truck Series
RACES:  20

STARTS:  209 (23 drivers)

WINS:  16                 
Busch (7) -- Daytona (Feb. 21), Kansas (May 9), Charlotte (May16), Dover (May 30), Kentucky (June 26), Chicagoland (Sept. 13), Texas (Oct. 31); Wallace (3) -- Gateway (June 14), Eldora (July 23), Martinsville (Oct. 25); Crafton (2) -- Martinsville (March 30), Texas (June 6); Jones (2)-- Iowa (July 11), Las Vegas (Sept. 27); Sauter (1) -- Michigan (Aug. 16); Peters (1) -- Talladega (Oct. 18)

TOP-FIVE FINISHES:  60

TOP-10 FINISHES:  108

TIMES LED:  140

LAPS LED:  2,197

POLES:  7                 
Busch (4) -- Kansas (May 9), Charlotte (May 16), Kentucky (June 26), Bristol (Aug. 20); Wallace (2) – Iowa (July 11), Martinsville (Oct. 25); Jones (1) -- Eldora (July 23)

WINS (since 2004):  128

POLES (since 2004):  98

DRIVER’S CHAMPIONSHIPS:    Todd Bodine (2006 and 2010); Johnny Benson (2008); Matt Crafton (2013)

MANUFACTURER CHAMPIONSHIPS:           
2006 (12 wins); 2007 (13 wins); 2008 (13 wins); 2009 (14 wins); 2010 (15 wins); 2013 (13 wins); 2014 (16 wins)
 

2015 Toyota Tacoma TRD PRO Doublecab Pickup 4X4 4.0L Dohc Stock #: 5T40500 Engine: 6cyl Mileage: 3 Trans: 5Spd-Auto VIN #: 5TFLU4EN2FX117009 Actual Color: Inferno MSRP: $38,950 TRD PRO Series 50 State Emissions TRD PRO Package: 16 TRD Alloy Wheels; LT265/70R16 Tires TRD Bilstein Shocks w/Rear Remote Resvr TOYOTA Frnt Grille; TRD Pro Badge TRD Shift Knob; TRD Pro Floor Mats V6 Tow Package for Off-Road Package: Class-IV Towing Receiver Hitch, Transmission Oil Cooler (Automatic Transmission Only), Engine Oil Cooler, 130A Alternator, Heavy Duty Battery, 7-Pin Connector w/Converter, and Trailer Sway Control

A photo posted by Mark Hunter (@markus.hunter) on Oct 10, 2014 at 7:25am PDT

Who Says It's Not Easy Being Green?

Who Says It's Not Easy Being Green?

Toyota Alabama Earns Five Awards for Environmental Excellence
 

October 30, 2014

HUNTSVILLE, Ala. (Oct. 30, 2014) – Not only is Toyota Alabama a global leader in building world-class engines, but it has also become a leader in environmental excellence. The Huntsville plant received recognition for five environmental awards this week, further demonstrating the facility’s commitment to minimize its environmental footprint.   
 
 

• EPA ENERGY STAR Challenge for Industry – reduction of energy use by 14 percent (per unit produced) in one year.

 

• Three Toyota North America Environmental Awards – outstanding performance in energy and water management plus overall environmental improvement unit plant. The reduction in water use is equivalent to 75 million water bottles. The plant has received this award for eight consecutive years.    

 

• City of Huntsville Air Pollution Control Achievement Award – reduction of electric usage by 4.3 gigawatt hours per year (enough to power 400 average households for a year). 

 
The EPA has also recognized Toyota and its 14 vehicle assembly, engine and parts plants across North America – including Toyota Alabama – with its ENERGY STAR Partner of the Year – Sustained Excellence Award for its continued leadership in protecting the environment through superior energy efficiency.
 
It’s Toyota’s 10th consecutive ENERGY STAR Partner of the Year – Sustained Excellence Award and it is the most among any automaker that assembles vehicles in the United States.
 
Over an 11-year period at Toyota’s 14 plants, total cost savings from energy improvements has totaled more than $500 million, and energy use has been reduced by 22 percent per vehicle produced.  That’s enough energy to power 400,000 average households for a year.
 
As one of two model Sustainable Plants in North America, the Alabama plant is implementing two unique projects: rainwater harvesting to use in the manufacturing process and using end-of-life hybrid vehicle batteries to power operations and provide back-up power during emergencies.
 
Another key component of the company’s environmental initiatives is future sustainability. Projects like afforestation and the fact that Toyota Alabama is a zero waste-to-landfill facility are examples of these sustainable actions.
 
“At Toyota we believe that when good ideas are shared, great things can happen. Through continuous improvement and collaborative efforts, we strive to find new ways to reduce the environmental impact of our operations,” said Jim Bolte, Toyota Alabama president. “Our environmental achievements are a result of the ongoing teamwork shown by our outstanding team members.”   

2015 Toyota Camry has arrived!

Vehicle Details
Exterior Color : CREME BRULEE MICA (05B2)
Interior Color : ALMOND (00)
Engine Type : 4
Transmission Type : 6ECTI

Carpet/Trunk Mat Set
Rear Bumper Applique
Wheel Locks

Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert
Convenience Package: Includes Smart Key System on Front Doors and Trunk, Push Button Start, Auto-Dimming Rearview Mirror with Compass and HomeLink Universal Transceiver, and Anti-Theft System with Alarm
Entune Premium Audio with Navigation App Suite: Includes Entune Multimedia Bundle (7-inch High-Resolution Touch-Screen Display, AM/FM CD Player, MP3/WMA Playback Capability, 6 Speakers, Auxillary Audio Jack, USB 2.0 Port With iPod Connectivity and Control, Advanced Voice Recognition, Hands-Free Phone Capability, Phone Book Access and Music Streaming Via Bluetooth Wireless Technology), Entune App Suite, HD Radio, HD Predictive Traffic and Doppler Weather Overlay, AM/FM Cache Radio, and SiriusXM All Access Radio with 3-month Complimentary Trial.
50 State Emissions
Power Tilt/Slide Moonroof
Wireless Charging
Standard Installed Equipments
MECHANICAL & PERFORMANCE
2.5L 4-Cyl DOHC 16V w/ Dual VVT-i Engine
178 hp @ 6000 rpm / 170 lb-ft @ 4100 rpm
6-Speed Automatic ECT-i Transmission
Eco Mode
Pwr-Assist Front/Solid Rear Disc Brakes
SAFETY & CONVENIENCE
Star Safety System: Enhanced Vehicle
Stability Control, Traction Control,
Anti-Lock Brakes, Electronic Brake
Force Distribution, Brake Assist and
Smart Stop Technology
LATCH-Lower Anchor & Tether for CHildren
Whiplash-Injury-Lessening Front Seats
Ten Airbags
EXTERIOR
17 Alloy Wheels w/ Super Chrome Paint
Projector-Beam Headlamps w/ Auto On/Off
LED Daytime Running Lights
Chrome-Tipped Exhaust
Heated Power Outside Mirrors
INTERIOR
Entune Audio Plus, 6.1 Touch-Screen,
SXM All Access 3-mo Complimentary Trial
Leather-Trimmed & Heated Front Seats w/
8-Way Power Driver Seat w/Lumbar Support
4-Way Power Passenger Seat
Leather-Trimmed Steering Wheel with
Audio and Bluetooth Controls
Backup Camera
TFT Multi-Information Display
Tire Pressure Monitor System
60/40 Split Fold-Down Rear Seats
Remote Keyless Entry System
Dual-Zone Auto Climate Control
(2) 12V Power Outlets
(1) USB Port and (1) AUX Jack

Toyota C-HR is a Fun to Drive Hybrid Crossover » AutoGuide.com News

Toyota C-HR is a Fun to Drive Hybrid Crossover » AutoGuide.com News

National Coffee Day!!

Rollin’ with Joe

What comes from beans and offers an aroma more addictive than new car smell? Yes, coffee.

 
It’s National Coffee Day, and we want to honor this pleasing beverage by celebrating the king of all coffee cup holders – the car.
 
What’s the level of “caffeination” one can achieve?  It varies by vehicle. The new Yaris perks along with three cup and two bottle holders. The 2015 Camry gets things brewing with four cup and three bottle holders. The versatile Venza goes venti with a total of 10 beverage holders, four cup, six bottle. 

Not enough macchiatos for you?  The Highlander really stirs it up it up with eight cup and four bottle holders, as does the stylish new 2015 Sienna (LE grade and above), offering its eight occupants a whopping 12 cup/bottle holders.
 
But if you crave carrying as many iced cappuccinos as possible, the Sequoia allows you to fully espresso yourself. The Platinum grade of this grande SUV boasts 18 cup/bottle holders. 
 
So indulge in a demitasse to help commute the daily grind.

Fresh Trade Ins!

2007 Nissan Frontier Se 4WD Stock #: 4T401419B Engine: 6cyl Mile

age: 84,038 Trans: Auto VIN #: 1N6AD06W37C454169 Actual Color: Silver Market Price: $14,500

GM to stop omitting truck-part weights to maximize payload ratings

GM to stop omitting truck-part weights to maximize payload ratings

DETROIT -- General Motors said today that it will no longer omit the weights of some parts when weighing pickups to boost their maximum payload ratings.

Automotive News reported last week that GM and Ford Motor Co. exclude items from some of their pickups, such as the rear bumper or center console, to calculate maximum payload. The resulting figures are higher than would be possible if the automakers used a pickup’s standard base curb weight.

That revelation drew criticism that the automakers were resorting to gamesmanship to one-up each other for bragging rights and marketing claims.

Ford said it excluded items to calculate payloads on just its Super Duty pickups -- the F-250, F-350 and F-450. GM excluded items on its light-duty pickups starting in the 2014 model year. It excluded items in heavy-duty lines starting in the 2015 model year.

“As this story unfolded, we took a look at how the whole industry does this, and almost everybody uses base curb weight,” GM spokesman Tom Wilkinson said. “We thought the best thing to do was line up with the rest of the industry to make those comparisons as easy as possible for consumers.”

For the 2015 Chevrolet Colorado and Silverado 1500 and the GMC Canyon and Sierra 1500, which go into production in the fourth quarter, GM will use “maximum payloads based on base curb weights” in its advertising, catalogs and media materials.

GM also will update already-published specifications for its 2015 heavy-duty pickups to show payload ratings based on their base curb weights. The trucks were launched in January.

GM’s reversal was first reported earlier today by Yahoo Autos.

Ford has said that it deletes the weight of items such as the spare tire, jack, radio and center console to set the payloads only on its Super Duty pickups.

“We have made no changes to the way we determine maximum payload ratings for Ford F-Series Super Duty,” a Ford spokesman said today.

Pickup rivals Ram, Toyota and Nissan rely on standard base curb weights to establish their payload capacities, without subtractions, the automakers have said.

Wilkinson emphasized that automakers' published maximum-payload ratings are for comparison purposes only. Truck owners should refer to the tire and load information label on the door frame, which gives a vehicle-specific rating based on the truck’s options, GM said.

Maximum payload is the weight of all that a pickup carries, including passengers and cargo. When automakers subtract items from a vehicle’s curb weight, that allows them to state a higher maximum payload.

Larry P. Vellequette contributed to this report

Scion Taps Media Partners for 10th SEMA Tuner Challenge | Scion

Scion Taps Media Partners for 10th SEMA Tuner Challenge | Scion

Super Street, GT Channel and Speedhunters Competing Head-to-Head to Modify Scion FR-S

August 11, 2014

TORRANCE, Calif., (Aug. 11, 2014) – They publish about the FR-S and they love the FR-S, but can they tune it? Scion announced today the three media partners that will compete in its 10thannual Scion Tuner Challenge at the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) Show in Las Vegas Nov. 4-7. Super Street, GT Channel and Speedhunters will put their own spins on the stock FR-S vehicles, drawing inspiration from the details of the FR-S Release Series 1.0.

All three outlets have long relationships with Scion and will receive $15,000 to modify the vehicles. Super Street is a magazine dedicated to covering high-performance customized cars and lifestyle. GT Channel is a car video network focused on drifting videos, car racing and new vehicle tests. Speedhunters is an international collective of photographers, writers and drivers with a shared passion for digging up the most exciting stories surrounding car culture happening anywhere in the world. A panel of judges will evaluate the entries and announce the winner at the SEMA Show. First place earns a $10,000 grand prize.

“The FR-S Release Series 1.0 presents a modern take on the vehicle’s racing heritage and will provide our three media teams a creative muse for their own inspired customizations,” said Landy Joe, Scion auto shows and special events manager. “In our 10 years bringing this competition to the SEMA Show, we’ve always been impressed by the ingenuity of car builders there and our Scion fans. By bringing in these three respected partners to help us celebrate this milestone, we hope to get even more people excited about the possibilities.”

The stock FR-S is already a favorite of car enthusiasts and the tuner community. At the start of the competition, each FR-S vehicle will have its 2.0-liter, flat boxer engine, six-speed manual transmission and streamlined body exterior. Each builder team can reach out to aftermarket partners for support as needed.

For more details about the contest, visit www.ScionRacing.com for blog entries, photos and video content. Fans can follow the builds on the Scion Racing Twitter and Instagram using the hashtags #ScionTunerChallenge and #FRSRS1.

Toyota Hybrids Infographic - Animated

Berlin City Vehicle Delivery Program - YouTube

Berlin City Vehicle Delivery Program - YouTube

2015 Tundra TRD Pro Series Set to Get Dirty in SCORE Baja 1000 Race

2015 Tundra TRD Pro Series Set to Get Dirty in SCORE Baja 1000 Race

TORRANCE, Calif. (August 5, 2014) – Toyota Racing Development (TRD) and Toyota Truck Chief Engineer, Mike Sweers, enter the new 2015 Tundra TRD Pro Series in the 47th Tecate SCORE Baja 1000. The lightly modified Tundra Pro Series will compete in the Full Size Stock Class this November 12-16 in Ensenada, Mexico.

“My job is to ensure that the Tundra exceeds the expectations and demands of every single one of its owners,” said Sweers, Chief Engineer of Toyota Pickup Trucks. “With over 1,000 miles of harsh terrain, The Baja 1000 is the ultimate proving grounds for research and development that helps us to continuously improve our trucks.”

For 35 years and counting, TRD has been an integral component in Toyota’s success in the U.S., not only in numerous motorsports racing victories, but in the area of high quality performance parts and accessories. When TRD began developing the 2015 TRD Pro Series, they applied their many years of successful racing experience to make sure it was worthy of wearing the TRD Pro name.
 
“Competing in the Full Size Stock class allows our team to test the Tundra TRD Pro as close to stock as possible and showcase its strength and durability in the Mexican desert’s treacherous terrain,” said Andrew Franceschini, Toyota truck marketing and communications national manager. “Our goal is to finish this grueling race and to showcase just how awesome the new TRD Pro Series trucks are.”
 
TRD Pro Desert Race Team
Team Coach:

Ivan “Ironman” Stewart – Legendary Toyota Off-Road Racer, Off-Road Hall of Fame Member / 22-time SCORE Baja 500 and 1000 Champion / San Diego, CA

Navigator:

Mike Sweers – Chief Engineer of Toyota Trucks / Ann Arbor, MI

Drivers:

Ted Moncure – Toyota Racing Development Design Engineer / SCORE Baja 1000 and 500 class-champion / Torrance, CA
 
Andy Bell – Toyota Athlete / SCORE Baja 500 Champion / Guinness World Record holder Long Beach, CA                      
  
Jamie Bestwick – Toyota Athlete / Professional BMX Vert Rider / 9-time winner X-Games Winner / Port Matilda, PA
 
Ryan Millen – SCORE Baja 1000 and 500 Competitor / Son of off-road legend Rod Millen / San Juan Capistrano, CA   

 
TRD Pro Series
The TRD Pro Series is the most-advanced yet in a long line of TRD packages for Toyota trucks that dates back to 1998 when the first Off-Road package was introduced for Tacoma. Already favorites among serious off-roaders, the 2015 Toyota Tundra, Tacoma and 4Runner will get even more capable with these new, aggressive off-road packages designed by the experts at Toyota Racing Development (TRD). For more details on the TRD Pro Series visit:http://www.toyota.com/upcoming-vehicles/trdpro.html
 

TRD Pro Desert Race Truck Specs
2015 Toyota Tundra TRD Pro Crewmax 4x4 5.7L V8
Item	Manufacturer	Details
Front Shocks	Bilstein	TRD tuned-Blackhawk Bypass
Rear Shocks	Bilstein	TRD tuned-Blackhawk Bypass
Front Springs	Eibach	Coil
Rear Springs	Deaver	Leaf
Tires	BFGoodrich®	37" Baja T/A KR
Wheels	TRD	17" Forged
Brakes	Toyota	TRD Performance Brake Pads
Tube Roll Cage	Herbst/Smith Fabrication	2" .120 Wall Chromoly
Oil Accumulator	Accu-Sump	3 Qt. Capacity
Fuel Cell	Fuel Safe	Custom
Batteries	Optima	Blue Top
Race Seats (Qty. 3)	Mastercraft	3G
Seat Harnesses & Window Nets	Mastercraft	N/A
Front Lights	Hella	HID
A Pillar Lights	Hella	LED Rally 4000
Cold Air Intake	TRD	Custom Cold Air
Exhaust	TRD	Custom Cat-back Exhaust
Control Arms	Toyota	OEM component
Uprights	Toyota	OEM component
Tie Rods	Toyota	OEM component
Wheel Bearings	Toyota	OEM component
Hubs	Toyota	OEM component
Driver GPS/Nav	Lowrance	6"
Navigator GPS/Nav	Lowrance	10"
Race Radio	Kenwood	TK-790H 110 Watts
Intercom	PCI	Comlink 10 Elite

Toyota is No. 1 Retail Manufacturer in July 2014

Toyota is No. 1 Retail Manufacturer in July 2014

TORRANCE, Calif. (August 1, 2014) – Toyota, Scion and Lexus today reported total July 2014 sales results of 215,802 units, an increase of 7.3 percent from July 2013 on a daily selling rate (DSR). On a raw-volume basis, unadjusted for 26 selling days in July 2014 versus 25 selling days in July 2013, sales increased 11.6 percent over the year-ago month.

Toyota division posted July 2014 sales of 188,469 units, up 6.4 percent year-over-year on a DSR basis. Volume-wise, Toyota division sales increased 10.6 percent over July 2013.
 
“Rising consumer confidence, coupled with momentum in the marketplace, boosted auto sales in July,” said Bill Fay, Toyota division group vice president and general manager. “Led by an all-time record month for RAV4 and double-digit gains for both Camry and Corolla, Toyota was the number one retail brand.”
 
Lexus reported July sales of 27,333 units, a 14.1 percent increase on a DSR basis and an 18.7 percent increase on a raw-volume basis, both year-over-year. 
 
“Lexus dealers turned in their best July results ever thanks to some hot products, a nationwide marketing program and the strength of the overall luxury market,” said Jeff Bracken, Lexus group vice president and general manager. “Six of the eight Lexus models posted gains for the month.”
 
Other Highlights:

• Camry up about 15 percent with sales of nearly 40,000 units
• All-new Corolla up 26 percent with sales of almost 31,000 units
• Prius posts sales of 20,675 units
• Toyota light trucks post best-ever July, up over 15 percent
• All-new RAV4 up over 37 percent, posts best-ever month
• All-new Highlander up 4 percent
• 4Runner up 64.5 percent
• All-new Tundra up 5 percent for the month
• Tacoma posts sales of over 13,000 units
• All-new Lexus IS increased about 25 percent
• Lexus ES posts sales of more than 6,000 units
• Lexus GS up over 16 percent
• Lexus luxury utility vehicles up over 23 percent
• Lexus RX up 14.5 percent
• Lexus GX posts triple-digit gains for the ninth month in a row

Special Edition Prius Takes on a New Persona for 2015

Special Edition Prius Takes on a New Persona for 2015

July 30, 2014

TORRANCE, Calif. (July 30, 2014) – The best-selling hybrid in America is taking style to a new level. The 2015 Prius Persona Series Special Edition is tailored with elegant exterior and interior touches that make it unique. The special edition model will begin arriving in dealerships in September.

The Prius Persona Series Special Edition model adds exterior changes and equipment to a Prius Three to create a distinct visual package. Persona Series includes 17-inch alloy wheels with a premium dark metallic finish.  The special edition also comes equipped with premium heated power mirrors with turn signal indicators. The Persona model will be available in two exterior colors, Blizzard Pearl, and for the first time ever on this model, Absolutely Red. A “Persona Series” exterior badge on the rear of the vehicle also helps differentiate the model.
 
The Persona’s interior is trimmed in black SofTex® with gray stitching.  The steering wheel is also trimmed in SofTex® material and includes a dark chrome bezel that complements the new model’s dark chrome shift knob ring and door grips. To add to the luxurious visuals, Persona Series features blue driver and front-passenger foot area illumination. The new Persona Special Edition has a MSRP of $26,985. Blizzard Pearl exterior paint is accompanied by an additional $395 fee. 
 
The MSRP for the 2015 Prius Persona Series Special Edition does not include the delivery, processing, and handling (DPH) fee of $825. The DPH fee for vehicles distributed by Southeast Toyota (SET) and Gulf States Toyota (GST) may vary.

Toyota Releases Pricing for All-New TRD Pro Series Tacoma and 4Runner | Toyota

Toyota Releases Pricing for All-New TRD Pro Series Tacoma and 4Runner | Toyota

Toyota Hydrogen Fuel Cell Electric Vehicle Will be Shown at 2014 Aspen Ideas Festival

Toyota Hydrogen Fuel Cell Electric Vehicle Will be Shown at 2014 Aspen Ideas Festival

Zero emission vehicle part of demonstration of Toyota’s vision for future mobility
 

June 25, 2014

TORRANCE, Calif., (June 25, 2014) – Toyota’s first commercial zero-emission hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicle (FCV) is coming to the 2014 Aspen Ideas Festival. First unveiled in Japan on Wednesday afternoon, the vehicle will make its North American debut at the annual conference on Friday, June 27.
 
In a press conference in Japan, company officials revealed the exterior design of the FCV pre-production prototype. Interior features, along with the vehicle’s name, volume, and full specifications will be released later. Toyota also announced that the FCV will go on sale in the Japan domestic market before April 2015, and then summer 2015 in Europe and the state of California. The sedan will be priced in the Japan domestic market at approximately 7 million yen, or at more than $68,000 based on current exchange rates. Pricing in other markets has not yet been set.
 
“This is a zero-emission electric-drive, mid-size four-door sedan” said Bob Carter, senior vice president of automotive operations for Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A. “It produces sufficient electrical power to spin the electric motor for about 300 miles on a single fill-up which takes three to five minutes.  This is going to be a very special vehicle. And we believe we can bring it in at a very reasonable price for a lot of people.”
 
Today’s announcement builds on Toyota’s existing efforts to provide customers with access to hydrogen refueling stations when the vehicle arrives in California. In May, the company announced a financial relationship with First Element Fuels to support the long-term operation and maintenance of 19 new hydrogen refueling stations across the state.
 
“The success of fuel cell technology will depend less on the genius of the car, than on the ownership experience,” said Carter. “Stay tuned, because this infrastructure thing is going to happen.”
 

Toyota's Fuel Cell Vehicle: Setting the Next Hundred Years in Motion

Toyota's Fuel Cell Vehicle: Setting the Next Hundred Years in Motion

Gone in Sixty Seconds: Americans Take Home a Camry Every Minute in May

Gone in Sixty Seconds: Americans Take Home a Camry Every Minute in May

May Sales Reflect Americans’ Trust in Best-Selling Car

June 09, 2014

TORRANCE, Calif. (June 9, 2014) – On average, Americans drove away in a new Camry every minute in the month of May. Nearly 50,000 owners placed their trust in Camry’s safety, reliability and long-term value.  
 
“There’s a reason Americans choose Camry, and it shows in sales month after month,” said Bob Carter, vice president of automotive operations for Toyota Motor Sales, USA, Inc. “It’s America’s best-selling car, but more important is the one Camry in the customer’s driveway. The one Camry that gets you and your family to work, school, vacation, the Camry that works in a business enterprise, the one Camry you trust to be reliable and help keep your family safe.”
 
Recently, Camry’s quality was affirmed by top honors in the JD Power and Associates IQS and VDS studies. It was also awarded a 5-star safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, was placed on the “Best Midsize Car for the Money” list by US News and World Report and “Most Popular” list by Edmunds.
 
Of the 10.3 million Camrys sold in the U.S. in the last 31 years, more than 6.7 million are still on the road. Today, every Camry sold in North America comes from plants in Indiana and Kentucky, manufactured by more than 7,000 skilled U.S. workers who take pride in every Camry that rolls off the line.
 
Camry May sales of 49,584 units were up over 26 percent, topping its segment by almost 10,000 units. To put it into perspective, Camry has exceeded monthly sales of 50,000 units only four other times in its history.
 
America’s best-selling car will get even better, as the redesigned 2015 Camry comes to market later this year aimed at satisfying thousands, one customer at a time.

About Toyota 
Toyota (NYSE:TM), the world's top automaker and creator of the Prius, is committed to building vehicles for the way people live through our Toyota, Lexus and Scion brands.  Over the past 50 years, we’ve built more than 25 million cars and trucks in North America, where we operate 14 manufacturing plants (10 in the U.S.) and directly employ more than 40,000 people (more than 32,000 in the U.S.).  Our 1,800 North American dealerships (1,500 in the U.S.) sold more than 2.5 million cars and trucks (more than 2.2 million in the U.S.) in 2013 – and about 80 percent of all Toyota vehicles sold over the past 20 years are still on the road today.

Advanced Manufacturing Technician Program Appeals to Students and Addresses Industry Needs

Advanced Manufacturing Technician Program Appeals to Students and Addresses Industry Needs

Program allows students to gain hands-on experience while earning a degree and the ability to graduate debt free

May 23, 2014

HUNTSVILLE, Ala. (May 23, 2014) – Proving that when good ideas are shared, great things can happen, Toyota Motor Manufacturing Alabama has partnered to launch a new, innovative education-to-work initiative with Calhoun Community College to further enhance Alabama’s future work force for years to come.
 
The initiative, called the Advanced Manufacturing Technician (AMT) program, is designed as an innovative manufacturing degree that will span five semesters of classroom instruction while providing paid, hands-on experience at world-class manufacturing facilities. Students will earn enough pay (starting at $13.55 per hour) to cover their educational expenses and the opportunity to graduate debt free. Graduates will hold an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Advanced Manufacturing degree.     
 
The effort includes a collaborative known as the Alabama Federation for Advanced Manufacturing Education (AL FAME) and is designed to partner with area manufacturing companies that are interested in participating in the workforce development initiative.   
 
The goal of the AMT program is to close the gap of unfilled skilled technician jobs in Alabama and across the country. “’Skilled technician’ is currently the #1 unfilled job opening in the U.S. according to the National Association of Manufacturers. As technology increases, so does the need for skilled technicians at our facility. The AMT program will create and maintain a qualified pipeline of skilled technicians by preparing students to be fully job ready for a multi-skilled maintenance position at the end of a two year program,” said Jim Bolte, president of Toyota Alabama. “This not only benefits Toyota, but helps to address the workforce needs of manufacturers regionally.” 
 
Partnering with local community colleges and area manufacturers, Toyota has established AMT programs in 7 states with over 100 current students. This number is likely to double as new students begin the program this year.         
 
Applications for the AMT program are now being accepted. The first group of AMT students   will begin the work portion of the program in June and classes at Calhoun will begin in August. The multi-disciplinary curriculum includes courses in electricity, fluid power, mechanics, fabrication, robotics and problem solving. Students will attend classes two full days a week at Calhoun and work three full days a week at their sponsor company. 
The program will emphasize attendance, initiative, diligence, verbal and written communication, interpersonal skills and professionalism.
 
“Manufacturing companies are seeking employees with the high level of experience and training offered by the AMT program,” said Scott Russo, maintenance manager at Toyota Alabama.  “While not guaranteed a full-time job following graduation, graduates could be hired by their sponsor company, continue their education in engineering, technology or business, or pursue employment opportunities in the open job market.”
 
“Toyota has been a wonderful community partner for many years, and we are so very excited to have the opportunity to work hand-in-hand with the company to educate, train and prepare our students for these very high skilled, high wage advanced manufacturing jobs,” commented Calhoun President Dr. Marilyn Beck.
 
Prospective students must complete an application for admission to Calhoun Community College, as well as the AMT program application. Additional information and application forms are now available at www.calhoun.edu/amt
 
Students will be accepted based on academic success as measured through grades, class rank, math capabilities and the ability to work in a team and problem-solving environment.

The automobile of the future

Toyota Develops ‘Diamond-like’ Computer Chips to Boost Hybrid Mileage

Toyota Develops ‘Diamond-like’ Computer Chips to Boost Hybrid Mileage

May 20, 2014

Toyota City, Japan – Toyota is using one of the hardest materials in nature after diamonds to develop a semiconductor chip it hopes will improve the fuel efficiency of its hybrids, such as the Prius, by as much at 10 percent.

The company and its partners announced today that they have developed a silicon carbide (SiC) power semiconductor for use in automotive power control units. Toyota plans to begin test-driving vehicles with the technology on public roads in Japan within a year.

The chips, made from carbide - one of the hardest materials in nature, theoretically have superior characteristics such as one-tenth the electrical power loss and 10 times the drive frequency. Toyota said the chips would also allow it to reduce the size of current automotive power control units by 80 percent.

The automaker said it has already achieved a 5 percent improvement in fuel efficiency in test vehicles and aims to commercialize the technology by 2020.

The new chips, along with improved engines and aerodynamics, are key steps the company is taking to continue advancing hybrid powertrains, a technology it pioneered nearly 17 years ago.   

For more information on the silicon carbide chips, click here.