Toyota Fans Blog

Toyota denies Tacoma is on the blink

2008-06-10T23:29:00.000-07:00

Several from 431 customers around the countries complained and have reported that their Toyota Tacoma pickups are unintended or sudden acceleration resulting in 51 crashes and 12 injuries, but the automaker said there are no flaws in the trucks and that many of the reports filed were "inspired by publicity." Toyota is denying claims.

About 775,000 tacoma pickups are being sold between 2004 and 2008 model years. The NHTSA is still weighing whether to upgrade the investigation launched in February. That probe was spurred by a Tacoma owner who noted 32 complaints to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration over acceleration problems. If officials can find a defect a deeper investigation could force Toyota to recall the trucks and raise questions about sudden-acceleration claims that safety regulators and automakers have blamed on driver error for years. It could also address why no pickup model other than the Tacoma has garnered more than a few complaints of unexpected acceleration to the NHTSA during the same period. And if problems are found from further official investigation, Toyota could be forced to recall the pickup. Toyota is saying that most of the claims it received that dealt with engine speed changes have resulted in no defects or minor speed changes that have no relation to safety. The company also said that ‘extensive media coverage’ on the matted could explain why no other Tacoma that it had tested had similar issues.

Yet the NHTSA typically ends probes that don't uncover a clear fault in vehicles, and has previously ruled that without such evidence, driver error is an inescapable conclusion. And now to put in some hard work on the production version, Toyota is offering to buy back over 800,000 Tacomas built between 1996 and 2000 with rusted frames that are beyond repair.

Clean diesel V8s for Tundra and Sequoia

2008-05-31T00:20:00.000-07:00

The partnership of Toyota and Isuzu announced to build diesel engines, last year. At the 2008 Detroit Auto Show in January, Katsuaki Watanabe, Toyota President told the reporters; "A new clean-diesel V8 engine will be offered in both the Tundra and the Sequoia in the near future."

Tundra pickup and Sequoia SUV A4.5 liter unit is expected to enter production and hit the market for the 2010 model. Toyota is working on a family of clean diesel V8 engines for both vehicles. And also Toyota will offer a new version of its existing 4.7 liter V8 E85 ethanol engine as well.

According to the sources of Inside Line, Toyota engineers have been working on at least two variations of the new clean-diesel engine, including the 4.5-liter unit and a larger 7.0-liter V8 that would dwarf the company's 5.7-liter gasoline V8. And also, Industry sources said that Toyota is working on at least two variants of the clean diesel V8 including the 4.5 liter unit and a larger 7.0 liter V8. The 7.0 liter V8 diesel will be fitted in the heavy-duty edition of the Tundra which is expected to enter production in 2011 or early 2012.

The northern neighbors are expected to get a 4.5 liter V8 diesel in the 2009 Land Cruiser, as reported. The Land Cruiser engine is expected to produce 280-hp and 520 lb-ft of torque and returns a combined fuel-economy of 22.4mpg. As of right now that engine does not meet Tier 2 Bin 5 standards and that a cleaner version of that engine will arrive on the stateside later next year, sources said. And we're guessing what's InsideLine is talking about.

Source: InsideLine

Toyota desires To Export SUVs, From America

2008-05-20T19:04:00.000-07:00

After years of constructing U.S. factory to manufacture Toyotas for American buyers, details in Japan at present say the huge car manufacturer will soon export automobiles from the U.S. to the Middle East.

It looks like a bit odd, but Toyota Motor Corporation is an American automobile exporter. It has been distributing U.S. made Avalon vehicles to the Middle East for a year. And at this time, according to the Autoblog that it will begin delivering Sienna minivans plus huge, American-based Sequoia SUV’s to the Middle East also.

Undoubtedly, this appears good rumor to Toyota's American staff. Not like the rivals Ford Motor Company, General Motors Corporation as well as Chrysler, Toyota Motors keep away from laying off workers, although it has slowed manufacture in recent months. By means of the latest export idea, production is being improved at its modern factory in Indiana, Princeton. For me that's a little bit inspiring, set that the American familial vehicle market will probably slowed by a million vehicles this day.

The selling of Sequoias to the Middle East would possibly starts this year, with better plans and tactics afoot for selling of the slighter Sienna minivans, (power-driven by engines, loaded with 3.5 liters) to China along with different nation states near the beginning of 2010. The Indiana factory produces the Sienna. Presently, every Toyota automobiles created in the U.S. are intended for the North American place only, with the exemption of the Avalon production, which is previously bring up to the Middle East.

Japan's Toyota to hike prices

2008-05-12T01:28:00.000-07:00

Japanese auto manufacturer Toyota Motor Corporation will increase transaction prices in North America this month in a proposal to equalize rising production rates and the higher yen, reported at Tokyo (AFP) last Sunday.

The Japanese manufacturer has extended insistently outside its home market, by means of its name for being a fuel-efficient vehicle, counting also the petrol-electric models, which have created much more interest at a time of oil prices increase.

Toyota Corporation said that a 28% fall-down in quarterly profit at present. The Japanese auto manufacturer has maneuvered clear of the automobile industry's dilemma so far. Accordng to reports of Stacey Vanek-Smith from marketplace.com, Toyota will hike the prices on some well-known models such as Camry and Yaris.

But Toyota isn't invulnerable to the industry's troubles says the Chairman of the Center for Automotive Research named David Cole. He said that even Toyota is in fact experiencing a crunch, partially for the reason of the softening market in this place, but they've been beat very hard by the making the yen stronger for the Japanese. Also, Pam Murtaugh speaks that commodities costs have made parts and materials pricier, and the weak dollar has squeezed earnings.

Cole proclaims that latest technology and firmer fuel-efficiency necessities could also a possible deal to the prices to increase.

Toyota Corporation is projected this year to exceed General Motors as the globe's top car-producer but is relying increasingly on rising economies to underpin its quick expansion, with the US economy downing steam.

Toyota's Test Still Weather-Affected

2008-02-25T18:22:00.000-08:00

With the Formula One season about to start, I have been closely following our team in Formula One. Last time out, when they tested in Circuit de Catalunya, test driver Kobayashi only covered a lap because of the weather.

After that, I was hoping that they would be better in Barcelona and I hoped that the weather will be more kind to the team. But it wasn't meant to be as the team's practice session in Barcelona was once again affected by the bad weather.

Timo Glock took the place of Jarno Trulli in Barcelona and he covered 70 laps. Glock said that it was only during the latter part of the day that the team was able to put in any kind of work on the settings of the car.

"Again, these were not the ideal conditions for testing because of the damp start to the action. We did some running in the morning but not much because the track was changing so much. It became more stable during the second half of the afternoon and that went better for me. We worked on finding a set-up direction to suit my driving style better. We found an improved car balance and I was much happier with it today. We couldn’t try everything because we were a bit short of time in the afternoon but it was a good day," said Glock.

With the track wet during the early morning session, I think that not even cars with good Acura brake calipers would be able to go full speed at the tracks without the risk of crashing.

Kobayashi had a busier test session this time compared to last time out but it is still not enough for a day's test. He only covered 29 laps.

"It was another quiet morning for me. We did not want to waste mileage and tyres on a damp track so I did only an installation lap. Once the track dried out after lunch we were able to do more work. We did some set-up and weight distribution work and we made some progress despite the limited running time. The car felt more balanced and we are heading in the right direction," said Kobayashi.

Toyota's Winter Tests

2008-02-20T18:49:00.000-08:00

The 2008 Formula One season is soon to start and Toyota is once again aiming for a good season after dismal seasons year after year. With Timo Glock and Jarno Trulli driving for the team, Toyota can be competitive this year, if they have a good car that is.

Recently, the team tested their cars for winter conditions. They took to the Circuit de Catalunya to work on the cars. Trulli and test driver Kamui Kobayashi covered 58 laps combined.

The testing though did not go that well as Kobayashi just logged in a lap. Despite the weather getting in the way, Trulli said that they have made progress with the tuning of the car.

"Today was wet so it wasn’t an ideal day for testing. We were concentrating on testing some new parts for our new aerodynamics package. We made reasonable progress and collected some useful data but it’s still too early to figure anything out yet. The track was changing throughout the day so direct comparisons were hard. In conditions like we had today we didn’t do much mileage because we wanted to save some more miles and tyres for the next few days," said the Italian.

Kobayashi had a very short stay at the cockpit of the car. It takes about more than 50 laps or so to figure out what is going right or wrong with a car and his one lap test is not enough.

"That was a short day’s work for me. I put in an installation lap this morning and spent the rest of the day waiting for the weather to improve. We have limits on testing mileage so it was decided that we could not use up laps in conditions like these. That’s the way testing goes sometimes but at least I have been able to recover fully after a long trip from Indonesia yesterday," said Kobayashi.

The team needs the weather to cooperate for them to ideally test their cars so that it can contend with the Ferraris and the McLarens and other teams come raceday. This is not to say though that the team's car is still not good. In fact it can easily outpace an Acura MDX equipped with an oxygen sensor.

Toyota Takes First Win

2008-02-14T18:28:00.000-08:00

The NASCAR Sprint Cup Series is underway and Toyota is back from a dismal season last year. The automaker's entry into stock car racing has been a surprise to some but fans have been disappointed with Toyota teams' performance. They failed to take a single win last year.

Today though, Denny Hamlin took the first win for Toyota of any kind in NASCAR's premier series with a win in the second Gatorade Duels. With that, Hamlin will be starting fourth on the grid come the Daytona 500.

Last year, a Toyota starting in fourth may be the best that Toyota teams can come up with. This year though, Hamlin is not the highest ranked Toyota driver as Michael Waltrip secured a place in the front row after posting the second fastest lap time during the pole qualifiers.

Now that I mentioned Waltrip, I think that it should be noted that Waltrip has shown great leadership when he helped the 1999 NASCAR champion Dale Jarrett qualify for the Daytona 500. Going into the Duels, Jarrett is in danger of dropping out of the Daytona 500. But he drives for Waltrip Racing and Waltrip would not allow this to happen.

During the Duels, Waltrip who is already guaranteed a front row seat in the Daytona 500 dropped from the front and got behind Jarrett. With a little help from Waltrip, Jarrett was able to make it to third. A red flag though was raised which involves restarting the cars. During the restart, Jarrett's teammates, Waltrip and Reutimann (also qualified already) blocked off behind Jarrett. But the driver seemed to have no need for this as he had a great restart and went on to take a starting place in the Daytona 500.

This kind of teamwork may be the key to Waltrip Racing's success this season after a dismal one last year; a year in which they seemed to have put on a brake pad set on their performance level.

The Most Requested Vehicle

2008-02-12T16:38:00.000-08:00

This title went to none other than the world-renowned Toyota Camry with a complete strut assembly to go with the props! The Auto Channel reported that Autobytel Inc. has declared the winners for this year’s Autobytel/MyRide.com Consumer Choice Awards which to place at the National Automobile Dealers Association (NADA) convention in San Francisco.

The recognition identifies the auto manufacturers that produce the cars and trucks most requested by millions of internet car shoppers worldwide in Autobytel's website during 2007. The site presents an exceptional impression into online car buyer’s decisions as per choosing which car to get.

The 2008 Consumer Choice Awards’ Top 10 list for Most Requested vehicles headed by the Toyota Camry highlights an expanding awareness in fuel-efficiency among internet new-car buyers.

Honda’s Accord and Civic trailed the Toyota Camry as the most requested vehicle for last year after splitting a four-year period as the Most Requested Vehicle Overall. The Camry also celebrated with three other Top Ten appearances along with the Corolla, Prius and RAV4 in sixth, seventh, and eighth spots in that order.

2007 Autobytel/MyRide.com Consumer Choice Awards Winners:

#1 Overall Most Requested New Vehicle - Toyota Camry
Most Requested Truck - Dodge Ram
Most Requested New Passenger Car - Toyota Camry
Most Requested New SUV - Toyota RAV4
Most Requested New Luxury Car - BMW 3 Series
Most Requested New Minivan - Honda Odyssey

Autobytel/MyRide.com Top 10 Most Requested Vehicles for 2007:
Toyota Camry
Honda Civic
Honda Accord
Mini Cooper
Nissan Altima
Toyota Corolla
Toyota Prius
Toyota RAV4
Honda CR-V
BMW 3 Series

2008 Toyota Urban Runner Debuts At The Chicago Auto Show

2008-02-06T17:47:00.000-08:00

This year’s Chicago Auto Show, North America’s biggest auto show, will surely be a blast with the debut of the 2008 Toyota 4Runner. This mid-size sport-utility vehicle (SUV) comes with an all-new Sport Edition Urban Runner package with an upgraded style, value and a luxurious image.

The 2008 Toyota 4Runner Urban Runner boasts of durable interior and exterior features, a trademark of all Toyota vehicles. According to Autochannel, standard exterior characteristics of this car include the following:

Urban Runner badging
a unique rear spoiler
a color-keyed grille
Urban runner badging
chrome exhaust tip
XREAS Sport Enhanced Suspension badging
tubular side steps and tubular roof rack with crossbars.

Moreover, the Urban Runner offers a comfortable ride with its interior enhancements equipped with its newest audio system technology - an integrated portable Tom Tom personal navigation device that provides the vehicle users with latest traffic and weather information. In case the owner wants to transfer the device to another vehicle, an optional Tom Tom power kit and mounting device lessens the task.

The Toyota 4Runner was first introduced 5 years ago. The 2008 Urban Runner represents, the fourth generation of the vehicle’s type, carrying the same quality, safety, reliability and cost-effectiveness every car buyer is looking for. Worried about low quality head gaskets? It has one that matches the quality of an Acura Legend head gasket that is available in all of its three trims: the base SR5, the Sport Edition, and the Limited.

According to Detroit Free Press, as quoted in usnews.rankingandreviews.com, “It’s as quick and powerful as it looks. The 4Runner is rock-solid, right-sized, a breeze to drive and park.”

Meanwhile, The Washington Post remarked, “The 4Runner is excellent. But the mid-size SUV market is crowded with worthy competitors. This is a goodbuy - without added premiums.”

Based from reports in usnews.rankingandreviews.com, the 2008 Toyota 4Runner has an introductory manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) of $1,760, making it the 17th of 24 affordable SUVs as ranked by US news editors. Dealership begins this February.

Toyota’s Hottest Cars

2008-02-05T15:31:00.000-08:00

All Toyota fanatics out there listen up! (Or must I say, read on?)

Toyota Motor Sales (TMS) now has the manufacturer’s suggested retail prices (MSRP) for three of its newest “babies” - the 2009 Corolla, 2009 Matrix and the 2008 FJ Cruiser trail Teams Special Edition.

The three vehicles’ base prices now range from $4,755 to $9,950.

But for now, we’ll focus on the 10^th generation 2009 Corolla which had its debut at the 2007 Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) Show. The new Corolla comes in five trims namely the Standard, LE, XLE, S as well as the XRS.

Tagged as the 10^th generation Corolla, the 2009 Corolla bears a sporty image enhanced by a body kit for its S and XRS models which consists of front spoiler, rocker moldings, upper and lower rear spoilers and engine undercovers that surely matches the quality of the Acura Legend fender.

The new Corolla comes with an all-new body that’s made to have an increased interior and luggage room, more power, more cost-effective engines and an innovative chassis and suspension. It also has a pair of new engines and each can be fused with a five-speed manual transmission. It is available with a four-speed automatic transmission combined with a 1.8-liter engine that produces 132 hp at 6,000 rpm and a five-speed automatic that comes with a 2.4-liter engine that produces 158 hp at 6,000 rpm.

The 2009 Corolla also features safety and convenience systems that have always been Toyota, the world’s third largest automaker’s, trademark. It is equipped with airbags installed in the steering wheel and side curtains as well as the Anti-lock Braking System (ABS). As an option, it has a Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) with Tradition Control and cut-off switch.

For the specifics, here are some as disclosed by ToyotaLand:

Standard Grade

Base MSRP: $15,250 (manual), $16,050 (automatic)
P195/65 R15 tires
Heavy duty rear window defogger
XM satellite capable AM/FM?CD audio with four speakers
Air conditioning with air filter
Intermittent windshield wipers
Two 12-volt power outlets
Daytime running lights
Black manual folding power mirrors
Power steering
Tilt and telescopic steering wheel
60/40 split folding rear seats

S Grade

Base MSRP: $16,320 (manual), $17,150 (automatic)
P205/55R16 tires with full wheel covers
Color-keyed front and rear underbody spoilers
Fog lamps
Front sport seats
Leather-wrapped steering wheel
Black headlamp housing
Chrome exhaust tip
AM/FM/CD XM capable audio with six speakers

LE Grade

Base MSRP: $16,650 (automatic)
Power windows with driver-side-one-touch down
Shift-activated power doorlocks
Color-keyed manual-folding power mirrors

XLE Grade

Base MSRP: $17,550 (automatic)
P205/55 R16 tires with full wheel covers
Variable intermittent wipers
Remote keyless entry
Optitron gauges
Center gauges
Center console with sliding armrests
Wood grain trim
Driver and passenger rear-seat pockets

XRS Grade

Base MSRP: $18,760 (manual), $19,950 (automatic)
2.4-liter producing 154 hp and 162 ft-lbs torque
Rear deck spoiler
P215/45 R17 tires with alloy wheels
Sport strut tower brace
VSC with TRAC and cut-off switch
XRS scuff plate
Leather-trimmed shift lever and knob
Cruise control
Interior chrome accent

The 2009 Corolla will be available in US auto markets starting this February.

Cars On The Roads, Winglets On The Sidewalks

2008-01-29T18:50:00.000-08:00

Toyota Motor Corp. is successful in establishing a good name in the auto industry. Matter of fact, its name is deemed synonymous with quality. As the leading manufacturer of hybrids, the Japanese automaker is worthy of its green credo crown. And in less than no time, it is also expected that the automaker will be crowned as the largest around the globe.

But ToMoCo isn’t satisfied with road invasion alone. While the company’s cars are running on the roads, Toyota wants its winglets to conquer the sidewalks.

It was reported by the Financial Post that Toyota has filed a trademark application with the Canadian Intellectual Property Office in late November for a motorized wheelchair it calls "winglet." It can also be recalled that at the 2007 Tokyo Auto Show, the automaker launched a similar product with different name.

"We are very interested in mobility of all kinds," said Pat Clement, Toyota Motor Manufacturing Canada spokeswoman. "It's very possible that [the Winglet] is something along the lines of the personal mobility devices that have been shown. Toyota's Canadian manufacturing arm nevertheless has little to no information about the vehicle in the filing.”

The filing of the application is an indication that Toyota is getting closer to commercializing its PMVs - short for personal-mobility vehicles. To note, the automaker has earlier launched 4 generations of concept PMVs - the PM, i-Unit, i-Swing, and i-Real.

Beyond the need to wow a Japanese audience, however, Toyota has recognized that there are "cities within cities," in airports and other places, where such vehicles can be used, said Jessica Caldwell, an analyst with Edmunds.com. "They're a big company and they've got the budget to look beyond just cars and trucks and SUVs."

With the tight competition, automakers are finding new ways to reach out to consumers. Toyota’s officials said that they intend to market the PMV globally. However, they did not divulge a particular timeline.

As General Motors envisions how to enhance the GMC wheels and other car parts, Toyota thinks about how best to meet the needs of the ageing populace. This is why more PMV are expected to be launched by the Japanese automaker. That’s a nice focus Toyota!

When Alertness Turns Digital

2008-01-25T22:02:00.000-08:00

We never knew they ever existed. We never cared about their struggles to reach for their dreams that suddenly turned into their loved ones' worst nightmares. Death robbed our chance to meet these nameless faces included in about 1.2 million people worldwide who die annually because of road traffic accidents including car crashes.

As part of Toyota Motor Corporation's (TMC) commitment to traffic safety, the company will launch another driver-monitoring breakthrough that is expected to reduce collision-related damages. TMC’s Pre-crash Safety system now has the ability to determine whether a driver's eyes are properly open.

Logically, a driver's vision plays a vital role in reducing risks of vehicular accidents simply because they're the ones who call the shots in the streets. With TMC's Pre-crash System eye-monitoring feature, the position of the driver's upper and lower eyelids will be determined using a driver-monitoring camera and image-processing computer. While a starter sets off the car's internal combustion engine in order to power itself. This eye-monitoring feature was designed to give signals to the driver prior to a car collision threat by determining the driver's position and eye condition.

This innovation - the world's first ever - is part of TMC's sustainable mobility scheme with the intent of encouraging traffic safety initiatives that carry the following advocacies:

the development of even safer vehicles and technologies based on TMC's Integrated Safety Management Concept
participation in the creation of a safe traffic environment
activities designed to educate people in traffic safety, thereby contributing to the complete elimination of traffic casualties, which can be viewed as the ultimate hope of a society that values mobility.

TMC's pre-crash system eye-monitoring feature will be available in vehicle models that will be launched soon. Hopefully, before time runs out. Before another nameless face passes our way again, never to return.

It’s A Tie!

2008-01-24T16:45:00.000-08:00

The continuing clash for supremacy between the two of the world’s largest and most renowned auto manufacturers, Toyota and GM, has come to a deadlock. Fasten your seatbelts as we get down to the real score!

According to TheAutoChannel.com, the AIADA bulletin accounted that General Motors Corporation’s 76-year of dominance as the world’s largest and number one auto manufacturer has come to an end as Toyota Motor Corp. rushed through the competition and was tied with GM for the first time in 2007.

In 2007, GM announced that it sold 9,369,524 million vehicles worldwide. On the other hand, Toyota confirmed last week that the company sold over 9.37 million vehicles in 2007. Toyota also assured that there are other exact figures that will be released and available at the end of the month.

The tie emphasizes the deviating tracks both GM and Toyota are on at present according to the Wall Street Journal. For the Japanese nameplate, their vision is to continue the company’s expansion worldwide especially in the U.S. while GM's home turf sales and market share decreases.

Toyota President States Goal For Team

2008-01-17T17:18:00.000-08:00

Earlier this year, there have been reports that Toyota's Formula One team has been given a two-year ultimatum to achieve success in the sport. But recently, that speculation was denied by the team. Recently, team president John Howett said that no pressure was given to the team from Japan. But he also said that the team is dedicated to have a winning season for a change.

Last year, as we all know now, Jarno Trulli and Ralf Schumacher can only finish as high as sixth place which they did both once. The season ended with Schumacher leaving the team and the team signing former BMW Sauber test driver Timo Glock.

Howett knows that last year has been disappointing. "We have to do better than we did in 2007," he said, "and I think more importantly we want to do better. We only exist to win. We have similar resources I'm sure to many of the top teams; the difference really is the people we have. "

He also said that the team is working hard to get the best out of their car. "The competitive pressure of Formula 1 means the design development is remorseless – we start on the following season's car before the current season's car even runs. Going into this season we feel in good shape, but on the other hand we have to be paranoid that there are a lot of other very good teams and competitors out there, so we need to make sure we squeeze the maximum out of our package." That means that it would certainly be equipped with technologies and auto parts more advanced than ordinary ignition wire sets.

Toyota Venza’s World Debut In Detroit

2008-01-15T18:05:00.000-08:00

The race to the most innovative concept car in the 2008 Detroit Auto Show has never been this exciting! But the real score is... you’ll definitely go gaga over these great vehicles brought in by the biggest and renowned car manufacturers in the planet. They are absolutely jaw-dropping and stunning. Wow. From the most stylish hubcaps to the most powerful engine, you couldn’t ask for more because the 2008 Detroit Auto show has it all!

Speaking of great concept cars, Toyota has their own best kept secret, and now, the secret has been revealed to the world. The company has unveiled the all-new 2009 Venza crossover sedan at a press conference at the 2008 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS). The Venza is expected to elevate the crossover vehicle to new heights by bringing up both exceptional combination of sedan sophistication and SUV functionality.

"The all-new Venza was developed as a vehicle that combines the styling, comfort and fun-to-drive performance elements of a five-passenger sedan with the surprising utility of an SUV. This winning combination will be ideal for active 'boomers' and young couples with small families," says Bob Carter, Toyota Division group vice president and general manager.

According to the Auto Channel, each and every characteristic of the Venza's design and engineering were targeted exclusively for the North American market where it will be sold entirely for the said region. Venza was mainly engineered at Toyota Technical Center in Ann Arbor, Michigan, and designed at Toyota's Calty design studios in Newport Beach, Calif. and Ann Arbor, Mich. The Venza will be assembled at Toyota Motor Manufacturing Kentucky (TMMK), in Georgetown, Ky.

"Venza will establish an exciting new crossover niche that will combine the finest attributes of Toyota's diverse vehicle lineup," said Carter. "It will cater to buyers who are looking for the value and reliability of a Camry, the comfort and upscale refinement of an Avalon, and the utility and functionality of a Highlander SUV in one very stylish and sporty package."

"When it goes on sale in late 2008, the Venza crossover sedan will represent Toyota's latest commitment to driving change in the marketplace."

Toyota Vehicles Are Top-Sellers In The U.S.

2008-01-11T16:59:00.000-08:00

Before anything else, check this list courtesy of my source:

RANK VEHICLE - 2008/2007/'07 RANK/%Chng

1. F-Series - 690,589/796,039/1st/-13.2
2. Silverado-C/K Pickup - 618,257/636,069/2nd/-2.8
3. CAMRY- 473,108/448,445/3rd/+5.5
4. Accord * - 392,231/354,441/5th/+10.7
5. COROLLA - 371,390/387,388/4th/-4.1
6. Ram P/U - 358,295/364,177/6th/-1.6
7. Civic * - 331,095/316,638/7th/+4.6
8. Impala - 311,128/289,868/8th/+7.3
9. Altima - 284,762/232,457/10th/+22.5
10. CR-V * - 219,160/170,028/20th/+28.9
11. Sierra - 208,243/210,736/12th/-1.2
12. Cobalt - 200,620/211,449/9th/-5.1
13. TUNDRA - 196,555/124,508/33th/+57.9
14. PRIUS - 181,221/106,971/NA/+69.4
15. Caravan - 176,150/211,140/19th/-16.6
16. Focus - 173,213/177,006/16th/-2.1
17. Odyssey - 173,046/177,919/16th/-2.7
18. RAV4 - 172,752/152,047/15th/+13.6
19. Econoline/Club Wagon - 168,722/180,457/11th/-6.5
20. Escape - 165,596/157,395/22nd/+5.2

These are the compiled results of the top 20 best selling vehicles in the U.S. up to December 2007 as it was brought to the public by Reuters.

Okay, so now you’re aware of the top 20 best-selling vehicles in the States? Oh yeah, and five of them came from Toyota’s lineup of cool premium automobiles. Toyota has surpassed GM, Ford Motor Company and the rest of the car makers in global sales for the last two years if I’m not mistaken. And these big names are basically U.S. home-based car manufacturers. How can this be? I guess Toyota cars are hot enough to beat any other nameplate worldwide. Talk about their Toyota radiators and auto styling... awesome indeed!

The continuing spread of Toyota’s popularity has gone extremely successful around the world and the company aims to maintain their position as the world’s number one automaker!

Changes At The Top

2008-01-07T18:46:00.001-08:00

The year 2008 is expected to be a great year for Toyota as it is expected to become the world's largest automaker. And to usher in that new era for the automaker, there have been changes in the higher levels of the company.

The Auto Channel reported these changes which are the following:

Chris Hostetter, vice president of advanced product strategy and product planning is promoted to group vice president of advanced product strategy and product planning. Hostetter continues to report to Dave Danzer, group vice president, corporate strategy and product planning.

Randy Pflughaupt, vice president of marketing, is promoted to group vice president of marketing, Toyota Division. Pflughaupt continues to report to Bob Carter, group vice president and general manager of the Toyota Division.

Bill Fay, vice president of sales, is promoted to group vice president, sales administration, replacing Al Cabito. A distinguished 36-year veteran of Toyota, Cabito elected to retire, effective January 2008. Fay reports to Don Esmond, senior vice president of automotive operations.

Jim Colon, vice president of Lexus sales and dealer development, is appointed vice president of sales, Toyota Division, replacing Fay. Colon reports to Carter.

Brian Smith, corporate manager, marketing/SUV, is promoted to vice president of Lexus sales and dealer development, replacing Colon. Smith will report to Mark Templin, group vice president and general manager of the Lexus Division.

Kevin Higgins, national sales and product planning manager, is promoted to corporate manager, marketing/SUV, replacing Smith. Higgins reports to Pflughaupt.

Mike Reding, vice president of corporate accessories, is appointed to the new position of vice president, sales support and international operations, with responsibility for Fleet/Toyota Rent a Car/Toyota Certified Used Vehicles and international operations. Reding reports to Fay.

Elaine Matsuda, corporate manager of customer relations, is promoted to vice president of corporate accessories, replacing Reding. Matsuda continues to report to Jane Beseda, group vice president and general manager, customer service division.

Nancy Fein, vice president of Lexus customer service, is appointed vice president of customer relations, replacing Matsuda. Fein reports to Beseda.

Al Smith, corporate manager of Fleet/Toyota Rent a Car/Toyota Certified Used Vehicles, is promoted to vice president of Lexus customer service, replacing Fein. Smith reports to Templin.

Scott Heyer, national fleet sales and marketing manager, is promoted to corporate manager of Fleet/Toyota Rent a Car/Toyota Certified Used Vehicles, replacing Smith. Heyer reports to Reding.

Barbara Arnold, assistant general counsel, is promoted to vice president of ethics, compliance, and enterprise risk management, with added responsibility for environmental, health and safety, which currently reports to administrative services. Arnold continues to report to Chris Reynolds, vice president and general counsel.

With those changes, it seems as if Toyota is really getting ready for the biggest hurdle in the company's life - a feat which is not as easy as manufacturing brake dust shields.

Sales Report For 2007

2008-01-03T17:20:00.000-08:00

The year 2008 is expected to be a great year for Toyota as it is on track to become the largest automaker in the world. But before we look forward to that new chapter in Toyota's history, let us take a look at what they have accomplished last year.

The Auto Channel reported Toyota's sales report for 2007. The automaker posted another record-breaking sales output for 2007, an increase of 2.7 percent compared to 2006. 2.7 percent may not sound a whole lot but if you are talking about millions of vehicles, it surely is a big number.

The report reads: "Toyota Division reported December sales of 189,844 units. Toyota Division passenger cars recorded December sales of 101,741 units, with best-ever year-end sales of 1,313,651 units, up 2.7 percent over last year. For the year, passenger-car sales were led by Camry, which posted annual sales of 473,108, an increase of 5.2 percent. Corolla posted year-end sales of 371,390. The Yaris subcompact reported year-end sales totaling 84,799, up 20.2 percent over 2006 sales. Prius gas-electric hybrid mid-size sedan reported sales of 14,212 units for a best-ever December and best-ever year-end sales of 181,221 units, up 68.9 percent over 2006."

For the Scion Division: "Scion reported December sales of 8,944 units. The Scion xB urban utility vehicle recorded December sales of 3,785 units with year-end sales totaling 45,834. The tC sports coupe reported December sales of 3,507 units with year-end sales reaching 63,852 units."

And for the automaker's luxury division, Lexus: "Lexus reported December sales of 34,555 units, down 7.2 percent from the year-ago month. Lexus passenger cars reported December sales of 19,840 units and achieved best-ever year-end results of 200,334 units, up 9.1 percent over 2006."

Those numbers surely means that Toyota has racked up a lot of profits last year and that does not even include sales of auto parts such as radiators for Toyota pickups.

New Year, New Resolutions

2008-01-01T18:34:00.000-08:00

It’s a brand new year for all of us. And maybe now you are inking your 2008 resolutions. Same with Toyota.

Earlier, the largest automaker announced its resolutions and initiatives for 2008. Toyota President Katsuaki Watanabe lays down the plans…

Research and Development

Research and development refers to the pursuit of sustainable mobility, and we believe that it is hybrid technologies that will play a central role in achieving this. Toyota has made considerable efforts to promote the use of hybrid vehicles since the launch of the Prius in 1997. To date, we have achieved global cumulative sales of 1.25 million hybrid vehicles (as of November 2007). We estimate that the resulting reduction effect in CO2 emissions is 5 million tons. Our current goal is to achieve hybrid vehicle sales of 1 million units annually as soon as possible in the early 2010s, and, beyond that, we are committed to having a hybrid model in all Toyota vehicle series. Furthermore, we are now conducting verification tests of a plug-in hybrid vehicle in Japan, the United States and Europe and as such, are making steady progress toward commercialization.

Area of Sustainability

We are currently implementing our sustainable plant activities, which emphasize the role of nature in creating production sites that are in harmony with their natural surroundings. The Tsutsumi Plant in Japan where the Prius is manufactured has been positioned as a model plant and these activities are being conducted there.

The main feature of the sustainable plant concept is plant development from the following three perspectives: achieving groundbreaking environmental performance by introducing innovative technology and kaizen (improvement) activities; using renewable energy, including biomass and natural energy sources, such as solar power and wind power; contributing to the local community and conserving the environment by planting trees in and around plants.

Social Contribution

With respect to our social contribution activities that are designed to achieve a sustainable society, we have emphasized hands-on environmental education at the Forest of Toyota that puts participants in touch with nature, with approximately 25,000 children having participated over these past 10 years. We are also conducting vigorous afforestation activities overseas in countries such as China and the Philippines.

The various activities designed to achieve sustainability as we envision it have been entitled the Toyota Tomorrow Project. The Toyota Tomorrow Project incorporates the sentiment of making every possible effort as a company to achieve the prosperous global society of tomorrow. In the name of this vision, we hope to further enhance our activities.

As we observe, things are growing even better – not just for Toyota. And with this new year, enhanced control arm and improved auto parts accessories plus never-ending innovations are on its way.

The Safest Vehicles On US Roads

2007-12-29T01:05:00.000-08:00

Here is the list of the safest cars on the streets of the US as released by Forbesauto.com. The official website reveals the complete list of the cars with the safest features.

Acura RL
Rank: 1
Curb weight: 4,012 pounds
IIHS frontal: Good
IIHS side: n/a
SCORE: 55
The big, comfortable yet sprightly RL is the best for safety and also fun to drive.

Volvo S80
Rank: 2
Curb weight: 3,737 pounds
IIHS frontal: Good
IIHS side: n/a
SCORE: 55
The S80 lives up to Volvo’s reputation for safety, and with its feeling of solidity comes a very comfortable, quiet and spacious interior.

Honda Odyssey
Rank: 3
Curb weight: 4,378 pounds
IIHS frontal: Good
IIHS side: Good
SCORE: 57
A stability control system, antilock brakes and side airbags are standard on the Alabama-built Odyssey.

Acura TL
Rank: 4
Curb weight: 3,580 pounds
IIHS frontal: Good
IIHS side: Good
SCORE: 59
The TL comes equipped with safety features like electronic stability control, side and side-curtain airbags as well as a sophisticated occupant detection system. The Acura CL wheel bearing is also available on this particular model.

Chrysler 300C/Dodge Charger
Rank: 5
Curb weight: 3,712 pounds
IIHS frontal: Good
IIHS side: Good
SCORE: 60
When equipped with the available stability control system, antilock brakes and side-curtain airbags, the mechanically similar Chrysler 300C and Dodge Charger rank as two of the safest vehicles.

Lincoln Town Car
Rank: 6
Curb weight: 4,310 pounds
IIHS frontal: Good
IIHS side: n/a
SCORE: 61
Just because the Town Car looks somewhat caught in the past doesn’t mean that it’s missing all the modern safety features. Side airbags and antilock brakes with electronic brake-force distribution are standard.

Buick Lucerne
Rank: 7
Curb weight: 3,764 pounds
IIHS frontal: Good
IIHS side: n/a
SCORE: 61
The Lucerne has a total of six airbags onboard, including side and side-curtain air bags as well as a new dual-depth passenger airbag that can deploy to two different sizes.

Lexus ES 330
Rank: 8
Curb weight: 3,472 pounds
IIHS frontal: Good
IIHS side: Good
SCORE: 55
The ES 330's safety features include eight standard airbags (including side airbags in the front and side-curtain air bags that cover the front and back) plus standard stability control.

Lincoln LS
Rank: 9
Curb weight: 3,772 pounds
IIHS frontal: Good
IIHS side: n/a
SCORE: 63
This luxurious sedan offers a sport-tuned suspension and rear-wheel drive for better handling than is expected from a Lincoln.

Honda Pilot
Rank: 10
Curb weight: 4,264 pounds
IIHS frontal: Good
IIHS side: n/a
SCORE: 63
The only SUV to make our list, Honda’s Pilot shares some components with the also highly rated Odyssey minivan.

Toyota To Unleash Hybrid Pickup Concept

2007-12-28T21:33:00.000-08:00

From the leader in hybrid technology comes a hybrid pickup. Yes, hybrid pickup. A gas-guzzler turned into a hybrid? It may seem impossible. But not with Toyota.

Toyota Motor Corp. will unveil a concept for a small hybrid pickup at the North American International Auto Show in January. Toyota said the A-BAT show truck was conceived by its U.S. sales and design experts with suburban drivers in mind. "This compact truck is as comfortable for long commutes as it is for road trips," Kevin Hunter, president of Calty Design Research Inc. in Newport Beach, Calif., said in a statement.

Positioned below the Tacoma in Toyota's lineup, the A-BAT bears a resemblance to Honda Motor Co.'s midsize Ridgeline pickup. Like the Ridgeline, the A-BAT has a unibody platform, which provides car-like handling and a smoother ride, reported The Detroit News. It features plenty of gadgets, such as tailgate lighting, a portable power pack, information-display screens for the driver and front passenger, and clever storage areas, such as a sliding drawer beneath the 4-foot bed.

"We were able to create a compact truck that's utilitarian, has a 'small, but tough' character and is economical to operate," Hunter said. In addition to the fuel-efficient gas-electric powertrain, the A-BAT's other environmentally friendly attributes include solar panels that can convert sunlight into energy to charge the navigation unit and information displays.

The largest Japanese automaker said its designers strived to create a rugged look for the exterior but a modern interior. The truck can seat four in a combination of configurations. Toyota will unveil the truck on Jan. 13 during the press preview of the Detroit auto show.

The maker of Toyota Paseo radiator will be entering the 2008 show as the second-largest automaker in the American market. Through the first 11 months of the year, Toyota has sold 2.4 million vehicles in the United States, ahead of Ford Motor Co. with 2.35 million in sales. But Toyota's sales growth has moderated to a 3.6% increase so far this year, after a 12.5% surge in 2006.

Additionally, on Jan. 14, Toyota will pull the wraps off the 2009 Venza crossover, which seats five. The automaker said the Venza, which blends SUV and sedan attributes, was designed and engineered in the United States and will be assembled at its Georgetown, Ky., plant next year.

Toyota Wants To Stay On Top

2007-12-27T17:46:00.000-08:00

Nothing’s going to stop Toyota from being number one… they are absolutely all set to fix the record straight. Even the best brake calipers won’t hold the rising force of the Japanese carmaker! Toyota has reached the top as the world’s best auto manufacturer for the past year outplaying its constant competition - GM Company! According to a reporter named Chang-Ran Kim as reported in The Auto Channel, the Toyota Motor Corp. will boost further into the up-and-coming car markets to accomplish another successful year of record sales next year. Toyota is indeed giving a statement that they want to stay on top, ahead from its fierce close rivals like General Motors Corp.

"The Chinese market has undergone a significant change during the year," President Katsuaki Watanabe told a year-end news conference.

"At the beginning of the year, we wondered if the total auto market would reach 8 million, and by mid-year we were looking at 8.5 million. Now it's possible the market will exceed 9 million," he said. "We need to figure out how to meet demand."

Toyota is expecting to record 1 million car sales a year in China in the future after 2010. Executive Vice President Tokuichi Uranishi said: "We expect the economy to slow down a bit, and there are risks from the subprime loan crisis and crude oil prices."

"I feel that we're coming close to making a decision on when and where to launch the vehicle, but we need a little more time to make improvements, including in the cost and design areas," Watanabe said. The prototype that he tested a month ago, he said, was at "a pretty good level".

Toyota Predicts Brighter Future

2007-12-26T04:59:00.000-08:00

It looks to me that Toyota is pretty determined to stay on top of the auto competition…

Toyota Motor Corp., the largest automaker worldwide, predicted last Tuesday further robust growth in 2008 after racing past General Motors Corp. this year.

The Japanese automaker said strong growth in emerging markets such as China, Russia and Brazil will help to lift vehicle sales by 5% next year, despite an expected sluggish performance in the United States due to a slowing economy. Toyota added it expects to sell 9.85 million vehicles next year, up from a previous target of 9.8 million.

"Because of the US housing slump and the subprime loan problems we expect the US market to remain at the same level as this year," said Toyota president Katsuaki Watanabe. “[In Japan,] the market is expected to remain at a rather weak level."

“On the other hand, sales in fast-growing economies such as China, Brazil and Russia are expected to show continued solid growth. Toyota intends to strengthen its production structure in those emerging countries," Watanabe said at a traditional year-end press conference in Toyota’s hub of Aichi prefecture in central Japan.

The automaker estimated that its global sales increased by 6% to 9.36 million in 2007, including subsidiaries truckmaker Hino Motors Ltd. and small car specialist Daihatsu Motor Co.

To note, GM, which does not report sales, has been the world's best-selling automaker for 7 decades with an all-time record of selling 9.55 million vehicles in 1978. At present, it is undergoing a major restructuring program.

Analysts said that while Toyota's targets for next year appeared achievable, the wildcard is the US market where sales could prove weaker than it expects. "We think that the (US) market will be substantially down" next year, said Credit Suisse auto analyst Koji Endo. A stronger yen and a less favourable product mix could also weigh on the company's overall performance, he added.

But he warned: "Toyota's profits have increased for the past 7 or 8 years, but for the first time they could go down next year.”

In terms of production, it is already virtually certain that Toyota will snatch GM's crown of the world number one for 2007. Toyota said that it expects output of 9.51 million vehicles this year, while GM expects to produce 9.259 million, AFP reported. Next year Toyota expects to boost global output by five percent to 9.95 million vehicles.

"Next year we have the presidential election in the US. The subprime problem is already a big issue for Toyota. On the top of that, they don't want to have a political issue. They're trying to have a low profile," said Endo.

"Toyota is facing new problems this year, which are the high oil price and the US subprime mortgage woes. These are serious risks for the automaker," noted Mitsuyuki Odaira, an auto analyst at Tokai Tokyo Research Center.

It seems like we will be having interesting auto competition between the two giants. Actually, more interesting than an Acura CSX fender.

A Look Back At Toyota In NASCAR

2007-12-25T21:39:00.000-08:00

This year has been good for Toyota when it comes to auto sales. But in racing sports, it seems as if Toyota is still caught up in the middle of the pack or even at the far bottom. In NASCAR, the Japanese automaker has found its running a bit rough and finished the season with little to show.

This site describes Toyota's season with these words:

"Toyota entered Cup competition without luring established, top-tier teams away from other manufacturers, so Bill Davis Racing and two brand-new operations - Team Red Bull and Michael Waltrip Racing - helped bring the first foreign-based company into full-time competition in stock-car racing's top series. Things went haywire from the first day of competition for a points-paying event as Michael Waltrip's car failed prequalifying inspection at the Daytona 500. A 'foreign substance' was found inside the car's intake manifold, and NASCAR impounded the car and expelled two members of Waltrip's team for their role in the infraction.

"With Toyota's new teams fighting uphill against NASCAR's rule guaranteeing starting spots to those in the top 35 in car owner standings, qualifying day became the biggest day of the week for the Camry crews.

"None of the teams made every race in 2007, with Dave Blaney coming closest by qualifying for 33 of 36.

"Blaney and Waltrip each won a pole, and Blaney's third-place finish at Talladega was Toyota's best of the season. Blaney also finished 34th in the owner standings, meaning he'll have a spot in the starting lineup for the first five races of 2008.

"With those first-year growing pains out of the way, however, how much better will Toyota's second Cup season be? That figures to depend largely on how well Joe Gibbs Racing fares in its transition to the manufacturer.

"The Gibbs team, which has won 58 races in its 16 seasons of competition, will send star drivers Tony Stewart, Denny Hamlin and new team member Kyle Busch onto the track this year trying to get Toyota its first taste of NASCAR victory."

Anyway, I think that the next season will be more productive for the team and they will be fielding cars which can outstrip any Acura CSX distributor cap-equipped car.

Glock Faster Than Trulli

2007-12-17T16:51:00.000-08:00

With Schumacher out and Glock in, can we expect Toyota to perform better next season in Formula One? Well, I think that there's a reason to hope for better things to come. Much of that hope though can be pinned to the arrival of Timo Glock. Although Trulli is truly a talented driver, it seems that Glock will be pushing him to the limit.

On Toyota's latest test in Jerez, Glock posted a faster best lap time than Trulli finishing with the sixth fastest time while Jarno finished ninth.

Trulli had this to say about the test: "We tried to achieve many things today so it was quite busy for me. I used the new slick tyres and they gave a lot more grip and were pretty consistent. We also tried the tyres with 2009 levels of downforce which was quite different and a bit tricky. It was not easy to understand everything because we tried so many different things during the day. We collected a lot of data and now we must study that and figure out the solution. We tried to do as many laps as possible, which was our main target in order to put mileage on the new rear end and 2008 ECU."

Glock is still not able to comment on his performance in respect of BMW Sauber which technically still employs him until the end of the year. Although Glock may not voice out his opinions of the car, it looks as if his driving says it all.

Meanwhile, Dieter Gass, the chief engineer for race and test, had this to say: "That was a successful day and we completed the programme without any issues. We have used up our entire annual allocation of kilometres and Bridgestone Potenza tyres so we can be pleased with that. It was interesting to see Jarno driving on slick tyres today. He is one of the few drivers here this week to have previous experience of Formula 1 slick tyres and his feedback has been very helpful. We have been looking ahead to 2009 more today with the slick tyres and reduced downforce levels and we can be pleased with our progress. Timo has once again given good input into set-up development, including using the slick tyres again. It has been a pleasure having him in the car this week and he has made a strong contribution already to our development."

Hopefully, Toyota will have a better season next year and may they rack up wins as if they are just shopping for wholesale auto parts.

15,600 Tundra Recalls

2007-12-16T17:57:00.000-08:00

World-known automakers like Toyota can make flaws at times. I mean all car manufacturers aren’t perfect to build a vehicle without any defects at all. There are faulty parts like starters, radiators, and the whole lot and we’ve heard a lot of recalls this year and Toyota Motors is not an exemption. According to The Auto Channel, Reuters accounted that Toyota is recalling 15,600 Tundra pickup trucks in the United States today. The problem was said to be a rear propeller shaft that may split up at the joint. The recall included the 2007 model-year Tundra four-wheel-drive pickup trucks.

"There is a possibility that a joint in the rear propeller shaft may have been improperly heat treated, resulting in insufficient hardness," Toyota said in a statement.

The defective part may cause a part of the rear propeller shaft to separate at the joint, it added. Fortunately, there were no injuries or accidents that have been reported in relation to the recall.

The Future Battery Of Electric Cars

2007-12-14T15:41:00.000-08:00

All car makers not only on the US but foreign ones are opting to build more cars capable of producing 0% gas emission. And one among the best ways to reduce carbon dioxide emission is through the use of biofuel or biogas. These gases are expensive because of its real time carbon dioxide reduction however the resources are only limited.

This is why hybrid cars are given more features like batteries so it can run on less gasoline and would be concentrating more on the use of electricity. For many years, starting from the development of the very first hybrid car Honda Insight, there has been lots of improvements on hybrids. Some cars are using hydrogen fuel but some use electricity thus totally avoiding the use of gas. The lightest lithium-ion batteries have long been planned to be used on Prius but because of safety concerns, such a plan has not yet been put into action.

And now another issue is coming out in the hybrid market. This is certainly not about Acura CL headlights but are about batteries. These are the problems about charging were most of batteries are not charging fast. Some batteries overheat and cause fires, plus most of the batteries don’t hold enough too long. Toshiba was able to identify these problems and made a solution for these to make a close to perfection battery. They created the Super Charge ion Battery.

The new battery is also called the SCiB. This new battery from Toshiba is made safe and can charge-discharge cycle 5,000 times while retaining its effectiveness. It has a life span of about 10 years. It also allows the recharge with 50 amp current, meaning it quickly charges its battery more than the conventional ones. Toshiba has tested the battery in extreme temperatures, as well, and it has maintained its ability to discharge at temperatures reaching -30 degrees Celsius (about -22 degrees Fahrenheit).

How Green Is Prius?

2007-12-14T00:54:00.000-08:00

Just how green is the Prius? A good number of Hollywood celebrities say it’s pretty green and a little pricey. Care to ask Leonardo DiCaprio, Jennifer Aniston and other environmentally conscious celebrities?

They and many regular others see the hybrid as a step toward solving pollution and global warming concerns. And folks go green with envy when a neighbor acquires a Prius.

But is the Prius all it's cracked up to be? Let's get a little closer...

Toyota developed an innovative power train that combines an electric motor and a gasoline-fueled internal combustion engine. This enables the Prius to provide lower emissions and higher fuel economy than regular cars.

When accelerating, the electric motor and the internal-combustion engine work together, with the engine recharging the batteries. In bumper-to-bumper city traffic, the Prius alternates between the 2 power sources and sometimes runs on battery power alone. A regenerative braking system converts energy usually lost as heat into electricity and uses that to further recharge the car's battery pack.

There also are other, intangible reasons for buying a Prius.

"If you buy a Prius, it shows you are the best liberal on the block," said Michael Omotoso, a senior manager of J.D. Power and Associates, the independent automotive-research firm. "If you buy it, your environmental image is instantly improved."

J.D. Power's latest forecast is that there will be some 354,000 hybrid car units sold in 2007, "a 39% increase from last year," Omotoso said.

Total reported hybrid sales this year have been 295,000, of which slightly more than half, 150,000 cars — were Priuses. "Second place was the [hybrid] Camry at 47,000 units," Omotoso said.

The Prius looks like nothing else on the road. It's got some cool technological features that you don't see in most vehicles, such as a continuously variable transmission and a space-age dashboard that looks like a video game. Another feature is the nickel-metal hydride battery. There's no lead in that battery, no deadly toxin to leach into landfills when it's disposed of improperly.

"Most independent mechanics won't touch a hybrid," said Kevin Harrison, a professor of environmental science at McDaniel College in Westminster, Md. "You have to go to the dealer."
Harrison also points out that, as with organic food, you've got to spend a bit extra to go green.

"It does not make financial sense to buy a hybrid," Harrison told Fox News. "It would take years of ownership to recover the additional cost of buying a hybrid by saving money at the pump."

At that rate, it would take nearly 25 years to make up the sticker-price difference. "If you drive more than 14,000 miles in a year, you will recover the costs sooner," Harrison said. "If the price of gasoline goes up, you will also recover the costs sooner."

So is the Prius really a "green" car? Yes. It gets terrific mileage for its size, and that means less pollution and fewer carbon-dioxide emissions per mile driven. Its batteries also are much less toxic when disposed of than conventional lead-acid automotive batteries.

More green to be much greener!

[credit: Fox News]

Consumers Trust Toyota

2007-12-07T16:31:00.000-08:00

If you would ask anyone why Toyota is such a huge hit among consumers, I think the answer will be either the fuel efficiency of their vehicles but more importantly, it is the reliability that makes consumers trust the Toyota brand. The Japanese automaker's power of creating good vehicles that make consumers keep coming back is certified in the newest study conducted by J. D. Power and Associates.

Said firm's research entitled the 2007 Consumer Retention Study is a measure of how much of an automaker's buyer base bought a new vehicle from the same automaker. At the end of the day, Toyota is still number one with 64.6 percent of its previous customers coming back and buying a new vehicle from the Japanese brand. This is the second year that Toyota has achieved the feat.

Neal Oddes of J.D. Power had this to say according to The Auto Channel: "Toyota's high customer retention rate is particularly notable, considering that new-vehicle sales have declined in the past year. Toyota maintains its high retention rates by providing high-quality vehicles and service to its existing customers, which in turn generates favorable word-of-mouth recommendations that attract new customers."

Toyota is almost the largest automaker in the world right now. For the company to achieve that goal, it has to continue coming up with great vehicles that consumers would surely come back for. Oddes expects the competition to heat up somewhere down the road so Toyota has to keep its lead in developing vehicles which are even more reliable that Dodge tie rod ends.

Oddes said: "Competition for a dwindling number of new-vehicle buyers will likely intensify in the next seven years, meaning that brands will need to retain more of their existing customers in order to increase, or even maintain, market share. In addition, it is approximately four times more costly to attain a new customer than it is to retain an existing one, so in the face of a very competitive new-vehicle market, a strong focus on customer retention becomes particularly important."

Toyota Flaunts Robo-Violinist

2007-12-07T05:41:00.000-08:00

Brace yourself; you can now witness a different musical experience…

Drum roll here. Let the trumpets sing their tune. But oh – I really wanted the sweet cadence of a violin. Any violinist out there?

Ah-hah, I can listen to Toyota’s human-sized robot that can play the violin! No need for music maestro eh!

Toyota’s latest push into robotics, after showing off a robot with dexterous fingers that can play the trumpet is a counterpart that plays the violin. The Japanese automaker earlier showcased a 5ft robot with 17 joints in each hand and arm performing a full rendition of Elgar's Pomp and Circumstance. The rendition was note perfect, but was described by some as “stilted.”

"Over the next two to three years, we will put the robots to the test through trial applications and see what kind of business possibilities they present," Toyota president Katsuaki Watanabe told The Guardian in an interview.

Toyota will test out its robots at hospitals, Toyota-related facilities and other places starting next year, he said. “And the company hopes to put what it calls "partner robots" to real use by 2010,” he added. "We want to create robots that are useful for people in everyday life."

Robotics will become a core business for Toyota by 2020. The company will unveil medical robots next year, and plans more advanced "partner robots" for domestic duties, nursing, healthcare and short-distance personal transport by 2010, reported VNUNet.com.

The report continued: “Toyota also showed off Robina, a wheeled robot with a human torso which has been working as a guide at Toyota's showroom in Tokyo for the past year, answering questions and signing autographs. A third design, dubbed Mobina, is a two-wheeled 4mph motorized wheelchair that can navigate a variety of surfaces for 13 miles between charges. The company also plans a version that acts as a porter.”

Toyota Executive Vice President Takeshi Uchiyamada said technology that Toyota has developed in industrial manufacturing and automotive engineering will "spiral up" into robots. "We hope to create a robot that highlights Toyota's strengths," he said.

Koji Endo, auto analyst with Credit Suisse in Tokyo, told the Associated Press it was still unclear whether Toyota's robotics will bear fruit as a real business. But he praised Toyota for trying to branch into new sectors, noting it's likely to produce innovations that will in the long run be a plus for its auto business.

Robotics is the next big thing. I’m sure of that. But before we bother ourselves with the probable improvements in the industry, let the robo-violinist impress us much. Think of fixing your Dodge thermostat? How about doing it later…

Toyota’s Brand New Start At Jerez

2007-12-06T01:02:00.000-08:00

It’s indeed going to be a brand new face for the Panasonic Toyota team in the upcoming 2008 season! Kamui Kobayashi, the newest driver, and third driver, Timo Glock, generated a new beginning for the team as they rolled out in Jerez, Spain for their latest test drive in preparation for the next season.

Motor Sport confirmed that it was the first time Glock and Kobayashi drove the TF107 racecar and its tailgate cables went perfectly well along their first test drive in Jerez.

"It was great to get back in a Formula 1 car again. Even though I don't officially become third driver until January, it feels like I have already begun my role and today I was able to learn a lot about the car. At the start of the day I was just trying to get comfortable with the car and the track and I was able to do a lot of laps which really helped me," says Kamui Kobayashi.

"In the afternoon I could work more on set-up and understanding the development parts on the car and I think we made some good progress,” added Kobayashi. “I enjoy working with the team and this test is great experience for me before I officially start as third driver next year. Now I can't wait to get back in the car tomorrow."

"It has been a very interesting experience to have two new drivers in the car today. We are very pleased to have Timo in the car and he has made a strong first impression. He is very focused and worked hard today to understand the car and make some improvements in set-up,” says Pascal Vasselon, Senior General Manager Chassis.

"As expected, he did a good job and provided solid feedback, which is very useful for us. He drove without driver aids today but that was no problem for him because of his experience in GP2 driving without traction is natural to him," added Vasselon.

Toyota Updates Development In Environmental Aspirations

2007-12-05T16:58:00.000-08:00

Yesterday, Toyota has updated the development on the way to their goals and objectives in the company’s latest 2011 Environmental Action Plan (EAP) for the first time. According to my source, the 2007 North America Environmental Report is Toyota’s particular hard work in six major regions of impact: Environmental Management, Energy and Climate Change, Air Quality, Substances of Concern, Recycling and Improved Resource Use, and Cooperation with Society.

"Toyota’s approach to reducing CO2 is far broader than just a commitment to fuel economy standards. We take these targets very seriously. Our environmental reports show a consistent history of achieving - and in many cases exceeding - our targets. We believe that the combination of actions we are taking will all play a part in meeting the challenges we all face," says Dian Ogilvie, the senior vice president of Toyota Motor North America.

The company’s eagerness for maintaining and exceeding environmental objectives in its innovative and renewable energy Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) was also confirmed yesterday. Toyota Motor Sales, USA, Inc. (TMS) partners with SunPower Corporation to set up a 2.28 megawatt solar electric power system at the top of the TMS Ontario (California) Parts Center.

The system will be funded and be in possession of a third-party investor under the SunPower AccessTM power acquisition contract program that will allow Toyota to benefit from the environmental and economic benefits of solar without open investment expenses. The photovoltaic (PV) system is projected to be the biggest single-roof solar power equipment in North America when completed in 2008 - way bigger than the Acura CL engine mount.

"The Governor’s award is really a reflection of Toyota’s overall approach to everything we do," said Ogilvie, upon receiving the award. The program recognizes individuals, organizations, and businesses that have demonstrated exceptional leadership and made notable contributions in conserving California’s precious resources, protecting and enhancing the environment, and building public-private partnerships.

Toyota Expects Better Season

2007-11-26T18:10:00.000-08:00

Although the Toyota Camry remains one of the most successful nameplates in the auto industry when it comes to sales and awards, it wasn't able to have a very good season in NASCAR's premiere series, the Nextel Cup Series. But Toyota is expecting to have a better season next year in what would be the Sprint Cup. The reason for Toyota's optimism is the addition of big names and the lessons that they have learned last season.

Jim Aust, president and Chief Executive Officer of Toyota Racing Development or TRD said: "Certainly, there will be some victories for Toyota next year. We're going from a hope or chance that we might win a race to we know we're going to win a race. It's just a matter of how many."

Before the end of this year's season, it was announced that Bill Davis Racing will be making the jump from Chevrolet to Toyota next season. That move means that high caliber drivers Tony Stewart, Denny Hamlin, and Kyle Busch will be racing Toyota Camry next season. That definitely increased the chance of Toyota securing its first win in NASCAR's premiere series. Stewart, Hamlin, and Busch finished qualified for the Chase last season. Between the three of them, they share six wins, 34 top-fives and 61 top-tens. That is really something that Toyota is looking forward to replicate next season.

Brian Vickers who was the best performer for Toyota this year with five top-ten finishes said; "Having Gibbs, an established top-caliber team come aboard does, to a certain extent, legitimize Toyota. It's going to bring us some fans, bring some notoriety and I think it's going to help the other (Toyota) teams."

Bill Davis meanwhile had this to say according to USA Today. "For the guys that are out of the top 35, it's incredibly hard to race. Your whole deal is about qualifying on Friday. It's your entire preparation. That makes it real hard to be successful on Saturday and Sunday."

With the arrival of Bill Davis Racing within Toyota's fold, we can expect a Camry to probably win next season. TRD will no doubt equip their cars next season with racing parts as reliable as Volkswagen Golf distributor rotors.

Toyota Reveals A New Driving Stimulator

2007-11-26T17:46:00.000-08:00

The famous Japanese car maker reveals the very first true to life driving simulator to increase the safety features installed on Toyota cars. This new driving stimulator helps decrease the amount of road accidents and traffic deaths.

To support the new advocacy, the Toyota Motor Corporation held a demonstration of the latest system they just discovered. The test happened at the Higashifuji Technical Centre near Mt. Fuji, south of Tokyo. The Japanese car maker have invited lots of journalists to see and witness the reality of the new system that boosts a car’s safety during a drive specially if the driver has had a high dosage of alcohol and is drowsy. The new system supports all the safety features installed on these Toyota cars like the brake system and sensation of accelerating. It is precise that the new system works like the quality of a Volkswagen Beetle radiator.

The new system is 4.5 meters tall and 7.1 meters wide pod that has this particular screen that shows how the car is moving. It also includes the surroundings as well as the environment where your car is. The screen gives the driver and the passengers the illusion of moving on the road.

The new system was completed last September and Toyota allowed reporters to the pod to try for themselves the new system. It has moving graphics and a true to life representation of a real road creating an environment that the driver is actually driving the car. The new system was real enough that even the spectators feel the car moving although the car was stationary.

The new system will definitely save any drunk drivers. According to some engineers, the new system will be the system of the future for it can reduce the risk of car accidents on the road.

Toyota Dedicated To Maintain Tradition

2007-11-21T17:28:00.000-08:00

We all know that Toyota is on the verge of being the world's largest automaker. Last year, they have surpassed General Motors in terms of sales. And next year, Toyota is expected to outperform General Motors in terms of production. But even with that goal in sight and within reach, the automaker is not resting on its laurels and start getting complacent.

Well, there are some recalls for Toyota vehicles but they are somewhat tolerable and can be explained easily. With the automaker producing more and more vehicles, they are still in the process of adapting their system to massive production. But given time, the automaker will no doubt once again be known for its reliable and quality vehicles. This is one thing that Toyota is working on.

Another issue that Toyota is focusing on is maintaining their tradition. Toyota is known for its system based on the way Japanese do things. They have their own culture which has been the root of their success in the auto industry. But the company is hiring more and more foreigners who may not know the Toyota culture. So Toyota is educating them on how Toyota works in order to keep the tradition alive.

Even management employees who have been working on the industry for years are educated by having them work on the assembly line. This move will ingrain into their mind what the Toyota culture is all about. The company place a lot of emphases on the way things are done within the company from the board room to the factory floor where auto parts like Toyota exhaust parts are manufactured and installed on vehicles.

Even long-time employees are still subjected to education regarding the Toyota Way. Retired executives and engineers of the company are still being paid by the automaker to advise their successor. These steps will surely make Toyota a stronger automaker in the future.

Glock Gets Toyota Seat

2007-11-20T23:44:00.000-08:00

Who do you want to replace Ralf Schumacher?

As for me, Timo Glock is quite good for the team. Glock is said to trail the steps of McLaren Mercedes rookie Lewis Hamilton. After graduating as GP2 series champion, he is headed to F1, where he will race with Toyota for the upcoming season.

"It's a great feeling to be a Formula One race driver again and I am really looking forward to this new challenge," Glock said in an interview The Press Association.

"I have worked hard over the past few years to get this opportunity and I must say I am grateful to Panasonic Toyota Racing for having faith in me," added Glock. "From what I have seen of the team at the track I am confident we will be able to work well together to move forward. Even though I have not raced in Formula One since 2004, I have tested quite regularly so I expect it will take very little time for me to get back in the groove.

"Of course, to return to Formula 1 racing as GP2 Series champion is a real honour and we've all seen how well Nico Rosberg and Lewis Hamilton have performed as champions so that is very encouraging. I hope I can also make a strong impression next season."

Wikipedia has this to say about Glock:

Glock made his F1 debut at the Canadian Grand Prix in 2004 - in which he finished 11th but inherited 7th following the disqualification of the Williams and Toyota cars - he finished the season for Jordan Grand Prix, taking over from Giorgio Pantano for the last three races. Glock's sponsorship with Deutsche Post helped bring the colors of DHL to Jordan.

In 2006 he tested an F1 car again for BMW Sauber, which led to him being signed as the team's second test driver for 2007. Following the serious crash of regular BMW driver Robert Kubica in Canada, it was speculated that Glock could take over the drive. However, the team chose Sebastian Vettel to substitute instead. However, with Vettel joining Toro Rosso from the Hungarian Grand Prix onwards, Glock has been promoted to the main test and reserve driver for BMW.

After winning Formula One's feeder GP2 Series in 2007, he was connected to several F1 teams. This resulted in him signing a contract with Toyota F1 whilst still having a test driver contract with BMW, which in turn led to the case being brought before the Contract Recognition Board. On November 16, the CRB ruled that Glock was free to race for Toyota in 2008 and on November 19, 2007.

Glock signed a 3-year contract with Toyota. His teammate will be Italian Jarno Trulli.

"I am convinced Timo has the potential to help this team move forward and achieve its aims," concluded Tadashi Yamashina, Toyota team principal.

Additionally, the team announced that the new TF108 will be unveiled at its team factory at Cologne in Germany.

Three New Members For Toyota’s North American Diversity Advisory Board

2007-11-15T17:49:00.000-08:00

Toyota has added three new members to its North American Diversity Advisory Board and this event was announced yesterday. It was proclaimed during its 18th annual Opportunity Exchange (OE) minority business conference and trade fair.

According to TheAutoChannel.com, OE is intended to give alternative business enterprises (MBEs) across the country with the chance to associate and expand relationships with around 300 of Toyota Tier I suppliers as a component of the country’s biggest minority business events. OE has produced more than $100 million in new deals since 1990.

The Advisory Board was established almost six years ago. The board gives external points of view and leadership to Toyota and generates clear objectives for Toyota’s efforts and dedication to development inclusion and assortment in the workplace. The Advisory Board provides unlimited support to the company like what dependable Saturn shocks do!

"Toyota believes that diversity and inclusion are essential to our long-term success," said Dian Ogilvie, the Senior Vice President of Toyota Motor North America. "Our Diversity Advisory Board's invaluable guidance, service and dedication for the past half decade have led to a number of significant achievements for our company. The Board is imperative to our efforts, helping move us forward in the right direction."

Lexus Tops J.D. Power Ranking

2007-11-15T17:34:00.000-08:00

We know that with a Lexus car, you can be the envy of your neighborhood. Although the brand does not have the long history like other luxury car brands like Mercedes-Benz and BMW, it is showing to the world that it is really one of the best marques out there. It has topped the list of reliable automakers time and time again. And now, the luxury division of Toyota has another feather to add to its cap as it topped J.D. Power and Associates' ranking of automakers based on their performance in dealing with consumers.

J.D. Power has always been known to be one of most respected names in the business and having the company rank Lexus first is a great achievement for the Japanese luxury brand. The study focused on five factors which are: salesperson, dealerships facility, delivery process, vehicle price, and paperwork/finance process.

On a 1,000-point scale Lexus gained 897 points. This is ten points better than what they got last year. This is the second straight year that Lexus has outperformed all automakers in this study which has been conducted by J.D. Power and Associates for the 21^st year. Behind Lexus are Hummer, Jaguar, Lincoln, and Mercedes-Benz according to the report from The Auto Channel.

Tom Gauer of J.D. Power has this to say about Lexus' success in satisfying their consumers: "Lexus improves by four rank positions from 2006, which is a gain driven primarily by increased customer delight with the dealership facility, salesperson performance and vehicle price. For example, Lexus salespeople show particular concern for helping customers stay within their budgets, choosing the right vehicle for their needs, as well as for making the negotiation process clear and understandable."

Apart from having the best practices in dealing with consumers, Lexus is also known for the durability of their products which are as tough as Toyota shocks on a Tundra.

Self-Parking Lexus Sells!

2007-11-13T16:30:00.000-08:00

It seems like self-parking cars are a big hit. Yes, take Lexus LS600hL. There are 2 versions of the car, priced between $225,000 and $250,000. Regardless of the price it is sold out until mid next year in Australia.

The Intelligent Parking Assistance system is standard on the new Lexus LS600hL, which also happens to be the world's first gasoline-electric hybrid limo. The reverse, or parallel parking system, works by using a camera and a series of radar sensors in the bumpers. When the car pulls up alongside an empty parking space, the system can determine if the vehicle will fit in the gap between the two other parked cars, and then steer itself into position at the press of a button, said Sydney Morning Herald. The system operates "hands free" but the driver still needs to be alert all to time especially when he needs to apply the brakes.

Sixty-three customers have placed orders but only five cars will be imported into Australia each month because of demand in other countries.

"No, it doesn't mean you're a bad driver," said the boss of Lexus Australia, John Roca. "People who buy this car are interested in technology. They may not necessarily use park assist but they want to know they have the latest gadget."

Lexus, the luxury division of Toyota, initially had public liability concerns, which is why the Australian introduction was delayed for two years.

"The driver, naturally, must continue to exercise all due care and diligence when using the parking system," the company warns. "[The parking system] is designed as a driver-assist device only and should not be used as a substitute for skilled driving and safe parking practices. The driver should watch the area into which the vehicle is to be reversed."

The self-parking Lexus has other world-first technology, such as rear seats which have a massage function and can recline like business-class aircraft seats. The air-conditioning measures the body temperature of the occupants and adjusts the car's temperature accordingly. And the headlight bulbs are designed to see around corners, as well as outlast the life of the vehicle.

Eleven in total, the limo has more airbags than most other vehicle of its kind. Airbags include 2 under-thigh airbags in the rear to prevent pelvic and abdominal injuries in a crash.

How does the feature work?

*Rear camera and ultrasonic sensors on front bumper identify space between two parked cars.

*Calculates correct steering angle to guide vehicle into space.

*Driver can control speed with brake pedal.

But the technology could be available on more affordable cars within the next couple of years. Additionally, the self-parking technology is likely to be available on the next-gen Toyota Prius petrol-electric hybrid car, which is due in about 2 years. Priced from an estimated $45,000, the car is made remarkably affordable.

Lentz Named President

2007-11-08T18:40:00.000-08:00

Toyota recently named Jim Lentz as the president of Toyota Motor Sales USA. Lentz held the position of executive vice president prior to the appointment. Lentz will play a key role in the expansion of Toyota in the auto market in the United States. The automaker is expected to outdo General Motors next year in terms of production. Lentz has to find a way to make their vehicles more attractive to car buyers if they want to increase production. He will be spearheading the sales of Toyota, Lexus, and Scion vehicles in the United States.

Lentz has been with the Japanese automaker since 1982 and has held various positions before reaching his current post. As Toyota believes that it would be better to get their top-level executives from home-grown employees, Lentz is just one of many top-level executives who has climbed the ladder of success inside Toyota.

Yuki Funo, chairman of Toyota Moto Sales had this to say about Lentz in a written statement: "Jim Lentz is especially well qualified to lead TMS into the future as it marks 50 years in America. His experience spans all major operational areas and he has an outstanding sense of what our customers, dealers and associates expect from Toyota."

The United States auto market is key to success in the auto industry as it is the largest auto market in the world. Lentz will be serving a post which is as important to Toyota as a Volvo 760 radiator is to a Volvo 760.

Earlier this year, Toyota has been rocked with top level executives jumping ship and joining rival automakers. The biggest name to have jumped ship is Jim Press, Toyota's main man in North America before his defection to Chrysler.

2009 Toyota Matrix Officially Unveiled!

2007-11-07T18:09:00.000-08:00

The Matrix is back with lots of surprises with the 2009 model! The 2009 Matrix has finally arrived and new car shoppers will be delighted when they get to see what the 2009 Matrix could offer to all car fans out there! I’ve already seen the beauty of the ’09 Matrix, now it’s time for you to see for yourself the best stuff that I’m talking about. So stop cleaning those filthy Dodge floor mats and check out the brand new Matrix that will soon arrive in Toyota dealerships worldwide!

"The Matrix concept was based on blending the functionality of an SUV, the style, image and performance of a sports car with the affordability of a subcompact sedan. For 2009, it’s all that, and more. It may have the body of a five-door hatch, but it comes with the soul of a two-door sports car," says Tim Morrison, Toyota Division corporate marketing manager.

The advancement of the 2009 Matrix concentrated on a superior exterior coupe-like design along with a sophisticated interior function and enhanced active performance. It was molded into a wider vehicle with a lower standpoint compared to the present model. However, interior space remained the same. The design resulted into a sporty, vibrant form that includes space for five passengers to ride in convenience.

The theme is graceful and lively as a result of the major changes made to the Matrix’s figure. The styling conveys a coupe-like style and a low center of gravity with a fun-to-drive character.

Toyota Considers Making Heavy-Duty Pick Up

2007-11-05T16:16:00.000-08:00

The AIADA newsletter reports that the Toyota Motor Corporation showed a new truck at the Specialty Equipment Market Association show last week. The Japanese car maker parked a new kind of truck which displays a wild tuner car in the form of the Tundra Diesel Dually. This is a new concept car coming from the Japanese car maker famous because of its Tundra truck.

The new car concept is called the “Tundra Diesel Dually Project Truck” and it is also regarded as the "Road Warrior" with a new line and luxury interior. Just like the Saturn wiper blade, the new truck is filled with gorgeous tune ups. The Toyota Tundra CrewMax diesel dual project truck was seen at the 2007 SEMA Show.

The new truck was given a medium duty diesel power plant plucked from a 35,000-pound commercial truck replacing the Tundra light duty pickup's stock engine. Toyota affiliate Hino was the one to make the 8.0-liter inline six-cylinder high-torque engine. Toyota Motorsports Technical Group also gavethe modified beefed-up driveline to the new Tundra truck.

The new engine provider ensures that the powertrain under its hood is filled with more power. Other car parts given to the new truck includes forged aluminum alloy 22.5-inch wheels custom made by Alcoa, the diamond plate-lined bed as well as the charcoal gray metallic flat paint finish. The fifth wheel is also given 24,000 pounds.

The new truck displays a muscular image with its interior dramatically given a luxurious image. The parts like the hand-sewn ginger leather seats, headliner and dual rear captain's chairs, suede pillars and the individual DVD entertainment systems would be something anybody would love to have.

Theautochannel.com gives these following partners who helped pursue Toyota’s plan:

Engineering by Motorsports Technical Group
Interior by Fast Ed's Interiors
Paint by Focus on Cars
Wheels by Alcoa
Power steps and fuel door by Amp Research
Sound system by Kenwood
Sound installation by Beach Auto Sound
Lighting by PIAA
Exhaust by Magnaflow
5th wheel hitch by Reese

Greener Prius Soon

2007-10-29T19:08:00.000-07:00

If you ask somebody to name a hybrid vehicle, more often than not, the answer would be the Toyota Prius. The hybrid vehicle has given the world a glimpse of the future when vehicles will not be producing as much greenhouse gas as they once do.

The Launching of the Toyota Prius in the United States auto market may not be as lavish as the launch of the Edsel back in the days. But sales of the Prius have forced American automakers to seriously think about developing a vehicle which will be as green and as clean as the Prius. Thus, the race is on. The contest to create the cleanest and most fuel efficient vehicle is getting hotter and Toyota is undoubtedly leading the field.

The new generation Prius can be expected to be greener that what they are today. Toyota is not a company that will rest on their laurels. The Japanese automaker has shown the world time and time again that they are ready to take on the competition and come out victorious. With the Prius, Toyota has made their presence felt in the green auto industry and it is only fitting that the next generation of the Prius will take Toyota to the next level.

What can we expect from the Prius? I, for one is expecting the Prius to have a more efficient battery pack. Although the nickel-metal hydride batteries that the Prius is currently using helps a lot in making the car greener, the future of the Prius and other vehicles counting on electricity for power are lithium-ion batteries. Toyota is already in the process of developing a Li-ion battery pack which will be used on the Prius.

Earlier this year, the automaker has announced that they have already created a prototype of a plug-in gas electric vehicle. The vehicles are being tested and expect the Li-ion batteries to be improved by the automaker as they move closer to the production of PHEVs. These PHEVs is the future of the auto industry and expect to become available to consumers in the near future like VW mass air flow sensors.

Jarno Trulli Looks Back At The Brazilian GP

2007-10-26T19:11:00.000-07:00

It was indeed a disappointing season for Panasonic Toyota after leaving every event empty-handed in carrying out their campaign for the world championship. The Brazilian GP wrapped up the recent season of F1 World championship and the event was definitely hot as the Toyota Cressida radiator! Panasonic Toyota’s driver Jarno Trulli looks back at the Brazilian Grand Prix after finishing 8th place while teammate Ralf Schumacher finished 11th. After the season-finale in Brazil, here’s what Jarno Trulli had to say courtesy of motorsport.com:

Toyota's Jarno Trulli looks back at the Brazilian Grand Prix weekend:

Q: Eighth place in Brazil, was that a positive end to the season?
Jarno Trulli: Yes, it was a positive result for me. The team has worked very hard all season but it had been a long time since we finished in the top eight for various reasons. It was good to finish the season back in the points and it gives us extra motivation as we work towards next season.

Q: How did the weekend go as a whole?
JT: For me the weekend actually started with quite a difficult Friday. From the start of practice I was not comfortable with the car and we seemed to have a few problems. The balance was okay but we just couldn't seem to make the tyres work to their best. The wet track obviously did not help but we could see from Ralf's performance that the conditions were not the only problem.

Q: Were you happy with your qualifying performance?
JT: The car looked quite strong in qualifying so I was happy with that and I was pleased to be in 8th. We had no problems getting through Q1 and even though Q2 is always tight I was happy with my lap, which got me through to Q3 without any trouble. I think my final flying lap was pretty good considering our strategy and 8th wasn't a bad result.

Q: You went with a three-stop strategy for the race, did that work out?
JT: The choice was to either go for two stops or run longer with the option tyre than ideally you would want to, or do an extra stop but use the option tyre less. I was not comfortable with using the super soft option tyre for a long period as we had encountered quite a lot of graining in practice so we decided to gamble on three stops. It was a risk because we spent more time in the pits than those on two stops so I had to keep up a good pace to stay in the fight for points. I think we made the right decision and we were rewarded with a decent result.

Zimmerman’s Experience With The Prius

2007-10-23T19:34:00.000-07:00

Toyota Motor Corp. sells more hybrids than any other automaker thanks to its reputation as the leader of such technology. But a number of critics are questioning the Japanese automaker’s commitment to plug-ins as well as other modern fuel-efficient powertrain systems.

With the auto media descending on its home market for this week’s Tokyo Motor Show, Toyota decided to demonstrate its cutting edge vehicle – the Prius.

The Prius use a traditional petrol engine as the primary power source. A small, battery-powered electric motor powers the car for very short distances at low speeds, and provides extra power at higher speeds. The edge of the Prius, at least, is the highest MPG rating of any mass-produced car in the United States.

One of the lucky auto journalists to experience the Prius plug-in hybrid is Martin Zimmerman. He writes:

I had to go to Japan to do it, but I finally got my hands on a plug-in hybrid. The cars were equipped with nickel-metal hydride battery packs that are about twice the size of the ones in the current-generation Prius.

The Priuses at the test track could be operated in two modes: electric only or hybrid with an electric-only capability. (Unlike those sold in the U.S., Priuses marketed in Japan already have an electric-only option, although the range is just a mile or so at very low speeds.)

When in hybrid mode, Toyota's plug-in system is designed to switch out of electric-only operation whenever it's confronted with a heavy demand for power -- maintaining speed up a steep hill, for example, or when dealing with a driver equipped with a crash helmet and a lead foot.

A second test ride in a different Prius test car resulted in the kind of torque-y acceleration electric motors are known for, speeding smoothly and quickly up to 50 mph or so, at which point an extra dose of throttle caused the gas engine to kick in -- as expected. And this time, almost as soon as the pressure was eased on the gas pedal, the car went back into electric-only operation, just as it was supposed to.

To get maximum electric-only efficiency, it seemed, the trick was to accelerate with a bit of restraint up to the electric motor's top speed of around 62 mph, thereby avoiding the sudden (and admittedly satisfying) burst of acceleration that can cause the gasoline engine to needlessly take charge.

Truth be told, I think I was a bit spoiled by the hydrogen fuel cell Toyota Highlander I tried out just before the Prius test runs. The mid-size SUV, powered solely by an electric motor, displayed very un-SUV-like oomph as I pushed it past 50 mph. It was smooth as silk and brimming with torque.

Zimmerman’s pretty lucky. I wish I had his luck (wishful thinking).

Who's Glock?

2007-10-18T19:17:00.000-07:00

The Brazilian Grand Prix is just around the corner and Toyota Formula One fans are aware already that Ralf Schumacher will be leaving the team. What team will he be driving for next season is something we still don't know though. With his departure, there's the question who will replace him as Jarno Trulli's teammate next season. For me, there are three possibilities, one is Fernando Alonso who might be moving out of McLaren after he has been upstaged by his rookie teammate. Another one is Nico Rosberg, the young guy has shown his skills and Toyota can afford him for sure. And the third guy who is the most likely to be signed by Toyota is Timo Glock.

Recently, Jonathan Noble writing for autopsort.com interviewed the newly crowned GP2 champ. When asked what is the situation on his return to Formula One, Glock had this to say: "I would say the possibilities are better than in the last two or three years. Where the journey will go will depend on the next one or two weeks. It looks quite positive and I hope we can get a result out of it and be back in F1 next year as a race driver."

It is interesting to note that Toyota is interested in Rosberg who is driving for Williams and Williams is also interested in signing Glock, or so it seems. Asked if it is possible that he will be driving for Toyota, Glock answered: "There are one or two possibilities, yeah. But Toyota is one possibility and I would lie if I didn't say that Toyota and Williams are definitely possibilities."

The German driver pointed out that he is not choosy, and he only wants to drive next season in Formula One. "I just want to race next year. I am just looking forward to getting a race seat. Both teams have quite good possibilities for the future, so let's see and hope that we get a race seat for next year." If Glock goes with Toyota, I'm sure that the team can give him a car that will be of high performance and even powerful than road-bound Audi turn signal-equipped R8.

Glock summed up his year saying: "I knew that we would be strong in GP2 and that there was definitely a possibility to make your way back in F1. But at the end you never believe in it. Standing here right now it is something that has put me in a comfortable situation. But I don't believe in it until I sit in the car and drive out in Melbourne for the first time. So we have to wait and see."

More Teen Safety Driving Tips

2007-10-17T16:45:00.000-07:00

Safe Auto Insurance Company president Jon Diamond joins the campaign towards keeping teenage drivers safe. He is aware that teenagers are the most potential people to be in danger during drives and that is the reason why he participated in a video campaign for television on keeping these teens safe on the road. The president appears on the WXIX-TV's feature for the campaign called Street Safe Teens an ongoing campaign that has dialogues between parents and teenagers.

Diamond was quoted saying, "When it comes to safety, teenage drivers have more than just inexperience against them. The average car a teenager drives is more than ten years old. These are cars that can have more problems with breakdowns and require additional maintenance."

A survey was held before the Safe Auto Insurance Company released the particular tips. The survey was held in June 2007 during a free roadside assistance program. In Ohio, the top three reasons for the drivers requesting road side assistance were flat tires, vehicle lockouts and vehicle breakdowns.

He continues, "The survey shows that break downs happen, and they happen often. It just goes to show how important it is for all drivers, but especially those who are just learning the ropes to know how to handle these situations, and more importantly, how to avoid them."

Theautochannel.com has this list on their official website:

Diamond recommends that teen drivers:
1. Keep up with preventative maintenance. Monitor their car to make sure the oil level is adequate and the tire pressure isn't low.
2. Keep the number for roadside assistance with them at all times. Program it into a cell phone or keep it in the glove compartment.
3. If they do experience a breakdown: don't panic. Pull off to the side of the road - as far out of the way of traffic as possible. Put flares around the car for safety. Then, make the first call to a roadside assistance program. If they don't have roadside assistance, call someone who can come help.

He also give more emphasis on parents as well as experienced drivers to teach teens the most important things about driving as well as the basic thing about matters under the hood. They should also learn how to be a responsible driver.

"It sounds very elementary, but it's the little things like tire pressure and regular oil changes that will keep an older car running and keep younger drivers from being stranded on the side of the road," Diamond finally said.

Toyota Pays Tribute To Its Roots

2007-10-10T19:40:00.000-07:00

The Tokyo Motor Show is just around the corner and anticipation is high. Being a motor show in Japan, Japanese automakers are expected to come out with the best concept cars. Toyota, the largest Japanese automaker, and soon to be the world's largest automaker is expected to come out with something that will be an attention-grabber. And I am sure that Toyota will deliver.

AP reported recently that for the Tokyo Motor Show, Toyota is going back to its roots. And by that, it means that we can expect Japanese themes to be integrated to Toyota's concept car. According to the report, one of the concept vehicles that Toyota will unveil at the upcoming event is a single-seat vehicle with sensors. The Japanese automaker is also slated to unveil a car that was designed to blend harmoniously with nature.

The event is slated to open its doors to the public on the 27th of this month. Automotive journalists though were given a sneak peak by the Japanese automaker. The Tokyo Motor Show has the reputation of being the place where one can see truly amazing concept cars which are so futuristic that one can only drool while looking at them.

Toyota's general manager Tetsuya Kaida said that they are trying to show consumers and the auto industry as a whole that they are different from American and European automakers. And the Japanese culture is what differs between them thus it is obviously an easy decision for the automaker to make. "This is about the Way of the Car, much like tea ceremony and flower arrangement," said Kaida referring to their new concept vehicles.

One of the vehicles previewed by the automaker is called the Rin. The concept vehicle looks like a toy actually. According to AP, the Rin has a transparent floor and huge windows and doors which slide open like "shoji" screens. Toyota calls the blending of the car to nature as a soothing ride. Unfortunately, unlike Audi steering racks that can be bought online, the Rin will not be sold anytime soon. Being a concept car, it will only serve as a vehicle where Toyota can test design and technological features that will be used on future vehicles.

According to Kaida, vehicles of today are being viewed by many as a "nuisance". This is because of the growing threat of global warming. Toyota wants this view of vehicles to be more positive. And by showcasing these cars designed with a touch of Mother Nature's ingenuity, they are looking to change the perception of people towards cars. This message coming from the world's largest producer of green cars might change how we look at cars today.

Toyota Launches A Japanese Corolla Rumion

2007-10-09T17:23:00.000-07:00

Toyota certainly does not have the GMC Canada as a part of the cars they make. However, even if their car parts weren’t as expensive as those that General Motors Corporation has made, the Japanese car maker still sells because of the quality and value found in their vehicles.

Now, the Japanese car maker is doing another version of its world famous Toyota Corolla. Last Tuesday, the Toyota Motor Corporation made an announcement that they will be launching a special version of Corolla in Japan which will add Rumion to its name. The Corolla Rumion is a slightly modified version of the 2008 Scion xB in the US car market.

According to the Japanese car maker, they are targeting monthly sales of 3,500 units for the Corolla Rumion which is going to wear the price tag of $14,350 for the base X grade front-wheel-drive model and $19,750 for the four-wheel-drive S Aero Tourer model as released by Edmunds.com.

In the US, the 2008 Scion xB has a starting base price of $16,270 which also includes the $620 destination charge for the model. It comes with a 158-horsepower 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine matched to its five-speed manual transmission. A four-wheel drive is not available for the Scion xB.

The new Corolla Rumion is made with two four-cylinder engine choices which are the 1.5-liter and 1.8-liter. The first 1.8-liter version is matched on a seven-speed Sports Sequential Shiftmatic transmission while the 1.8-liter S Tourer model is given a paddle shift-type shift lever.

The exterior design is also given the squarish lines of the Scion xB but has been added with more dramatic styles compared to the present Scion xB which is seen to have a lowered grille. The 1.8-liter liter engine is found on the Corolla Rumion S Aero Tourer and the 1.5-liter was given to the G Aero Tourer. Both have front and rear spoilers as well as a rear roof spoiler and side mud guards.

Toyota's Green Credo: Fading?

2007-10-05T01:16:00.000-07:00

The name Toyota is synonymous with environment-friendly cars. The Japanese automaker has established not just an outstanding reputation with regards to auto parts like shocks and product lines; it has also inked a remarkable status in the manufacture of hybrids. Anyway, what good is Prius’ popularity huh?

Natural Resources Defense Council and other environmental groups are challenging the automakers’ opposition to strict fuel mandates. Also, the Union of Concerned Scientists and the National Environmental Trust are mobilizing to challenge the Japanese automaker.

"As the world's largest auto maker and inventor of the best-selling hybrid car on the market, Toyota has a responsibility to lead, follow or get out of the way as Congress debates the first substantial fuel-economy boost in decades," said Deron Lovaas, NRDC's vehicles campaign director.

But at present, the automaker’s “green credo” is challenged by furious campaigners here in the United States. The National Resources Defense Council, an environmental group, said last Tuesday that it had forwarded more than 8,100 messages from backers to Toyota criticizing its stance in the fuel economy debate.

The protest emails and faxes urge Toyota to support a Senate energy bill that would set a 35 miles-per-gallon requirement on vehicles by 2020, The Independent added. The Japanese automaker and the Big 3 - GM, Ford and Chrysler - are lobbying for a more modest 32 mpg by 2022. So far, that requirement is the least harmful to the industry. They oppose a Senate bill setting a 35 mile-per-gallon standard by 2020, favoring an easier standard proposed in the House.

While Toyota's 46 m.p.g. Prius hybrid has become a top seller and given Toyota a green cachet credo, it maintains the Senate bill is too tough. The Japanese automaker has been expanding its truck sales in the U.S. thus shares Big 3’s concerns. The Senate bill is expected to lump cars and trucks together, making the target unreachable without limiting production and sales.

Toyota has partnered with other automakers to fight more stringent proposals on Capitol Hill. "For the first time, the industry has actually come together for a fuel economy increase, and everyone is pulling together in the same direction. Toyota is working very hard behind the scenes to achieve the best standards possible, not only for the whole industry but to meet the energy and environmental goals that we all share," said Toyota’s spokesperson.

The House proposal sets "a huge number by any estimate, and a number comparable to the competing, but far less technologically feasible, proposals," Irv Miller, Toyota's group vice president for corporate communications told Detroit Free Press.

Lovaas started the online drive a couple of weeks ago, saying the House bill didn't go far enough. "Toyota is now the world's largest automaker, so they bear some additional responsibility," Lovaas said. "They're out there with their green halo, justifiably touting their technology with the Prius. The question is why the inconsistency in terms of their issues on policy."

Now is Toyota living up to its image as a green auto manufacturer?

It's Bye-Bye Ralf

2007-10-02T19:00:00.000-07:00

After almost three seasons with Toyota Formula One, German driver Ralf Schumacher announced that he will be leaving the team. The German Formula One driver said last week prior to the Japanese Grand Prix that he is talking with other teams concerning possible employment for the next season. In his stint with Toyota he only finished on the podium three times, one of those coming at the Australian Grand Prix last year and two in his first year with Toyota. All of those podium finishes are in third place.

Toyota Formula One team president John Howett said that Ralf's decision does not affect Toyota's stand. The newcomer to the sport is still looking at other drivers and Schumacher's decision to leave the team only eliminates him from the team's choices. Italian Jarno Trulli is set to stay with the team for the next season. Schumacher is one of the most talented drivers today and it would be hard to find a replacement for him. But I think that Toyota will not have a hard time as many open-wheel racing standouts in other formulae are making their presence felt in the Formula One world.

Timo Glock, BMW's test driver and recently crowned GP2 champion, is rumored to be the next teammate of Trulli in Toyota. The driver has shown a lot of talent in the GP2 season as well as in his test driving duties for BMW Sauber. Although Glock is considered as a good choice for Toyota, the team is not expected to sign him immediately. The reason is Fernando Alonso. The double world champion is rumored to be thinking about leaving his current team McLaren after his squabbles with teammate Lewis Hamilton was never resolved. If Alonso announced that he will be leaving McLaren, I'm sure that Toyota and other teams will be lining up to secure the services of the Spanish Formula One superstar. The driver will be as hot as a VW fog light on if he decides to leave McLaren.

Two races remain for the current Formula One season, the Chinese and the Brazilian Grands Prix. Although Ralf is on his way out, I think that he will be professional enough to still try his best to score points for the team in the last two races. Toyota is currently sixth in the constructors' championship with only twelve points. Ferrari was crowned the champion for this year already after championship leader McLaren was disqualified after the Ferrari spying scandal.

Panasonic Toyota: Confident At Fuji

2007-10-01T20:12:00.000-07:00

We’re down to only one sleep, and tomorrow, the stage is set for the Japanese Grand Prix race day! Talking about the Land of the Rising Sun, Panasonic Toyota is apparently the home team of this event! Do you believe in home court advantage when F1 races are on the stake? I think so… I believe my favorite F1 team will have a blast tomorrow and I wish them lots of luck!

Anyway, because of too much anticipation about the Japanese GP, I can’t stand the urge to check on them regularly. Yesterday, I visited http://www.motorsports.com/ to see if their just doing well in their tests and practices. They are quite confident about the track and I believe they can win this time, agree?

Here are the stuffs I got from the site… some of the insights from Panasonic Toyota team. Read along and enjoy! Wish them luck as well. Now it’s time for me to go out and fix my Saturn spark plug wires for good!

Jarno Trulli:
"Today was a positive start to the weekend. We put a lot of effort into our set-up programme, as well as looking at the tyres. It was a smooth day but we still need to do a bit of work on the car balance and, of course, we will be pushing hard to get even more speed from the car. The circuit did not have much grip today which was as expected but it is in a good condition and the facilities are great - everything looks good here."

"We are here in Japan for our home Grand Prix so we are working hard to have a good weekend. We are very motivated this weekend and I really hope we can get the best out of the car. I am confident about our chances and tomorrow I expect again to be fighting in the top 10 in qualifying."

Ralf Schumacher:
"The afternoon session went well after a bit of a problem with oversteer in the morning. The track conditions were tricky because of the low grip but that did gradually improve during the afternoon and the situation was the same for everybody. I must say I am impressed by the circuit here at Fuji Speedway. As a track it is nice and drivable, with an unusual last section."

"The facilities are obviously very good as well and I particularly enjoy racing in Japan after I spent a season racing Formula Nippon here. I am focused on getting a positive result this weekend and confident we have the opportunity to do that."

Dieter Gass - Chief Engineer Race and Test:
"Fuji Speedway is a new track to Formula 1 and we are very pleased to be here, with such fantastic facilities. In terms of the circuit itself, what we found today was pretty much as expected from our simulations. It took a while to rubber in and it was evolving throughout the sessions which made set-up work a little trickier."

3 Toyota Camrys At Dover!

2007-09-24T17:14:00.000-07:00

This coming Sunday, hold on to your seats and better tie those Acura belts as tight as you can because three Toyota Camrys will sweep the tracks as the green flag waves across the starting line at the Dover International Speedway event! I went to Toyota NASCAR’s pit pass awhile ago. And I mean over at www.toyota.com.pitpass where I found this great piece of news! I know Toyota fans like me will be delighted by this great NASCAR update!

According to the source, three Toyota Camrys will start in the top 20 in Sunday's NASCAR Nextel Cup Series (NNCS) race at the Dover International Speedway. Toyota will have a total of five cars to take the green flag. Toyota’s prolific driver AJ Allmendinger got the best starting position of the Camrys qualifying 11th in the 43-car field. On the other hand, Jimmie Johnson got his second pole honor of the 2007 season and 11th of his career with a lap of 23.261 seconds (154.765 mph). This marks Johnson's first pole highlight at the one-mile Delaware oval in his 211 NNCS career starts.

"I really didn't know what to expect for that lap, following his qualifying lap. Basically we had a bungee cord holding the car in fourth gear. First of all I have to thank my guys for working so hard - they were really down because they couldn't get me back out in practice, but the motor was just destroyed. We had to put everything brand new in there so there were just no way we we’re getting back out there. I have to thank BV (Brian Vickers) and all his guys because that was his set-up in the car," says AJ Allmendinger.

All three of the Camrys fielded by Michael Waltrip Racing will also start Sunday's 400-lap race for the fifth time this season. David Reutimann will start 13th in his No. 00 Domino's Camry, Dale Jarrett will start 19th in his No. 44 UPS Camry and Michael Waltrip will start 43rd in his No. 55 NAPA Camry. Fellow Team Red Bull driver, Brian Vickers, will start the race 23rd in his No. 83 Red Bull Camry. Jarrett will mark his 42nd career start at the 'Monster Mile' and with a challenging season so far. Jarrett was able to have some pleasure during yesterday’s qualifying session.

"This is the same car that we brought here in the race this season and we qualified pretty well in that race - ran well until something went through the radiator following his qualifying lap. I was looking forward to coming back here - I was telling the guys that this was a really fun lap when you have a good race car. It's not so much fun if you're not running well, but we have a good car this weekend and that lap was a lot of fun. You can really get through the corner fast and come off the corner really fast," says Dale Jarrett.

Schumacher’s Day at Jerez

2007-09-20T02:13:00.000-07:00

Ralf Schumacher has a great day last September 19 on his test at Jerez as he continues the three-day test of Panasonic Toyota Racing on the race track. The test was in connection with preparation towards the battle of racers from Brazil, China and Japan this forth coming Japanese Grand Prix which is going to happen on the Fuji Speedway.

He was able to attain this result after before the day ended:

Chassis: TF107/06
Best Lap Time: 1min 21.608s
Total laps: 79
Total distance: 349.417km

Although Schumacher dealt with several mechanical failures during his test, he still managed to complete 27 laps. September 20 will be for Jarno Trulli as he continues to practice his skills and focus more on car specifications before they leave for Japan.

Ralf Schumacher was quoted by MotorSport.com saying, "We have tried a lot of things on the car today and by the end of the day we had made progress. We had a couple of small delays due to car issues but nothing major. The stability and balance was difficult early in the day but we made some changes to the mechanical set-up and achieved a more workable balance."

He also said, "I was then able to do some aerodynamic comparison work in the afternoon. Our test here has helped us prepare for the Japanese Grand Prix and now I am looking forward to racing at Fuji Speedway."

Gerd Pfeiffer, the Test Team Manager, also said on Toyota’s F1 official website, "Ralf's programme was basically a continuation of the work Franck started yesterday but we had a couple of small delays due to mechanical issues. In the morning we were working mainly on the mechanical set-up aimed at improving traction and in the afternoon we did some aerodynamic comparisons and gathered more data. Jarno will conclude the programme tomorrow and we will then make some decisions for the end of season races."

Another Disappointment For Toyota

2007-09-17T19:32:00.000-07:00

I was thinking that Panasonic Toyota Racing is going to get better after Ralf Schumacher's sixth place finish at the Hungarian Grand Prix. But the past three races including the recently concluded Belgian Grand Prix has been dismal for our Formula One team. At the said race, the fourteenth of the season, Ralf Schumacher finished tenth while Jarno Trulli finished eleventh.

At the said race, Schumacher was 88 seconds behind winner Kimi Raikkonen while Trulli is behind by 103 seconds. As can be expected, both drivers are disappointed but both did the best that they could.

After the race, Schumacher has this to say: "The race was okay. I did my best and I think we got the best out of the car, but unfortunately it was not quite enough for any points. Looking at it from that perspective, it is frustrating because we pushed the car to the limit and we hoped for more after our competitive pace in practice. On Friday it looked promising but we lost out compared to the other teams and now we need to look at the reasons for that."

The next race will be the Japanese Grand Prix. This will be Toyota's home race and the team is looking to perform well at the race with the help of high performance race parts engineered for better performance than Bilstein shocks. "The next race is at our home track, Fuji Speedway, so the whole team is looking forward to the Japanese Grand Prix," said Schumacher. "Clearly this is an important race. It is disappointing not to score points here but we will push hard to do that in Japan," he added further.

Jarno Trulli had this to say after the race: "That was a difficult afternoon for me. At the first corner I lost a few places because I had to brake and go on the outside after another car braked late. There was nothing I could do. I fell behind other cars who had more fuel on board and were much slower than me, but it was not possible to overtake because we didn’t have the straightline speed. I expected more from the race and if you look at the performance of the car when I was not in traffic, we were quite competitive and I was happy with the balance."

Just like Schumacher, the Italian Formula One driver is also looking forward to the Japanese Grand Prix. "Now we will focus on Fuji Speedway for the Japanese Grand Prix and I hope we can get a better result in our home race. We will be working hard in the test this week to improve and we will try our best as always," he mentioned.

F1 Championship Tainted Says Mosley

2007-09-17T00:24:00.000-07:00

After stripping McLaren of all its constructor points for this season and a record-breaking £50 million fine, FIA President Max Mosley says the championship is tainted. Additionally, only the immunity Mosley granted the McLaren drivers - Fernando Alonso, Lewis Hamilton and reserve Pedro de la Rosa - in return for information prevented them from being thrown out.

In a recent interview, the FIA President intimated he feels the whole affair has cast a stain over the sport, and that might not sit well with Hamilton should he go on to win the title in his rookie year.

"I think he will probably feel more comfortable if he wins a subsequent championship, which I am sure he will, without any of these question marks," said Mosley. "There was a big debate in the World Council about whether all the points should go - team and drivers. We discussed whether to take the drivers' points from McLaren, but allow the drivers to drive, don't interfere with their super license and so on.”

"They have effectively cheated. But the other side of it was, here is this brilliant world championship between Hamilton and Alonso. The sporting people were saying, 'If you interfere with that, you are spoiling a very good championship. It wasn't the drivers' fault.' But there again, it never is.”

Planet-F1 said that Mosley has revealed he personally would have stripped the drivers' points too, adding: "On the grounds there is a suspicion that they had an advantage that they should not have had." But due to the immunity clause in his letter to the three McLaren drivers, and with Alonso and de la Rosa both providing information in email exchanges between the two, no sanction was imposed.

Driver and constructor standings after the Belgian Grand Prix at Spa-Francorchamps:

Drivers
1. Lewis Hamilton (Britain) McLaren 97 points
2. Fernando Alonso (Spain) McLaren 95
3. Kimi Raikkonen (Finland) Ferrari 84
4. Felipe Massa (Brazil) Ferrari 77
5. Nick Heidfeld (Germany) BMW Sauber 56
6. Robert Kubica (Poland) BMW Sauber 33
7. Heikki Kovalainen (Finland) Renault 22
8. Giancarlo Fisichella (Italy) Renault 17
9. Nico Rosberg (Germany) Williams 15
10. Alexander Wurz (Austria) Williams 13
11. Mark Webber (Australia) Red Bull 10
12. David Coulthard (Britain) Red Bull 8
13. Jarno Trulli (Italy) Toyota 7
14. Ralf Schumacher (Germany) Toyota 5
15. Takuma Sato (Japan) Super Aguri 4
16. Jenson Button (Britain) Honda 2
17. Sebastian Vettel (Germany) Toro Rosso 1
18. Rubens Barrichello (Brazil) Honda 0
19. Scott Speed (U.S.) Toro Rosso 0
20. Anthony Davidson (Britain) Super Aguri 0
21. Vitantonio Liuzzi (Italy) Toro Rosso 0
22. Adrian Sutil (Germany) Spyker 0
23. Christijan Albers (Netherlands) 0
24. Sakon Yamamoto (Japan) Spyker 0

Constructors
1. Ferrari 161 points
2. BMW Sauber 90
3. Renault 39
4. Williams - Toyota 28
5. RedBull - Renault 18
6. Toyota 12
7. Super Aguri - Honda 4
8. Honda 2
9. Toro Rosso - Ferrari 0
10. Spyker - Ferrari 0

(Compiled by Infostrada Sports)

Is Press Really Gone?

2007-09-13T19:55:00.000-07:00

This has been the talk of industry for the past week or so. All talk about the upcoming Frankfurt Motor Show has been forgotten momentarily as the auto world talked about Jim Press. Press has been behind the rise of the Toyota brand in the United States. It was him who lobbied for the Prius to come to North American soil. He was also the first non-Japanese to be elected to the automaker's board. After almost four decades with Toyota and with the company about to be the king of the mountain, why would Press leave all of these?

The reason is challenge. Jim Press went for the job with the New Chrysler because he probably wants a challenge. If he had stayed with Toyota, his future would have been stable. The will move up in the ranks and just draw checks for the rest of his life. But with a mind a bright as Press, a challenging task will always have a certain kind of allure.

We know that Chrysler is in deep trouble. It has closed down plants, reduced the number of shifts on others resulting to workforce reduction. It still develops and manufactures large vehicles contrary to the demand of auto buyers. Will the presence of Press serve as something that will give life to the deflated American automaker? Will Press serve the company like how a Subaru starter serves a Legacy? Press is looking to answer all that with a yes.

Although he has been a part of a Japanese company for so long, Press is still an American. And we know that Chrysler is a huge part of the United States auto industry. Saving it will be Press' lasting legacy. Even if he has achieved much in his career, some may still think that that was not enough because he has been a part of a company that has floored American automakers.

The question now on everybody's mind is whether Press can do the same for Chrysler what he has done for Toyota. As a fan of the Japanese automaker, I greatly appreciate what Press has done in bringing quality Toyota vehicles to North American soil. And I think that Press, as brilliant as he is, will do just fine in any organization.

Panasonic Toyota Racing, Empty-Handed In Italy…

2007-09-11T00:30:00.000-07:00

Just when you thought you can have it, it all went so fast… and it’s gone for good! It’s like breaking your Audi ball joints in the middle of a drag race… A little effort is never enough to achieve what you want, that’s why Panasonic Toyota Racing has left Italy with nothing! The disappointing afternoon for Toyota in Monza placed Trulli and Schumacher in 9th and 18th places on the grid respectively.

Let’s try to hear their side as they share their insights about the recent Italian Grand Prix courtesy of http://www.newonf1.com/:

Jarno Trulli:

"It was a pity that we made such a poor getaway because our pace was good today and we could have made the points. Unfortunately once again we had problems at the start. I lost three positions and from then on it was a different race. The car was competitive and consistent but after the first few corners I was in traffic for the rest of the afternoon."

"I was quicker than the cars in front but it was impossible to overtake here. This shows that when the gaps in the midfield battle are so tight, one little detail can make all the difference and you need to get everything right. We still have a lot of work to do but first we must look for a better result in Spa."

Ralf Schumacher:

"That was a very disillusioning result for both of us. It didn't work very well and it was a struggle for us today. Jarno managed to handle it better than me this weekend but I could see that the race here in Monza would not be our strongest race. We still have some problems with kerbs and that makes a big difference at Monza."

"The first corner is always chaotic here but today it went relatively smoothly for me. Of course even if you're at the back you still push hard and I tried to drive as quickly as possible. We have much to analyse but now we must turn our attentions to next race. We had a good test at Spa so we can aim for a better result there."

Tadashi Yamashina - Team Principal:

"There were two key issues for us this weekend. First we had Ralf's result from qualifying. We didn't expect all the cars to be so close together. So we expected to get both cars into Q2 and I'm sure that could have happened but it was so tight that Ralf missed out."

"Second was the start on Jarno's car today. That cost him three positions and when everyone is on the same one-stop strategy that gives you no chance to get past. Jarno was faster than a couple of cars in front but he had no chance to catch up. So we must analyse what the cause was, find where the problem lies and take counter-measures for the next race. But we will never give up the fight."

Toyota To Remedy Start Problems

2007-09-10T05:37:00.000-07:00

Sunday’s Monza race wasn’t a good one for Toyota. After finishing a distant 11th at his home grand prix, Jarno Trulli complained about his car’s start systems.

In response to Jarno’s lament, the Japanese team vowed to analyze the car’s start systems to prevent another poor getaway in the future. Jarno has complained about this aspect of the TF107 after making a series of tardy starts this season.

At Sunday’s Italian Grand Prix, Jarno dived from 9th on the grid to 12th after the first corner. As a result, he was stuck behind slower cars for much of the Formula 1 event, ITV Sport reported.

“It was a pity that we made such a poor getaway because our pace was good today and we could have made the points,” he said. “Unfortunately once again we had problems at the start. I lost three positions and from then on it was a different race. The car was competitive and consistent but after the first few corners I was in traffic for the rest of the afternoon.”

“I was quicker than the cars in front but it was impossible to overtake here. This shows that when the gaps in the midfield battle are so tight, one little detail can make all the difference and you need to get everything right. We still have a lot of work to do but first we must look for a better result in Spa,” he continued.

Tadashi Yamashina, Toyota’s team principal, said that the team would have to get to the bottom of what caused Trulli’s poor start.

“That cost him three positions and when everyone is on the same one-stop strategy that gives you no chance to get past,” he said. “Jarno was faster than a couple of cars in front but he had no chance to catch up. So we must analyse what the cause was, find where the problem lies and take counter-measures for the next race. But we will never give up the fight.”

Ralf Schumacher, Schumi’s brother, finished a lapped 15th in the sister Toyota. Ralf said that the team simply hadn’t managed to get the TF107 to handle and ride the kerbs through Monza’s chicanes.

“That was a very disillusioning result for both of us,” Ralf said. “It didn’t work very well and it was a struggle for us today. Jarno managed to handle it better than me this weekend but I could see that the race here in Monza would not be our strongest race.”

He added, “We still have some problems with kerbs and that makes a big difference at Monza. The first corner is always chaotic here but today it went relatively smoothly for me. Of course even if you’re at the back you still push hard and I tried to drive as quickly as possible. We have much to analyze but now we must turn our attentions to next race. We had a good test at Spa so we can aim for a better result there.”

Better have it quick!

Toyota Pair Just Outside Of Top Ten In Practice

2007-09-08T01:25:00.000-07:00

While some may say that Toyota is going nowhere in Formula One, I'd say just wait until they have their cars suit the respective drivers. The Hungarian Grand Prix is only the tip of the iceberg for Toyota. Both Ralf Schumacher and Jarno Trulli are world-class drivers and I'm sure that when Toyota comes out with a superior car, the two will also be in the running for a championship.

During the preparation for the 2007 Italian Grand Prix, both Toyota drivers had a trouble-free practice last Friday. Although Trulli posted only the eleventh fastest lap time and Schumacher twelfth, they managed to get vital data which can be used in their qualifying runs and in the race itself.

Jarno Trulli will be going into the Italian Grand Prix filled with nationalistic pride as he will be coming home to his native Italy. It can be expected that the fans will be behind Jarno even if Ferrari, an Italian team will also be competing come Saturday and Sunday.

In the post-practice interview, Trulli expressed his thoughts on the forthcoming race saying: "Monza has always been a special venue for me both for the track and for the atmosphere, especially now it is the only Italian race on the calendar. The car always feels lighter here because you run with such low downforce for the long straights."

As far as tweaking his car for the all-important qualifying run, the Italian driver said: "My two days of testing last week went well and we improved our set-up and braking stability. Today everything went pretty smoothly and we carried out the usual work on set-up and tyres. But we have some work to do overnight to improve the handling so I can push hard for a strong race here in front of my home fans."

Meanwhile, Schumacher is not so happy about testing his car and running it during the free practice sessions at Monza. "Last week's test was a bit frustrating for me because both the days of running I did were heavily disrupted by rain and the track was very green," said the German Formula One driver. "That meant I still had plenty of work to do on the set-up of the car in the better weather we saw today. We’re reasonably happy with what we achieved and we didn’t have any technical problems. But it’s clear that we still have a lot to do on the car side."

Come raceday on Sunday, I know that these drivers will be ready and I'll be rooting for them from start to finish. Yeah! They will finish this time, I'm telling you.

Toyota Plant In Itawamba County, Mississippi!

2007-09-04T18:01:00.000-07:00

The Toyota Motor Company continues to get bigger and bigger - a great sign of unremitting success as one of the world’s famous auto manufacturers! Toyota’s ground-breaking achievements have extended to new heights as they proposed to build another plant in Itawamba County, Mississippi! Yes, you heard me! I found this great news online on theautochannel.com after working on some problems with my BMW radiator.

Toyota Boshoku America’s Chairman, Junichi Yoshikawa, and Kiyoshi “Nate” Furuta, the Chairman and CEO of Toyota Boshoku America, have gladly teamed up with Mississippi Governor Haley Barbour! They’ve already announced that Toyota Boshoku America will establish a new plant in Itawamba County, Mississippi. The plant is intended to provide seats, carpet and door panels to the Toyota Highlander SUV palnt located at Tupelo, Mississippi.

“We in Mississippi are excited to have been chosen by Toyota Boshoku as its partner. The company selected north Mississippi for its quality workforce and the leadership offered by the state, the county and the local communities. When we announced Toyota in February, I stated that we would be aggressive in recruiting all of the Toyota suppliers we can to Mississippi so that many towns and counties would benefit from the jobs created by those suppliers. With today’s announcement, Toyota Boshoku, the first supplier to choose its site, has already begun to make a difference in the state and in Itawamba county," says Governor Haley Barbour.

“We are very proud to join our fellow Toyota companies in Mississippi and locate our newest plant in the United States in Itawamba County, Miss., for many reasons, including the region’s talented and dedicated workforce and its proximity to the Toyota Highlander SUV plant. Toyota Boshoku America is a growing company and we plan to continue to meet customer demand by expanding our presence and sales in the U.S. We look forward to becoming an active member of the Itawamba County community,” says Kiyoshi "Nate" Furuta, Chairman and CEO, Toyota Boshoku America, Inc.

Toyota Boshoku will come up wiith a $20,000 donation to the Itawamba Community College workforce training and development programs via the College’s Foundation to express Toyota Boshoku’s dedication to the community of Itawamba County.

“I look forward to working with Toyota Boshoku on workforce preparation and training. This donation will allow Itawamba Community College to enhance our student employment opportunities within the county,” says Dr. David Cole, President, Itawamba Community College.

The Toyota Boshoku America Mississippi plant will hire around 500 workers and will be all set by 2010. The plant will produce seats, door panels and carpet for the Toyota Highlander vehicle. The plant will consist of different areas such as material handling to production workers, engineers and plant administration personnel. That is why a large variety of employees will be needed for the plant.

Toyota Targets 10.4M Sales In 2009

2007-09-02T23:29:00.000-07:00

The silent auto giant is gaining more and more clout each day. Steadily, inexorably, the Toyota Motor Corp., which is known for the manufacture of quality and reliable cars, is gaining traction to become the biggest automaker around the globe. The standard used by the automaker is different from that of the Mercedes Benz thermostat and other trusted auto parts.

In 2009, the Japanese automaker targets to accomplish 10.4 million sales.

Toyota, which set the 2009 sales goal on Friday, intends to topple General Motors Corp.’s record of 9.55 million sales in 1978 - so far the biggest annual sales ever achieved. Additionally, it is also a way for the Japanese automaker to snatch the industry’s ‘biggest automaker’ crown, which was worn by GM for 76 years.

A Japanese company snatching an American reign which was enjoyed for more than 7 decades is something to be jubilant about. That alone calls for a big celebration! But at the automaker’s headquarters no sign of feisty merry-making is apparent. No caviar and champagne. No murmur in the air. Just the usual hassle and bustle of manufacturing.

For the first half of this year, the Japanese automaker has already surpassed the global vehicle sales of the Detroit-based automaker by selling 4.72 million vehicles compared to GM's 4.67.

Despite the overwhelming fact, Toyota execs aren’t gloating. They steadfastly say it's not necessarily good to be No. 1. Arrogance may seep in, they added, and quality could slip, management could grow less vigilant, technological innovations could stall - all possible pitfalls for a manufacturer that has painstakingly built its reputation since it was founded in 1937.

"You're not going to see it: Congratulations! You're No. 1. That's not what we're about," said Michael Rouse, the philanthropy manager at Toyota Motor Sales U.S.A., who was in Toyota to escort American schoolteachers on a tour. "Consumers decide who's No. 1. If we're No. 1, it's great.”

Toyota President Katsuaki Watanabe denied the company was going after numbers, or "quantity," and was instead focusing on "quality," building on each and every car. "All I can say is that I am truly grateful for every customer who bought our cars," he said, brushing off a reporter's question about beating GM.

Toyota's 2009 sales forecast is an 11.3% raise from the 9.34 million vehicles the automaker intends to sell this year. A significant part of the success was contributed by the gas electric Prius as well as Camry sedans.

From its inception, Toyota stressed the dignity of craftsmanship and worker empowerment. One renowned remark from Kiichiro Toyoda was that engineers would never amount to anything unless they had to wash their hands at least three times a day - evidence they were getting their hands dirty from real work, International Herald Tribune noted. The execs of the Japanese automaker work hard at keeping such trademark views alive.

The big danger, said the execs, is that the "Toyota Way," could unravel as the company keeps growing, opening plants in emerging markets and the United States.

The Aura of Toyota Auris

2007-08-24T21:24:00.000-07:00

I love both Yaris and RunX. To have the aura of both, Toyota Auris came along. It is much of the combination of looks of the two models.

However, more than its exterior elegance, the Auris have been more pleasant from the inside, providing roomier space. The driver’s seat is found to provide comfort. Both seats and steering wheel have a wide range of adjustment. In addition, the gear lever is positioned high up on the ‘bridge console’. Everything seems to be well organized. That is even with the dashboard that is a bit close to VW Golf’s, for we know interior VW Golf Parts were very much pleasing. That is though plastics were nowhere close to the perceptive quality level found in VW cars. They all suit in place.

Toyota Auris has the generosity to provide sufficient space for head and leg, which I find great just as I want a vehicle to be stuffed with comfort.

Behind the concept of making the Auris much wider is their purpose of reducing the center of gravity. Toyota has decided to keep the more basic torsion beam rear suspension and leave away the fancy new multi-link design. Nevertheless, this vehicle provides a great ride and wonderful handling balance.

Turning into the engine issue, this Toyota vehicle comes with Toyota’s VVT-I petrol engine. Compared to the 2.0 L common rail diesel engine capable of producing 93 kW at 3600 rpm with a maximum torque of 300 Nm between 2000 and 2800 rpm, the latest generation petrol engine is observed to be more powerful.

Getting to know more about the VVT-I petrol engine capacity, the 1.6 L has the ability to produce 91 kW at 6000 rpm and 157 Nm at 5200 rpm, up from 81 kW and 146 Nm. It has a torque of 140 Nm from the 2000 rpm mark. While, the 1.8 L produces 100 kW output at 6000 mark. However, the torque of the 1.8 L is up from 171 Nm to 175 Nm at 4400 rpm.

Learn more of this amazing vehicle from motoring.iafrica.com. They have provided more information and details to give you a better idea of the Toyota Auris’ performance.

Toyota Announces Pricing For 2008 Highlander Hybrid

2007-08-22T21:22:00.000-07:00

Highlander buffs out there: if you want to be among the first ones to purchase the newest hybrid version of the vehicle, know how much you will be paying.

The Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc., recently announced the MSRP for the all-new 2008 Highlander Hybrid, which was unveiled at the 2004 North American International Auto Show and was offered in July 2005 as a 2006 model.

The 2006 Highlander Hybrid is priced starting at US $33,030, or US$6,590 more than the price of a similarly-equipped non-hybrid Highlander. The 2008 Highlander Hybrid, meanwhile, will be up for sale next month. It features the second generation Hybrid Synergy Drive, and will allow an electric only mode for short distances. Weight, cost, and fuel economy have been improved. The hybrid uses the automaker's Hybrid Synergy Drive technology combined with the company's 3MZ-FE 3.3 liter V6 engine.

A best-in-class fuel economy and emissions leader, Highlander Hybrid with Hybrid Synergy Drive(TM) has been enhanced for power, roominess and economy in 2008. It is noticeably quieter, larger and smarter, with significantly improved versatility and ride comfort. The 2008 Highlander Hybrid will have one of the most comprehensive lists of standard safety features in the mid-size SUV class where safety is at the top of purchase considerations, reported the Auto Channel.

The Web site also provided vital specs of the hybrid:

The new hybrid will be offered in Base and Limited grades, powered by a 3.3-liter V6 with four-wheel drive with intelligence (4WD-i) that delivers an impressive 270 horsepower. Newly-added, technological innovation features such as an EV Mode, ECON Mode and Hybrid System Indicator assist the driver to enhance fuel economy and driving experience.

Highlander Hybrid has an impressive list of standard safety features. It features seven airbags, including a driver's knee airbag and roll-sensing side curtain airbags for all three rows in addition to active headrests for the driver and front passenger and Direct Tire Pressure Monitor System.

As with the Japanese automaker’s sport utility lineup for the past three years, Highlander Hybrid will provide Toyota's STAR(TM) Safety system with Vehicle Dynamic Integrated Management, Vehicle Stability Control, traction control, electronic brake-force distribution, and brake assist as standard equipment.

Key standard equipment on the Limited model includes: three rows of leather-trimmed seats, multi-stage heated front seats, rear glass hatch, power rear door, AM/FM/six-disc in-dash CD changer, nineteen-inch alloy wheels, puddle lamps on outside mirrors, fog lamps and a third-row bench seat with foldable headrests for a flat rear cargo area.

With new standard equipment and convenience features, the 2008 Highlander Hybrid base grade 4WD-i model will carry an MSRP of $33,700, a decrease of $190, or 0.6 percent over the previous generation comparably-equipped Highlander Hybrid. On the other hand, the well-equipped Limited grade 4WD i-model will carry a base MSRP of $39,950, an increase of $3,400 or 9.3 percent. The Highlander Hybrid will arrive in dealerships in early October.

Meyer: Goodbye Toyota and Hello Chrysler

2007-08-16T21:42:00.000-07:00

I was searching for a Saturn ECM recalibration kit through the web when I saw this interesting piece of news.

Deborah Wahl Meyer, Toyota’s former Vice President of marketing for the Lexus division, will be working at Chrysler effective August 28. After working with Toyota for 6 years since 2001, she will now be serving a new company. She has been appointed as Chrysler’s new Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer (CMO). She will be replacing George Murphy who retired last May. They say she will be responsible for the marketing and advertising initiatives for the Chrysler, Dodge and Jeep brands. She will also be assigned to oversee all sales promotions and brand events. And, these will all be reported directly to Steven Landry, Executive Vice President of North American sales, global marketing, service and parts.

Based from sev.prnewswire.com, Landry said, “Deborah Wahl Meyer has a proven track record in the automotive industry, both in North America and globally.”

“She also clearly understands the dealer network and values partnering to create positive results,” he added, knowing that Meyer has excellent experiences prior to Toyota. Here are some of what's up Meyer's list:

Held various positions with the Ford motor Company, which includes marketing communications Manager for the Lincoln and Mercury brands
Have been the Group Manager for brand strategy and communications at Mazda North American Operations
Worked as Brand Manager at Ford do Brasil
Appointed as Product Manager at W.L. Gore and Associates in Paris, France, for three years
Served at The Chase Manhattan Bank in New York

I am fascinated with Meyer’s background in education. She was able to attain the following:

Bachelor’s Degree in Economics from Wellesley College (Wellesley, Mass.)
Master’s Degree in Business Administration from the Wharton School
Master’s Degree in Science in International Studies from the Wharton School

Both her Master’s Degree are from the Wharton School’s The Joseph H. Lauder institute of Management International Studies at the University of Pennsylvania. In addition, last 2005, she was recognized by Automotive News as one of the “100 Leading Women in the North American Automotive Industry”.

Robert “Bob” Nardelli, the Chairman and CEO of The New Chrysler, was impressed by Meyer’s record. He said, “Deborah is a great addition to the leadership team. She brings a proven track record of success to support our brands both in North America and internationally.”

Jim Lentz, Toyota’s Executive Vice President, said, “During her six years at Toyota, she did an excellent job and helped elevate marketing for both the Toyota and Lexus brands. One of Deborah's greatest strengths is her love for new challenges, and we understand the strong appeal of a top position at the new Chrysler.” He couldn’t deny that he would be missing a good employee who has been outstanding in her job.

She seemed valuable for both companies and they know she had and would be contributing much in the car brands’ performance.

Vision: Toyota’s Gradual Growth in U.S.

2007-08-09T20:19:00.000-07:00

Toyota has been a well-known carmaker in the U.S. We have observed how they created premium vehicles equipped with high-tech gadgets, one-of-a-kind accessory parts and excellent features - just like other competitors like GM, their closest rival, who has been aggressive in improving their vehicles through featuring superior Saturn cabin filter and some of the best safety features.

The active participation of this company in the U.S. automotive industry in the past times brought about the obvious slowing down of their activity in the market. This was to focus on providing the demands of young enthusiasts for smaller vehicles. But this does not preclude their interest to continue the quest and give way for the fame of General Motors Corp., which is aiming to be this year’s largest automaker in the world.

They even assured their growth by next year, based from washingtonpost.com. Jim Lentz said, “For next year, we will definitely grow, but we have to reevaluate the market in the fourth quarter to see how much we could grow,” since they had 2.5 million total number of vehicles sold in the U.S. market in 2006.

Toyota is committed in engineering small cars for the “urbanization” process, where they see large number of people moving to cities, as Lentz said “These people have money and they need cars. They don't have long commutes, and they don't have too much space to park. That's where we see the need for a premium small car.”

They are sure that this vision would make them attain success in marketing small cars, just as BMW who famed in small luxury cars in the U.S. market.

Well, these carmakers are swerving into smaller versions of their current top models which can be considered to be somewhat of a trend. They could see the future of small vehicles to provide their consumers fuel economy, which is now one of the top consumers’ demands.

Ten Million For Toyota

2007-08-07T18:39:00.000-07:00

Toyota is surely on track to become the largest carmaker in the world. Although it was reported earlier this year that they have eclipsed General Motors’ sales output last year, that was not enough to make Toyota the largest automaker in the world. The reason is that the title is given to the automaker with the most number of vehicles manufactured, not sold, in a year. But with the plans of Toyota to produce more than ten million vehicles all over the world is surely one thing that would give them the title.

Toyota, as usual kept mum about the subject. Of course, these are things that Toyota will not comment on no matter how much the press, well, press them. But is it true? Well, I for one think that Toyota has the resources to pull this off. With numerous assembly facilities in different countries all over the world churning out Toyota vehicles, I am sure that the ten million production goal can be attained by the carmaker.

Add to that the demand for Toyota vehicles and you’ll have the motivation that Toyota needs to manufacture that huge number of vehicles. The problem of producing large number of vehicles is the reaction of the market. Take for example the Big Three - they have produced a lot of large vehicles but consumers are now looking for smaller vehicles. The result is that they are caught with a lot of light trucks sitting in their lots. In order to get rid of these, they have to offer discounts and other incentives. This in turn would mean that they would be getting less profit.

But in the case of Toyota, this is not a problem. With the company focusing on small vehicles, they are in a position to give consumers what they want. The result of course is more profit for the company. And with the Tundra sales on track to reach the company’s sales goal, I’d say that Toyota looks good.

The increase in the number of vehicles that Toyota aims to produce is also the result of minor carmakers buying Toyota vehicles and rebadging them. This practice is common to small carmakers who are looking to make a big impact in the auto industry but is still lacking the assembly facilities needed to produce many vehicles.

According to the report, Toyota will increase production of the compact SUV RAV4 in their Canadian assembly facility. The bestselling Camry will also be produced at a higher volume according to reports. More Camry units will be manufactured at Toyota’s Indiana Subaru plant.

Toyota Defeated Ford in July Sales

2007-08-02T00:50:00.000-07:00

According to records, Toyota, the Japanese auto maker, sold 224,058 vehicles in July from the 241,826 that it was able to sell last year. Ford was capable of making sales from their new products, the Ford Edge and the Lincoln MKX, and other models totaling to 195,245 vehicles sold on the same month. Comparing the two, Toyota was able to slip by Ford behind their sales, though both company’s sales swooped in July.

It was in July 2006 that Toyota was able to surpass the record of Ford in sales. Does this say that Ford is starting to get decayed? Aren’t they doing well enough? Or it is just that Toyota made so much this past year? Well, either ways, I’m sure they’d be continuing their quest to survive the competition. They already made wonderful records in the industry and it is not worth to be thrown away in just a glimpse.

According to marketwatch.com, Jim Lentz, the Toyota Motor Sales USA Inc. Executive Vice President, stated, “The industry stumbled this month, on continued housing weakness. Though Toyota didn't match last July's record-setting sales, heightened demand for hybrids and crossovers is reassuring.” Knowing that most companies experienced the downfall for July sales because of gas price hikes, this statement merely implicates that the company is sure hoping andis eager to enhance their hybrids and crossovers to further improve their sales for the following month and the other months to come.

Meanwhile, some other companies’ sales have been emphasized: Ford’s dropped to 19% in U.S. sales of cars and light trucks. The Chrysler Group’s fell to 8.4% (137,728). And, Mercedes Benz USA surprisingly had 14% dropped from July sales (18,586 units) even though they run through upgrades of parts (including small parts like the Mercedes Benz distributor rotor) this year.

Looking forward on the good side, BMW has been remarkable for topping the list of those who were able to improve their sales from last year’s. Well done. I’m expecting that they would serve as inspiration to the rest.

Prius Made Cheaper than Ever

2007-08-01T00:59:00.001-07:00

The Toyota Motor Corporation has finally released its latest price list of the cars included in their 2008 line up. And among the new models, the Prius got the lowest price this year. You heard me right guys, despite its popularity, Toyota made it even cheaper. Okay, the fact that customers now are looking for more hybrid cars in the market still remains but we never actually expect that this super famous hybrid car will have its price reduced, perhaps because they are targeting a huge amount of sales this year.

Toyota promises to add lithium-ion batteries on the latest Prius but because of some security reasons, Toyota didn’t include the battery packs on the new car. The Japanese car maker also introduced the hybrid car as a new standard model which contains slightly less content as compared to its previous models which is also the very reason why they offered the new model with a lower price. The MSRP for the new Toyota Prius lands on $20,950 while the limited costs only $150 to $23,220.

Since the market is also into diesel propelled engines, Toyota said that they will also be trimming the price down of the Camry Hybrid. The 2008 Camry Hybrid will be wearing the price tag of about $1,000 according to the Japanese car maker. J.D. Powers released the fact about people that find diesel powertrains to be more appealing than hybrid cars.

The Camry was not included in the list of newly released models. All the Prius 2008 models will be out of the box this coming August and you will see their new design and get hold of their new installations in dealership showrooms this coming month. Other Toyota models that will go along with the announcement of the Prius had surprisingly increased. But only for a little amount. Autoblog.com has a clearer statement of this news. If you wish to know more about it, visit their official website.

Toyota Plug-in Hybrid Certified In Public-Road Tests In Japan

2007-07-27T01:01:00.000-07:00

It’s all happening! Toyota has once again marked an industry-first by providing the first ever developed plug-in hybrid vehicle! The Toyota Motor Corp. is the first to break new ground in the field of plug-in hybrids! Hooray! And there’s more! The plug-in hybrid from Toyota was certified for tests on public roads in the Land of the Rising Sun! Well, well, well… great news, isn’t it? I’m glad I’ve read this update yesterday at autochannel.com. Even though I had problems regarding my Toyota Celica radiator, I was overwhelmed upon hearing the information!

Japan’s Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport certifies the Toyota Plug-in HV for public road-use. The Toyota Plug-in HV uses both a gasoline-powered internal combustion engine and an electric motor which is like what’s being used by Toyota during its earlier years of developing hybrid vehicles. But then they came up with a battery that has an increased capacity that provides a long-lasting electric-motor traveling range. And with a battery-charging piece of equipment, it allows owners to reenergize the batteries by just using an average household outlet! With this kind of technology, owners can run on short trips most of the time with all-electric gasoline-free power alone. It’s absolutely an improved fuel-efficient vehicle that releases just a little amount of CO2 emissions. Plus, charging the battery with less costly for nighttime electricity reduces the total running charge wherein owners are granted with economic benefits.

Even though there are great tests that are still present in the improvement for pure electric vehicles, the Toyota Motor Company will continue to envision plug-in hybrid vehicles as a possible ground-breaking technology allowing electricity to provide practical power source for automobiles. And also, the Toyota Motor Corp. is dedicated to carry on in breaking boundaries to assist in searching for new keys to environmental technology.

Main Specifications of the Toyota Plug-in HV

Vehicle Name: TOYOTA Plug-in HV
Length/Width/Height: 4,445/1,725/ 1,490mm
Weight: 1,360kg
Seating capacity: 5 persons

Performance in electric vehicle mode

Cruising range: 13km in the 10-15 Japanese test cycle
Maximum vehicle speed: 100km/h
Engine Displacement: 1,496cc
Maximum output: 56kW(76PS)/5,000rpm
Maximum torque: 110N-m (11.2kg-m) / 4,000rpm
Motor Type: AC synchronous motor
Maximum output: 50kW(68PS) / 1,200 — 1,540rpm
Maximum torque: 400N-m(40.8kg-m) / 0 — 1,200rpm

Secondary battery Type: Nickel-metal hydride

Capacity: 13Ah (6.5Ah x 2)
Rated voltage: 202V

Overall system

Maximum output: 100kW (136PS)
Voltage: 202—500V
Battery charging Power source Household electrical power
Charging time: 1—1.5hrs (200V), 3—4hrs (100V)

Public road tests will be conducted by the Toyota Motor Corp. along with eight Toyota Plug-in HV vehicles to further evaluate the cruising ranges of the electric-motor-only and the optimal battery capacity.

Toyota plans to conduct public road tests in Japan with eight units of the vehicle to verify electric-motor-only cruising ranges and optimal battery capacity.

Toyota Reigned In Vincentric’s Best Value In America™ Awards

2007-07-25T01:10:00.000-07:00

It’s been said and confirmed a lot of times - Toyota vehicles rule the industry today. The achievements earned by the company recently have been solid evidence that certifies that Toyota is one of the leading auto manufacturers around the world.

In the latest announcement of Vincentric’s Best Value in America™ Awards which was published on autochannel.com, Toyota has dominated its competition! Eleven of Toyota’s first class vehicles were included on the list of awardees and they are:

Vincentric Best Value in America- Passenger Cars and Crossovers

Convertible under $39,000: Toyota Camry Solara
Large: Toyota Avalon
Mid-Size under $23,000: Toyota Prius
Wagon under $24,500: Toyota Matrix

Vincentric’s Best Value in America™ Sports Utility Vehicle

Large SUV under $40,500: Toyota Sequoia SR5
Mid-Size SUV over $30,000: Toyota Highlander Hybrid
Mid-Size SUV under $30,000: Toyota Highlander

Vincentric’s Best Value in America™ Pick-Ups

Compact Pickup, 2WD: Toyota Tacoma
Compact Pickup, 4WD: Toyota Tacoma
Full Size Pickup, 2WD: Toyota Tundra
Full Size Pickup, 4WD: Toyota Tundra

"Hybrids benefited from three main factors," stated David Wurster, the President of Vincentric. "First was their strong fuel economy rating, resulting in lower fuel costs for these vehicles; second was their strong residual value due to high demand, resulting in lower depreciation costs. And third was the federal tax credit that went into effect this year. This combination of factors creates extremely strong value for consumers."

Here are the rest of the winners from the latest results of Vincentric’s Best Value in America™ Awards:

Compact, over $17,000: Honda Civic Hybrid
Compact, under $17,000: Honda Civic(non-hybrid)
Convertible, over $39,000: Chevrolet Corvette
Large: Toyota Avalon
Luxury: Lexus LS-430
Mid-Size, over $23,000: Honda Accord
Near Luxury: Acura TL
Crossover, over $28,000: Nissan Murano
Crossover, under $28,000: Nissan Murano
Sports Car, over $37,500: Chevrolet Corvette
Sports Car, under $37,500: Acura RSX
Subcompact: Scion xB
Wagon, over $24,500: Volvo V70
Compact SUV, over $22,500: Ford Escape Hybrid
Compact SUV, under $22,500: Honda CR-V
Large SUV, over $40,500: Lexus GX-470
Heavy Duty ¾ Ton Pickup, 2WD: Dodge Ram 2500
Heavy Duty ¾ Ton Pickup, 4WD: Dodge Ram 2500
Heavy Duty 1 Ton Pickup, 2WD: Ford F-350
Heavy Duty 1 Ton Pickup, 4WD: Ford F-350
Full Size Passenger Van: Dodge Sprinter Wagon
Minivan, over $27,000: Honda Odyssey
Minivan, under $27,000: Honda Odyssey

Hybrid Car Grabs A Victory For Toyota

2007-07-20T00:10:00.000-07:00

I know, you still got the hangover from the news two weeks ago about the Prius going 105 miles per hour! That’s amazing but we have a different story right here. It’s not about the usual Subaru brake calipers or any car parts. This is something special… and I think it’s a hybrid too! Okay, let’s dig into the story now and know what on earth I am talking about!

The Supra HV-R is said to be the first hybrid car in history to finish a race with the big W! Oh yeah, this hybrid car from Toyota earned the Tokashi 24-Hour Race in Japan last weekend. Toyota entered a Lexus GS 450h to compete in the Tokashi endurance race last year but unfortunately, it came short of winning and finished 17th at the end of the race.

Toyota’s reason for letting hybrid cars join racing competition is to find out new methods to make lighter and more competent production hybrid vehicles. The Supra HV-R is based on the Supra GT that Toyota has entered in the Super GT races in Japan. The HV-R makes use of three electric motors which includes in-wheel motors in front as well as a rear-axle-mounted motor. Four-wheel drive and energy regeneration during braking are one of the features of this system. A quick-charging capacitor system is also used as a substitute for the regular rechargeable batteries.

Are you getting the point here? Aside from the fact that Toyota provides the best hybrid vehicles today, this is a sign that someday, the industry, the street, race tracks etc. will be dominated under the power of hybrids! But it’s cool! At least when that day comes, Mother Earth will still be there to watch over us as we all drive hybrid cars in the near future!

Toyota Might Hold On Production

2007-07-19T19:42:00.000-07:00

The Toyota Motor Corporation is only one among the several Japanese car makers to hold back on its production. The halt was caused by the closure of their major car parts suppliers due to the quake that attacked the facility that manufactures some of the most vital car components - the Riken Corporation's plants. The Nissan Motor Corporation, Fuji Heavy Industries as well as the Mitsubishi Motor Corporation are just three among the several car makers who were affected by the closure of this car parts manufacturer.

The news did not mention if the plant makes wiper blades, wiper switches and radiators but one thing is for sure - this facility has been affected by the quake.

The Riken Corporation plant closed their facility after it was affected by the quake in Kashiwazaki City. Toyota Spokesman Pual Nolasco said that they still have to decide whether they are halting its production because of the delay of supply from the Riken Corporation of their transmission parts and engine parts. The most famous Japanese car maker is still thinking about continuing their production.

Tom Libby said, “I don't think their inventory is that tight. I think they'll be able to adjust and probably make up for it afterwards." Libby is the senior director of industry analysis of J.D. Power and Associates. He was pointing out the customers may not notice the halt from Toyota because the company still has enough resources to push through their operations.

The Nissan Motor Corporation was one among the several Japanese car makers to close two of its production plants. The possible delay of supply from Riken was also the reason why they had to announce a halt on its production. Two of its facilities' production in Honshu will be placed on hold. However, Yuichi Nakagawa said that the Japanese car company may quickly get out of the delay.

Fuji Heavy Industries also experiences the same thing. The company will not pursue the production of its five mini car models also because Riken will delay its production supplies. Mitsubishi will also experience the same thing and is scheduled to close their plant later this week .

Toyota Prius Hybrid Going 105 Miles Per Hour Is Possible!

2007-07-16T21:24:00.000-07:00

Wow! Can you believe this? A Toyota Prius running 105 miles per hour… unbelievable, but believe it! Too bad the demonstration turned out to be a hot pursuit between the police and Al Gore III, the son of former Vice-President Al Gore. Al Gore III was arrested due to over speeding and possession of marijuana and prescription drugs. But this news is not the biggest shocker at all, and what is it? Al Gore was told to pull over because he was driving as fast as 105 miles per hour in a Toyota Prius! How about that for a real shocker?

Yeah, we know that hybrid cars can only go for about 70 mph but this time, Al Gore III demonstrated the real capacity of the Prius Hybrid. Somehow the controversial arrest of the former Vice-President’s son proved that we should never underestimate the power of a hybrid car especially the Prius. It’s definitely fast and furious!

Let’s check out some of the media’s reaction about this surprising demonstration of speed done by the Prius. And oh, forget about the arrest of Al Gore III for that illegal drugs and crap! The Prius is the headline!

Los Angeles Times
“Gore's cruel caning of Toyota's greener-than-thou hybrid - powered by a small four-cylinder engine and electric motor that together produce about 110 horsepower - rippled through talk radio and the blogosphere Thursday. Many were simply amazed. "How in the world do you get a Toyota Prius to go 100 mph without a cliff to go over?" asked Rush Limbaugh.

“A check of statistics compiled by Car and Driver magazine suggests that the slowest car on the road is not the Prius but the hairy-chested AM General Hummer H1, with a top speed of only 88 mph.

"But for Prius advocates, the Gore affair underscores a point they've tried to make all along: Efficiency is just another way to spell performance.”

Slate
“Making this week easier for late-night talk show hosts everywhere, Al Gore III, the son of former Vice President Al Gore, was arrested on Wednesday after police discovered marijuana and prescription drugs in his car. Gore III had been pulled over on the San Diego Freeway for speeding at about 100 mph in his Toyota Prius. Wait a second - can a Prius really go 100 miles per hour?"

“Yes, but just. Speed tests have confirmed that a new Prius can top out between 100 mph and 105 mph. That's not too speedy when compared with Toyota's conventional sedans - some Corollas can get up to 124 mph, and Camrys can reach 130 mph. But if you buy your car in the United States, you're unlikely to see much of a difference."

Toyota Announces Its Joint Venture With National FFA Foundation

2007-07-11T23:54:00.000-07:00

Imagine this: two of the largest groups teaming up! There’s no doubt that this kind of combination will create a big impact in the society! It’s like matching the perfect Subaru catalytic converter to splendid Subaru performance parts.

What two big companies am I talking about? I think you have the same question as well so here it is… A two year agreement between the Toyota Motor Sales, USA, Inc. and the National FFA Foundation has been announced yesterday. This partnership marks a remarkable development to the oldest partnership there is in over 30 long years. The joint venture of the two largest groups in the world will allow Toyota to provide a much needed participation in FFA activities and will permit Toyota dealers to further bond with FFA’s top quality events nationwide. Furthermore, the launching of the all-new Toyota Tundra will be supported by this partnership and to increase efforts for community relations by conducting charitable works in places where they reside as well.

The National FFA student leadership development, local community service projects, alumni programs, special events, collegiate scholarships and improvised diversity in agricultural education will be assisted in raising their funds. And also, the partnership between Toyota and the National FFA Foundation will extend their efforts and participate in programs such as the Can Hunger Food drives for the benefit of the less fortunate people.

"The National FFA Foundation has a longstanding partnership with Toyota; and with these additional funds, we can recommit resources across all avenues of the agricultural education spectrum," said Dennis Sargent, the executive director of the National FFA Foundation. "Students, teachers, alumni and volunteers will all feel the impact of this expanded Toyota initiative."

"We are excited about this significant increase in our support of the FFA," said Brian Smith, the Corporate Manager of Trucks and SUVs for Toyota. "We're looking forward to expanding our base of educational support to the future agricultural leaders of this country. Additionally, we can now increase recognition of the top teachers leading this effort and better connect our dealers to the admirable work of the FFA."

Toyota Jordan Teams Up with Amman Filmmakers to Reveal their Yaris-AFC Mobile Movie Competition

2007-07-09T22:06:00.000-07:00

This coming August 24-30, 2007, Toyota Jordan and Amman Filmmakers Cooperative (AFC) will join together to launch the first ever Yaris-AFC Mobile Movie Competition in connection with the Jordan ShortFilm Festival (JSFF '07).

The winning movies will be receiving a total of 3000 Euros. The said euro competition is set to capitalize the fastest growing numbers of ultra-portable as well as mobile phone video cameras and also the interest in compact mobile movies. "We see mobile movies as a potential bridge technology that will entice more people into the world of filmmaking," the founder and director of the Jordan Short Film Festival as well as the Amman Filmmakers Cooperative (AFC), Hazim Bitar, said. He added, "This is an opportunity to encourage budding talents from the early stages."

"We are excited by the launch of this competition which underscores our company's commitment to our youth. We have chosen to associate this competition with our Toyota Yaris model because of the youthful energy this competition will generate," the head of Toyota Jordan, Nadeem Haddad, said.

On the Best Mobile Movie director’s category, who ever wins shall be receiving a price of 1000 euros. 500 euros will be given to the second winner and the third prize winner will be receiving 300 euros as well. The filmmakers that are residing in Jordan for many years will be receiving the award called financial awards. And another 6 movies will be selected to win 200 euros each.

There are three young jurors who will be judging the submitted films and they will be selecting the winners of the particular categories which will all be announced on the awarding ceremonies that will be held in the on Jordan Short Film Festival 2007 dated this coming August 30, 2007. All interested film makers must submit their mobile movie this coming August 15th, 2007.

The Toyota Motor Corporation is not only focus on selling quality cars for the different markets all over the world. It only means that Toyota is not only focusing on the car interest of their followers but they are also focusing on other matters that caught the interest on them car buyers. It was an impressive move, right? Now, don’t ask why they sell well than any car maker on the market.

Trucks Help Toyota Boost Its Sales in June 2007

2007-07-05T00:45:00.001-07:00

US car makers General Motors Corporation, Ford Motor Company and the Chrysler Group were noted to be experiencing a continuous decline on its car sales for the recent June 2007 tally. While the US car makers were decreasing on sales, the Toyota Motor Corporation is gaining continuously. The increase in the Japanese car manufacturers sales were brought up by the huge sales last year plus the big incentives offered on Toyota trucks.

On the recently released June 2007 car sales, General Motors declined by 24% with 326,300 sold last month. Last year, GM was noted with 413,473 units of car sales which declined by 87,173 cars. The Ford Motor Company also gave up the 11% to a total of 247,599 units sold over last year’s 269,404. The lightest decrease on sales is from the Chrysler Group which got only 183,347 units sold and about 5% decrease from is 185,946 units sold last June 2006.

Among the Japanese car makers, Nissan has had a huge increase. It was really impressive that Nissan Motor of America was able to hitch a 22.7% increase more than Toyota with only 10.2% gained compared to last year’s June. The Honda Motor Corporation has increased by 11.5% as well. Looks like these Japanese auto makers are doing well on the US car market, huh?

Although Ford is noted because of the quality car parts they make like Ford Explorer parts, Ford fenders and Ford Focus parts and as the number two car maker of the Big Three, Toyota remained to be on the third spot. However, ever since Toyota entered the Big Three, they managed to bridge the narrowed distance from its 319,208 units sold on the third quarter last year to 39,558 units sold on the first quarter this year. Meaning, Toyota is the next to surpass Ford according to Autodata Corp.

The reductions of sales on fleet sales as well as the tough comparison of the sales last year when GM offered the huge 72-hour sale were the reasons why GM declined on sales this year. This is according to the executive director of global market and industry analysis of general Motors Paul Ballew. He added, "If we have to make some changes in our incentive play, we will, because we are not going to cede ground in a category that we feel we're best in class in.”

The Toyota Tundra had a huge jump of up to 146.3% increase while GM’s GMC Sierra and Chevrolet Silverado declined by more than 20%.

"Tundra really hit its stride this month, posting a record sales pace. In a short five months, the new trucks earned its stripes with both loyal Toyota owners and those new to the brand," said Jim Lentz, the executive vice president of Toyota's U.S. division.

Redesigned Voxy & Noah Launched by Toyota

2007-07-03T00:56:00.000-07:00

The nationwide launch of the redesigned Voxy and Noah has been announced and Toyota fans can catch these returning rides through “Toyota Corolla” dealers and “Netz” dealers. They were first launched last November 2001 as the first-generation Voxy and Noah which featured an advanced styling and comfort to all passengers and drivers. It was a successful launching with the full support of customers and that made the company earn cumulative sales of more or less 800,000 vehicles. It was the leader in the market and it came as a premium minivan.

The launching of the redesigned second-generation Voxy and Noah are packed with awesome features with highly functional standards that is very convenient to all passengers. It is equipped with the first “one touch folding” third row seats and the "long-slide multi-use rotating" seats with a child seat mode on the second row. They have applied sophisticated state-of-the-art technology such as the improvised 2.0-liter engine outfitted with a "Valvematic" continuously variable valve lift mechanism for a greater driving and environmental performance. An Intelligent Parking Assist system is also added so as to satisfy the diverse needs of customers for a comfortable driving experience. A display of strong individuality in minivans of just the right size has been added to these vehicles too!

Characteristics of the redesigned Voxy and Noah:

Voxy

The front end creates a sharp surface that creates the look of a condensed form packed with power. The stepped headlights, one of the distinctive design features of the Voxy, express stylishness and individuality.
The side emphasizes the Voxy's simple yet active feel through the door profile with full, curved surfaces, the flush fender lines and the sharp character lines that extend from the front to the rear.
The trapezoidal silhouette of the rear evokes a sense of stability while the clear and advanced design of the combination taillights gives a cool and stylish impression.

Noah

The front end makes a recognizable and remarkable impression with a round three-dimensional body and deeply sculpted form extending from the grille to the hood.
The side emphasizes the simple yet active feel and modern look of the Noah through the door profile with numerous curved surfaces and the J-shaped character lines of the front fenders.
The rear creates a sense of breadth with combination taillights that wrap around the sides and a feeling of stability with a trapezoidal silhouette, while the red combination taillights emphasize familiarity.

Toyota’s Technical Preview on the French GP

2007-06-28T00:11:00.000-07:00

After a fair performance at the US Grand Prix, the Toyota F1 team prepares for another battle in the European soil - the French Grand Prix! Here’s Toyota’s Senior General Manager, Pascal Vasselon, to give a few points from their technical preview on the French GP! Check this out Toyota fans!

Sixth place for Jarno and the best result of the season for the team at Indy. Satisfying?

Pascal Vasselon: Jarno gave us an excellent performance. He was very honest about his concern after the incident with Robert Kubica in Montreal. I think Jarno was relieved at the eventual outcome and was able to come to Indianapolis with a clear head and focus fully on the American weekend. He even entered into the spirit of things by arriving every day on a Harley Davidson! His qualifying performance to start eighth was very satisfying, especially when you factor in the fuel load, and he was flat-out all race. He resisted some determined driving by Mark Webber and got us a great sixth place. With the two leading teams monopolising the top four positions again, it was a very strong performance from Jarno. Still, we cannot be totally happy with a sixth place.

But Ralf's problems at Indianapolis struck again?

PV: There's no legislating for that. Ralf certainly doesn't seem to have a lot of luck at Indy. There was a lot of jockeying for position going into Turn 1, Ralf's tyres locked and he made contact with David Coulthard. That was the end of his afternoon, right there at Turn 1.

Ralf set a very quick time in Q1 but then just missed out in Q2. What happened there?

PV: Ralf was actually doing a very good job. His lap time in Q1 was very strong, seventh quickest overall and almost as quick as Jarno's Q2 time. He had a very strong infield sector time but as we saw with a lot of drivers, it was very difficult to put the whole lap together. If Ralf had been able to do the same sector two time in Q2 he would have been in the top 10.

How did Indianapolis go from the operational point of view?

PV: It was quite difficult, for reasons that applied to everyone. You have a combination of two things: first, low downforce because of the long front straight and, second, the asphalt on the infield is low grip, so that makes life difficult for the drivers. That's why we always see a lot of cars struggling for grip at Indy.

Toyota Says No to U.S. Wage Cuts

2007-06-26T01:08:00.001-07:00

The newest and the only non-Japanese member of the board of directors for Toyota, Jim Press, insisted for more possible sales expansion in North America rather than go for Toyota’s U.S. company wage cuts.

He said that the compensation received by workers in exchange for their labor will be unjustifiable if they will have wage cut downs. He asserted that the latest gossip about this matter - paying U.S. assembly line employees with lower compensation - is not true.

The Japanese automaker will boost more of their sales by engaging more to their competence as a brand. This they would do to lessen the cost and this is what they claim to be the most effective way to do so. According to Press, if they will focus on their production, they will make sure that the labor cost will not be sacrificed and be of hindrance to the success of the brand.

This news came into view as the American automakers has been anxious about the legacy costs and the retiree health care. Detroit automakers pay almost 30 percent even more for health care expenses, retirement fund, and wages per hour as compared to their rivals.

It has been said that the $25-an-hour labor cost gap among the Japanese and Detroit automakers will be the main subject in discussion among the United Auto Workers (UAW) this summer. If Ford pays $70.51 per hour earlier this year, GM has labor costs that average $73.26 per hour. Chrysler's labor costs average is $75.86 but Honda, Toyota, and Nissan pays $48 per hour.

Toyota is considered to be Japan's most money-making company with a net profit of 1.64 trillion yen ($13.7 billion) for the economic year jumping up to 20 percent from the earlier year. If you can still remember, this company really started from nothing, unknown, and a total stranger in a foreign land. But now who can imagine that an automaker from a far away land will extend the latest innovations and designs in the industry?

This car brand has had an exemplary performance when it comes to gaining sales and surpassing other rival brands. It outshines among the Detroit carmakers thus leaving Ford and General Motors behind. But Press humbly said that they just want to be number one with the customers and not to the competitors’ perspective.

And this triumph that they are experiencing these days is because of the efforts made by their employees and it is just right to return the favor.

Oh my, I almost forgot that I still have to replace my Volvo antenna and Volvo control arms. Anyway, I’ll just keep you updated with the latest buzz on our favorite car brand.

Toyota Plans to Slow Down Building Factories in U.S.

2007-06-24T23:38:00.001-07:00

This piece of news has been circulating after it was issued last Wednesday. It has been said that Toyota is too anxious about the number of factories that they have in U.S. and the automaker is contemplating on doing a certain action.

Based from the latest report of the Wall Street Journal, the Japanese carmaker has been reaching the peak with regards to their sales and still continuing to enjoy the fruits of their labor.

But then one commented that if Toyota will produce their vehicles in the local plant and ship those vehicles to U.S., they will exceed more of their expected profit. But then, if Toyota will prefer to manufacture those models in the U.S., the cost of production will be much higher.

But, of course, as expected the spokesperson of Toyota from the Tokyo plant, Mr. Tomomi Imai, begged to be excused to have his comments regarding the matter.

If you’re going to research you will find out that majority of the Toyota’s factories has been grouped together in one particular place - and that is well-known as the Toyota City. I just hope that if I go there and take a visit, I will not encounter some talking cars just like what I’ve seen from the animated movie “cars”.

Anyway, back to the topic, when you talk about Toyota factories in the U.S., it has extended factories but not in a single place as compared to that in Japan. The company has facilities extending from Fremont all the way up to Georgetown, Ky.

Imai informed the Associated Press that they just broadcasted that a new plant will be built in Mississippi and three years from now, they going to push through with the production of new models and also do some innovations with their old models. The newest vehicle assembly facility that the company would be building would be the company’s eighth in North America. This action is just part of their goal to maximize competence in manufacturing.

Even though this certain issue came out, still, the U.S. would continue to be their most advantageous market. One proof to this is the warm welcome given by the Americans to the current trend for more fuel-efficient vehicles.

Well then Toyota lovers, let’s all wait and see what will be the latest buzz from our favorite car brand, for now I still have to search if I can receive latest discount for those Nissan CV boots and Nissan EGR valve I ordered for my sister.

New Incentive of Toyota Tundra Trucks

2007-06-22T01:14:00.000-07:00

The Toyota Motor Corp. is now ready to take another step just to make sure that they get optimum sales for their Toyota Tundra trucks. But do you think Toyota Tundra trucks have the guts to compete with other brands in its very own segment?

You want to know whether Tundra has it. Well then, see and experience for yourself the strength, stamina and sheer capability of the vehicle and its ability to do the work you need done. This one works as a true, full-sized truck blazing with an oozing driving performance - enough proof to say that the new Tundra is no ordinary ½-ton.

But what’s this - an incentive from the Toyota Tundra trucks? It was announced last Friday after flourishing sales in U.S. The Toyota brand is working to offer another round of incentives on its full-size Tundra pickup trucks.

Wow, it seems that I’ll be able to stretch my dollar here and I’ll be able to purchase a new Saturn center shoulder seatbelt and a Saturn car bra given the incentives offered all the way through July 31 that includes a choice of zero-percent financing for five years, rebates of up to $3,500, or reductions of $500 on down payments on three-year leases. The monthly payment on the leases remains to be $259, but the down payment drops to $2,499 from $2,999.

Take note that Japan's Toyota was able to surpass the Ford Motor Co. making the latter number two with regards to its sales in U.S. for the month of May. Toyota was able to have improved sales for around 9.7 compared to last year. General Motors Corp. remains to be in the number one spot though.

Actually this is the second round of Tundra incentives for this year. The first one was 3 months ago. That month, Toyota offered low-rate financing and lease deals and a program that granted dealers with three $250 coupons for every regular cab truck in stock, but prior to that month, Toyota broadcasted that the aim of the brand for this year is to sell 200,000 Tundras after selling a maximum of 124,500 last year.

Bill Kwong, the Toyota spokesman, believed that the incentive program that was launched was just a response to a strong rivalry in the full-size pickup segment. The Tundra is competing for a share of the market that has been dominated by Ford's F-Series pickup, GM's Chevrolet Silverado and DaimlerChrysler AG's Dodge Ram for so many years.

And now they are taking every step as they can including the $100 million marketing push that would be spread for two Super Bowl ads and a test-drive campaign with 400 events at state fairs and agricultural shows along with other venues. Another one is the custom-made commercials as well as a fanatical web site and brochure. These are Toyota’s strategies just to sell about 20 percent of the new Tundras in the market.

Technical Preview of Toyota’s Pascal Vasselon on US Grand Prix

2007-06-16T00:44:00.001-07:00

After a not-so-good performance in the recent Canadian Grand Prix, the Toyota Racing team has set their minds to execute well in the upcoming US Grand Prix. After Ralf Schumacher finished eighth in the race at Montreal, Canada, the team is expected to have a good performance and a brilliant finish in the US Grand Prix.

It has been said and done before and after the Canadian GP. But what’s next for Toyota? Let’s all find out by hearing Toyota’s Pascal Vasselon on his technical preview on the upcoming US Grand Prix as I have read from this site!

Can you talk through Jarno's suspension problem in Friday practice in Canada?
Pascal Vasselon: “The problem, which was visible, was that we broke the front right upright around the connection of the lower wishbone. The first thing that guided our analysis was that this upright design is almost two years old, introduced with our major kinematic suspension change with the TF105B at the end of 2005. That told us it was not a basic design problem and we had to look for differences compared to other years because we have already raced in Montreal with this design.”

“We came to the conclusion that the combination of set-up parameters we used to work around the huge rear limitation, which all cars have, was generating interference between the lower wishbone fixation and the upright. We had to find some counter-measures and we implemented two. The first was technical; going back to a range of set-up parameters in terms of camber, ride height and suspension travel that cleared the interference. Secondly, because we didn't want to take any further risks, we asked the drivers to avoid the extreme part of the kerb in Turn 8. I would say it was a unique loading case related to the highest part of that kerb.”

Moving on to Indianapolis, how big a set-up compromise is it?
PV: “It has been said that Indy is two circuits in one - an oval with a Monaco-style infield, two very large compromises from the aerodynamic side. Typically when you scan the simulation for your different possible wing levels, you get a very flat answer. That means that in terms of lap time you can achieve very similar performance with high or low downforce. So Indy is a place where theoretically you could go with a very different downforce level. For the race you have to add another parameter, which is the capacity to pass or avoid being passed, because there are definitely overtaking opportunities. You have the banking on to the long main straight with a very real overtaking possibility at the end of it.”

Versatility and Sophistication in the 2007 Toyota Highlander

2007-06-12T23:15:00.001-07:00

The rise of the all-new 2008 Toyota Highlander has become the ultimate face of the future SUV! The Highlander’s brand new look doesn’t only remind us about the look of the future - it gives us the ultimate definition of an ultimate SUV built for any task for it has been molded to bring the best performance in a premium vehicle!

The 2007 Highlander delivers a sophisticated and versatile vehicle that provides the convenience and the best performance there is in a premium SUV. The 2007 Highlander is the best companion in any outdoor escapade and for any off-road driving experience. You can’t go wrong with this ride because it practically brings the best features plus the styling that we always had wished for in a vehicle.

Last night when I was studying about Saturn cabin filter, I made sure that I get the right info from toyota.com about the 2007 Toyota Highlander for you to further recognize the quality of this car and why is it described as one of the most versatile and most sophisticated rides of today!

16-in5-spoke styled steel wheels with P225/70R16 tires and full-size spare tire
17-in. 5-spoke aluminum alloy wheels with P225/65R17 tires and full-size spare tire on aluminum alloy wheel
17-in. high-polish 5-spoke aluminum alloy wheels with P225/65R17 tires and full-size spare tire on aluminum alloy wheel
17-in. split 5-spoke aluminum alloy wheels with P225/65R17 tires and full-size spare tire on aluminum alloy wheel
3-in-1 AM/FM Cassette/CD with six speakers and fixed mast antenna
3-in-1 AM/FM Cassette/CD with six speakers and in-glass antenna
4-wheel drive with intelligence (4WD-i)
CFC-free automatic digital climate control system with air filter and integrated multi-information display
Chrome door handles
Chrome grille and rear license plate garnish
Chrome-tipped exhaust
Colorkeyed foldable power outside mirrors, grille, door handles, front and rear bumpers, and body side moldings
Colorkeyed front and rear mudguards
Colorkeyed grille with chrome inserts and rear license plate garnish
Color-keyed rear spoiler
Defroster-linked CFC-free air conditioning with air filter
Full-time 4-wheel drive (4WD)
Heated foldable color-keyed power outside mirrors and windshield wiper de-icer grid
JBL® 3-in-1 AM/FM Cassette/6-disc in-dash CD changer, eight speakers in six locations and in-glass antenna with FM diversity reception
JBL® 3-in-1 AM/FM Cassette/CD with eight speakers in six locations and in-glass antenna with FM diversity reception
LED (light-emitting diode) for tail and stop lamps
Power tilt/slide moonroof with sunshade
Privacy glass on rear side, quarter and tailgate windows
Rear window with electric defogger and intermittent wiper
Rear-seat DVD entertainment system with rear-seat audio and two wireless headphones (includes 115V power outlet and RCA jacks)
Roof rack system
Touch-screen DVD navigation system
Towing Prep Package - includes trailer prewiring and transmission oil cooler
UV reduction glass windshield
Washer-linked variable intermittent windshield wipers

The Toyota Prius Commercial: Is It An Exaggeration?

2007-06-09T00:04:00.001-07:00

Everybody loves the Toyota Prius. In fact, most of the stars and celebrities including public figures and politicians are so into this hybrid car from the Toyota Motor Corporation. We can never deny the fact that the Prius is the largest and the most famous hybrid car ever made. It was actually recently regarded as the over all champion in terms of fuel efficiency. No doubt, from its release in 1997, the Toyota Prius has become the most famous and sought after hybrid car of all time.

However, the Toyota Motor Corporation has released a new car advertisement for its top of the line Prius. The commercial was about the latest real time fuel efficiency that reduces the amount of carbon dioxide emission. But however, the viewers were a little disappointed about how they exaggerated the new advertisement.

Saatchi & Saatchi Japan was the one which created the new Prius TV commercial. It claims, "What if all cars were like the Prius, with its hybrid synergy drive technology, it emits up to one tonne less CO2 per year". On-screen text stated "1 tonne of CO2 less than an equivalent family vehicle with a diesel engine. Average calculated on 20,000km a year. Toyota Prius: CO2 emissions: 104g/km".

ASA investigated the real story behind it. And they found out that the charts that were used by the Japanese car maker makes a calculation held data on both diesel and petrol cars as opposed to merely diesel. In addition, only 20,000 km was the standard annual distance driven by most of the private car in the United States while in United Kingdom it is only 13,440 km.

I guess the entire community deserves real time publication, right? Because we all know how the Prius works as a hybrid. From its reputable background, I guess the Japanese company don’t have to exaggerate a bit to sell. The Prius will always sell - I mean it is the best hybrid on the road now, right? So I guess Toyota should do something about it if it is true.

Meanwhile, you can always find good and quality car parts online. The Toyota cold air intake and Toyota bumper are just few among the Toyota car parts you can order over the net.

2007 Toyota Tundra: The Contender Pickup

2007-06-05T23:58:00.000-07:00

Last weekend, I was watching some reruns of the reality TV show “The Contender 2” on the AXN channel. It kinda reminded me about the pickup Toyota Tundra because the vehicle is one of the major sponsors of the show which was hosted by the boxing legend Sugar Ray Lenard. Last season I’ve seen the episode wherein one of the aspiring contenders won a 2006 Tundra courtesy of Toyota. The guy who I believe was Sergio Mora was last season’s ultimate contender. I envy that guy because he was so lucky to have a vehicle like that in an instant (he just picked the right card which is the ace). I’ve been dreaming of this pickup ever since I was in high school because I know the Tundra is one hell of a ride!

Anyway, last night was a busy evening for me. Research here, research there! Fortunately I’ve finished my studies about Nissan engine mounts and the Nissan ignition coil just in time to review the 2007 Toyota Tundra pickup as well.

From the information that I’ve gathered, which I am very glad to share with you, has proven that the Toyota Tundra showcases the best attribute of a powerful pickup that every one is wishing for in a vehicle. Let’s all have a peek once again at the 2007 Toyota Tundra features and specifications! Let’s get to know the contender pickup up close…

Engine

4.0L DOHC 24V V6 with Variable Valve Timing with Intelligence (VVT-i)
236 Horsepower @ 5200 rpm
266 Torque @ 4000 rpm (lb.-ft.)
Aluminum block with aluminum heads. Acoustically Controlled Induction System (ACIS) – dual stage intake manifold
Compression ratio: 10.0:1
Emissions: LEV II
Recommended fuel: 87 octane or higher

Features

Heavy-duty tow hitch receiver, 7-pin connector, Trailer brake controller prewire, Supplemental transmission cooler, TOW/HAUL mode (not available with 4.7L V8), Transmission temperature gauge (not available with 4.7L V8, Maximum Payload Package or Sport Appearance Package), 4.100 rear axle ratio (on 4.7L models) or 4.300 rear axle ratio (on 5.7L models)
V8 Tow Equipment
M/FM CD with auxiliary audio jack and six speakers/JBL® AM/FM 6-disc in-dash CD changer with auxiliary audio jack, 10 speakers including subwoofer, 440W amplifier, Bluetooth® wireless technology capability and steering wheel audio controls
Star Safety SystemTM -- Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) [9] + Traction Control (TRAC), 4-wheel disc Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist
Emergency Locking Retractor (ELR) on driver’s seatbelt, Automatic/Emergency Locking Retractors (ALR/ELR) on all passenger seatbelts
Driver and front passenger seatbelt pretensioners with force limiters
Driver and front outboard passenger airbags with Advanced Airbag System
Front passenger airbag cutoff switch
Child Restraint System (CRS) top tether anchors for center and passenger seats, passenger-side ISO-FIX anchor
Child Restraint System (CRS) top tether anchors for all rear seating positions, ISO-FIX anchors for rear outboard seating positions
Tire Pressure Monitor System
Anti-theft alarm system
Engine immobilizer (V8 models)

2007 Toyota 4Runner: Run with Comfort

2007-06-01T00:56:00.000-07:00

Excellence in auto performance is always constant in all Toyota cars. One of these quality cars is the 2007 Toyota 4Runner which brags not only in auto performance, but in the interior aspects as well.

I was browsing Toyota’s website yesterday because I wanted to know what the new lineup of vehicles would be comprised of for 2007. That’s where I came across the 4Runner. I have gathered some key information for me to further evaluate the vehicle. Then right after, I continued on fixing my Nissan clutch and Nissan distributor caps. I want to share some of the 4Runner’s interior features because based from my study, the 2007 Toyota 4Runner is abundant in interior and comfort features. Check it out!

Defroster-linked CFC-free automatic climate control with rear ventilation and air filter
Defroster-linked CFC-free dual-zone automatic climate control with rear ventilation and air filter
AM/FM CD with six speakers, in-glass FM diversity antenna and MP3/WMA playback capability
AM/FM 6-disc in-dash CD changer with satellite radio capability, six speakers and MP3/WMA playback capability
JBL Synthesis® AM/FM 6-disc CD changer with satellite radio capability, ten speakers and MP3/WMA playback capability
JBL® AM/FM 4-disc CD changer with voice-activated DVD navigation system, satellite radio capability, hands-free phone capability via Bluetooth® wireless technology, backup camera, eight speakers and MP3/WMA playback capability
Auxiliary audio jack (located inside center console)
Rear-seat DVD entertainment system with rear audio remote control, RCA jacks and two wireless headphones
8-way manually adjustable drivers and 4-way passenger fabric seat
High-contrast fabric-trimmed seats
Leather-trimmed interior with 8-way power-adjustable driver’s seat with memory and 4-way power-adjustable passenger seat
Heated front seats
60/40 split fold-down second-row bench seat
Third-row foldaway 50/50 split fold-down removable seats (second-row tumble-forward with third-row seats)
Fabric door trim with silver-tone accents
Leather-wrapped shift knob
Rear-seat center armrest with pull-out cup holders and convenience tray
Cargo area backup mirrors (without JBL Synthesis® audio)
Remote keyless entry system with rear window power-down operation
Power rear window with auto up/down, jam protection and intermittent wiper
Power windows with driver auto-down with jam protection
Power door locks with programmable auto door lock logic
Illuminated instrument cluster gauge needles

The Raging 2007 Toyota Tacoma

2007-05-29T23:45:00.001-07:00

If there’s one pickup truck I admire the most, it would be the 2007 Tacoma! I believe that this vehicle is suited for hard working people and those who love heavy tasks. It’s a perfect blend of power and productiveness! You can’t go wrong with the Tacoma because it is reliable as ever.

When I found myself busy looking for Nissan Altima parts and a Nissan axle assembly yesterday, I spent some time researching for the 2007 Toyota Tacoma’s specifications as well. I’m planning to buy this vehicle after I sell my old car. To those interested in the Tacoma pickup truck, here are the specifications of this vehicle - you might as well like it!

Mechanical and performance features:

2.7-liter DOHC EFI
4-cylinder with VVT-i
159 hp @ 5200 rpm
180 lb.-ft. @ 3800 rpm
4.0-liter DOHC EFI V6 with VVT-i
236 hp @ 5200 rpm
266 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm
4WDemand: part-time 4-wheel drive system with
2-speed electronically controlled transfer case

Transmission features:

5-speed manual transmission with overdrive
6-speed manual transmission
Clutch start-cancel switch
4-speed electronically controlled automatic overdrive
transmission with intelligence (ECT-i)
5-speed electronically controlled automatic overdrive
transmission with intelligence (ECT-i)
Final axle ratio: MT 3.31 4.10 -AT 3.58

Body, suspension, and chassis features:

Body construction One-piece frame rails with seven cross members and fully boxed front sub-frame
Front suspension Coil-spring double wishbone suspension
Rear suspension Leaf spring suspension with staggered outboard-mounted gas shock absorbers
Front stabilizer bar (diameter, in.): 1.18
Steering Variable-assist power rack-and-pinion steering
Steering wheel turns, lock-to-lock: 3.43 3.64
Power-assisted ventilated front disc brakes (diameter, in.) 10.83 12.56
Rear brakes Rear 10-in. drum brakes with tandem booster
4-wheel Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist

Now that we are all familiar with 2007 Toyota Tacoma’s specifications, maybe it’s time to have a new vehicle that would take us to the next level!

A Look Back at 2007 Toyota Yaris

2007-05-24T23:53:00.001-07:00

Recalling Toyota’s latest selection of cars this year made me think constantly about the 2007 Yaris. From my personal standards, this car has the fairest quality every practical and outgoing person needs for his/her modern way of living. When I reviewed this car together with my studies about Nissan taillights and Nissan strut bellow, I realized that the Yaris ’07 offers a great package to new car buyers. And if you can’t make up your mind about choosing a brand new car, maybe these bits of info about the Yaris can provide you with a good option.

Exterior features:

14-in. steel wheels with P175/65R14 tires and full wheel covers
15-in. aluminum alloy wheels with P185/60R15 tires
15-in. steel wheels with P185/60R15 tires and full wheel covers
Color-keyed front and rear under-bumper spoilers
Color-keyed grille surround
Color-keyed lever-adjusted outside mirrors
Color-keyed rear spoiler
Color-keyed side rocker panels
In-glass antenna
Integrated fog lamps
Intermittent windshield wipers
Multi-reflector halogen headlamps
Roof-mounted antenna
unique "S" badge

Interior features:

12V power outlet
60/40 split fold-down rear bench seat
60/40 split, reclining, sliding, fold-flat rear seat
ABS warning lights on ABS-equipped models
Airbag lights
AM/FM CD player with MP3/WMA playback capability and auxiliary audio jack
Audio prep package (four speakers)
battery lights
black-face Optitron speedometer
brake warning lights
check engine lights
Covered center console with storage
Covered rear storage deck box
Cruise control
Cup holders (two front and one rear)
Cut-pile carpeting
Defroster-linked CFC-free air conditioning with air filtration
Digital clock
door-ajar lights
Driver-side glove compartment
Fabric-trimmed 4-way adjustable front seats
frosted-illumination speedometer
fuel level gauge
Heavy-duty electric rear window defroster
Integrated AM/FM CD player with MP3/WMA playback capability, auxiliary audio jack and LCD display screen
LCD odometer
Liftback storage cover
low-fuel level lights
oil pressure lights
Passenger-side dual glove compartments
Remote fuel-filler door and hood releases
Remote keyless entry system with lock, unlock and panic features
Remote trunk release
Seatbelt lights
tachometer with LCD odometer
Tilt steering wheel
twin tripmeters

Lexus Launches Most Expansive Hybrid Model in Japan

2007-05-18T01:58:00.000-07:00

hybrid models. Toyota Motor Corporation, the reigning number 1 automaker in the world has started the sales of the Lexus LS600h and LS600hL hybrid sedans in Lexus dealerships all over Japan. And what is the starting manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP)? Well, for about a hefty $124,000 USD, these two Lexus luxury hybrid models are considered as the most expensive hybrid car in the market today.

With this price, Japanese customers can enjoy the Lexus LS600h and LS600hL's environmental-friendly, fuel efficient, safety, and other features. According to a recent Toyota official press release, these features include:

The world's first hybrid system combining a 5.0-liter V8 engine, a high-output motor, and a full-time all-wheel-drive (AWD) system

Dynamic acceleration on par with a 6-liter powered vehicle

Stable cruising across all speed ranges

Reduced gasoline consumption and lower CO2 emissions by optimal engine and motor control and energy recovery based on four-wheel regenerative braking during deceleration

Improve quietness during acceleration

New 19-inch 7-spoke aluminum wheels

LED low-beam headlamps

Dual-stage SRS (Supplemental Restraint System) airbags for driver and front passenger seat

Combination of full-time all-wheel drive with the VDIM (Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management)

Automatic air-conditioning with an electrically operated inverter compressor

Both the Lexus LS600h and Lexus LS600hL hybrid luxury sedans will be produced in Tahara Assembly Plant. Toyota said they are targeting about 300 units of this models each month. Wait! you don’t need to go to Japan just to purchase this vehicle. Starting next month, Toyota will start rolling out the LS600h and Lexus LS600hL in selected markets in Europe, North America and other parts of Asia. While waiting for that, why not check your auto parts for damages like Toyota or Mercedes CV joint and replace them with new ones? This can ensure your safety when hitting the road.

Toyota Racing Team at the Spanish Grand Prix

2007-05-17T00:58:00.000-07:00

I have a very sad weekend and you don’t want to know why. My idol Ralf Schumacher and the rest of the team had a rough day last May 13, 2007. It was a disappointing weekend for the Panasonic Toyota racing team when they were plagued by a series of misfortunes during the recently held Spanish grand Prix at the Circuit de Catalunya. The day was sunny and we can’t blame the temperature because it was good enough and perfect for the race. But you’ll never know what might happen next especially in competitions as fierce as this one.

Although it was a pretty rough day for every member of the team, at least they’ve finished quite fine at the end of the event. Hopefully the team will recover soon from this very bad nightmare.

I was at the shop having my Chrysler brake pads and Chevrolet pickup valve cover removed when I heard that Toyota plans to test this week at the Paul Ricard circuit in France. They will be preparing for the Monaco Grand Prix this coming May 27. The team is hoping for a great performance and, of course, we are all wishing for good luck!

Here’s what the team has to say after the terrible day in Spanish grand Prix at the Circuit de Catalunya. Ralf Schumacher says: "That was another difficult weekend for me. The start itself was okay and I made up a couple of places. It was a bit messy but from where I was on the grid that is to be expected. There was a bit of chaos at turn 10 when I was hit from behind but that's the way it goes sometimes. I had to pit to check for damage but we were able to continue. From there the race was quite good and at least we were able to keep up a strong pace. Unfortunately the nose then worked loose and I had to retire. Our car has improved but we were far away from where we should have been today so we will have to keep working hard."

Jarno Trulli, on the other hand, replies: "This was one of those days. Unfortunately at the end of the parade lap while I was heading to the grid to take the start, the engine cut out due to a problem with the fuel pressure. That meant we had to take the restart from the pit lane. We managed to get the engine going again using higher revs and then we were able to put in a few laps that looked pretty good. But in the end the problem was too severe to continue further and we had to retire. This is the kind of thing that can happen in motor racing but it was a pity because we qualified well and we were in a good position to fight today. We have made a step forward this weekend but this is the first time we have missed the points this year. Now we have to keep pushing hard to improve both our performance and our reliability."

Tsutomu Tomita, the team principal, does state: "It's obviously disappointing that neither of our cars finished today. Jarno did very well in qualifying but before the start of today's race he had a problem with his fuel line. That made his fuel pressure unstable and meant his engine was not working properly. Ralf made a good start and made up ground before he was hit from behind by Alexander Wurz. He had to pit in to check the car and from there he had good race pace considering the rear left endplate was damaged and he was therefore losing top speed."

"Then he had to stop due to a problem that was an indirect consequence of his crash. After over 40 laps his nose worked loose and we now have to investigate why that happened. The only thing we can say about today is at least the problems all came at the same time, which is very efficient! On a positive note we were pleased to discover we were on similar strategies to the top cars so Jarno's qualifying performance was encouraging. We head to Monaco with a further upgrade on the car so we hope for a more successful weekend there," Tomita says in conclusion.

Toyota's Fuel Cell Hybrid Vehicle

2007-05-15T16:51:00.000-07:00

Toyota Motor Corporation plans to expand its alternative fuel vehicle lineup with the release of the Toyota FCHV (fuel cell hybrid vehicle). Dubbed as the "ultimate eco car", the Toyota FCHV is already in use in some parts of Japan including a transport company located in Nagoya.
Based on the Toyota Kluger (Highlander in other markets) crossover SUV, the Toyota FCHV features aluminum roof, aluminum hood, aluminum fenders, and aluminum side bars. This alternative fuel vehicle also comes with aerodynamic components parts like large rear spoiler and flat underbody.

At the heart of the Toyota FCHV comes a Toyota FC (fuel cell) Stack and a nickel metal hydride (NiMH) battery. It also features an electric-motor hybrid system. Powered by a liquid hydrogen fuel, this powertrain combination offers energy efficiently, quiet acceleration, and zero carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions and other harmful gasses. The Toyota FCHV can reach a maximum driving distance of about 205 miles or 330 kilometers. The car also expanded its eco friendly and energy efficient traits by using natural carbon dioxide as a refrigerant for the vehicle's air conditioning system rather than the conventional CFC (chlorofluorocarbons) or HFC (hydrofluorocarbons). For the real lights, Toyota utilized LED (light emitting diode) technology, just like BMW clear light.

Toyota said some technical components of the FCHV are still under development and the company will push the vehicle's production anytime soon. So let us just wait for the number 1 automaker to introduce the Toyota FCHV soon. Meanwhile, check out these initial specs of the vehicle.

Name: TOYOTA FCHV

Body/Dimensions
Overall length: 4735 mm
Overall width: 1815 mm
Overall height: 1685 mm
Occupant capacity 2 people (modified for freight)
Maximum load capacity 331 pounds (150 kg)

Performance
Maximum speed: 96 mph (155km/h)

Fuel cell
Name: Toyota FC Stack
Type: Polymer electrolyte
Output: 90kW

Motor
Type: Permanent magnet
Maximum output: 90 kW (121 hp)
Maximum torque: 260 Nm (192 lb. ft.)

Fuel
Type: Hydrogen
Storage system: High-pressure hydrogen storage tanks
Maximum storage pressure: 35 MPa

Battery
Type: Nickel-metal hydride

Prius’ Another Triumph Winning 2007 J.D. Power and Associates Awards

2007-05-14T21:06:00.000-07:00

The managing director of Toyota, Miguel Fonseca, said, “This is further proof that Prius, and hybrid in general, has been accepted by the motoring public as the car of the future that delivers today. Irrespective of the great technical achievement of Prius, it needs to succeed as an everyday car for real-world experiences of drivers. We always knew it could and this endorsement by existing owners is evidence they appreciate how Toyota is succeeding in delivering cleaner, more fuel efficient motoring without compromising the performance, convenience and reliability they demand. Overall the results demonstrate Toyota’s all-embracing commitment to the highest levels of service to our customers as well as to quality, reliability and high driver appeal in all our products.”

Prius might need a larger Toyota cold air intake to cool down the temperature because today, it is the hottest hybrid car model. Since it was released in 2004, enormous amounts of orders have been made and this has happened not only in Japan and in the US but in Europe as well. And because it keeps on giving just what the customer needs, it has become the most famous and best selling hybrid car of all time.

And just recently, the Prius topped the 2007 J.D. Power and Associates customer satisfaction study. Also tagged as the cleanest family car, it comes along with its fellow Toyota model Lexus IS in topping the list. Thousands of UK motorists agreed that the Toyota Prius is the most satisfying car to own. Other Toyota brands like the Corolla which landed with the Avensis on the eighth place together. Toyota also has got the Yaris conquering the tenth place on the coveted list. The Toyota Verso was also awarded as the best MPV.

Toyota passed the standards which were: the quality, reliability, service satisfaction, vehicle appeal and economy of the vehicle. Bravo Toyota for being victorious once again.

We are used hearing news about Prius winning another victory. What else is new? Unless if you need a new car part for your old Toyota car, that is new. But kidding aside, I have heard that the Toyota door handle and the Toyota window motor are sold at a very low price over the net. Why don’t have a check and find out which online store deals with a good price.

Toyota and Lexus Dominate UK Consumer Satisfaction Study

2007-05-10T21:25:00.000-07:00

Toyota, the reigning number 1 automaker in the world did it again. The recent study conducted by J.D. Power and Associates and What Car? magazine called the 2007 UK Car Customer Satisfaction Index (CSI) Study shows that British car owners rated Toyota and its luxury division Lexus as the highest automotive brands in terms of customer satisfaction. The Toyota Prius hybrid, along with the Lexus IS was also selected by British owners as the highest-ranking vehicle models with customer satisfaction.

The 2007 UK Car Customer Satisfaction Index (CSI) Study was conducted by J.D. Power and Associates based on consumer response from over 18,000 car owners in the UK, who have owned their vehicle for two years, from September 2005 up to August 2006. The rankings was based on four major categories including:

* Quality and reliability (30%)
* Vehicle appeal (28%), which includes performance, design, comfort and features
* Dealer service satisfaction (22%)
* Ownership costs (19%), which includes fuel consumption, insurance and costs of service/repair

Toyota and Lexus models dominated the list, with the Toyota Prius and the Lexus IS with luxurious auto floor mats tied on the number 1 spot as the highest-ranking model.

Steve Fowler, Editor of What Car? magazine said: "The Toyota Prius clearly demonstrates that car owners think green is good. We know that there’s an increase in consumer interest in environmentally friendly cars here in the UK, and with the Toyota Prius topping the model rankings in the 2007 study, we may be seeing a trend emerging in people’s thinking about these vehicles."

Other Toyota and Lexus models also dominated the list including the Lexus RX (4th overall), Toyota Avensis and Corolla (tied in 8th place), and Toyota Verso (best MPV).

For the 7th consecutive year, Toyota's Lexus brand ranks as the highest followed by Honda, Skoda, Toyota, and Daihatsu.

Toyota Camry Production Begins in Indiana

2007-05-08T22:24:00.001-07:00

I was wondering how many Toyota Camrys are built right now since the last month when the production of the Camry commenced. I’m sure they are assembling auto body parts right now in Indiana!

Oh I remember. It was the Subaru of Indiana automotive or SIA and Toyota who participated in the ceremonies. It was confirmed last March 2006 that Toyota and SIA parent FHI or the Fuji Heavy Industries have agreed that the production of the Toyota Camry will begin in SIA. The FHI president Ikuo Mori and the Toyota Motor Corporation president Katsuaki Watanabe attended the ceremonies last month. SIA associates and Toyota team members were praised involved in the project's progress for their efforts, excellent performance, commitment in producing the best-selling car in America at Subaru of Indiana Automotives.

An investment of $230 million is provided in order for the SIA to build 100,000 Camry units annually. An additional 1,000 associates were brought up to sum up with a total 3,200 associates in SIA.

"Production of the Camry at SIA represents an important start to our business collaboration with Toyota," said Mori. "Together, we were able to accomplish this goal in a short period of time through the efforts of all associates involved in this project."

"Fuji and Toyota faced many challenges for Camry production, including a short amount of preparation time, and we are grateful for the hard work of our associates and team members," said Watanabe. "We look forward to growing a long-term relationship with Fuji, SIA and the local community."

"The Camrys are rolling and so is Indiana," said Governor Mitch Daniels. "We are honored by the new investment in our state and the confidence in Hoosier workers."

Toyota CORR Trucks Specs

2007-05-07T20:50:00.000-07:00

Two of Toyota Motorsports' racing machines for off-road class, the Toyota Tacoma and Tundra, have dominated the CORR (Championship Off Road Racing) Pro-4 and Pro-Lite series for the past years and still counting.

Check out what is inside these two mean racing machines.

Toyota Tundra CORR Pro-4 Truck

ENGINE AND DRIVE TRAIN
Type: i-Force Racing V8, DOHC, 32-Valve, VVT-I
Displacement: 5.5 Liters (337CI)
Power: 600+ hp at 8,000 RPM
Induction: Fuel Injected
Bore: 3.78 inches
Stroke: 3.75 inches
Compression Ratio: 13.5:1
Engine Development & Maintenance: Toyota Racing Development (TRD), U.S.A., Inc.
Fuel: Turbo Blue
Exhaust: Custom Header by Yoshimura
Transmission: 5-speed manual
Clutch: Tilton, 7.5 inch, 3 disk
Front Drive: American Axle
Rear Drive: Precision Gear

CHASSIS/BODY
Chassis: Chromium-Molybdenum Tube Space Frame
Body: Toyota Tundra 4x4 Standard Cab by Boatec
Steering: Tommy Lee power steering
Hoses & Cooler: Earl's Performance Products (hoses/fittings). Setrab (coolers)
Paint: Boatec

SUSPENSION
Type: Coil over shocks
Front: A-arm
Rear: 4-Link
Shock Absorbers: Fox Shocks

WHEELS AND TIRES
Wheels: 17" x 8" Beadlock
Tire: BFGoodrich 35 x 12.50 x 17
Brakes: CNC

DIMENSIONS
Race Weight: 3,900 lbs.
Wheel Base: 116 inches
Wheel Travel: Front - 18 inches. Rear - 20 inches
Overall Length: 204 inches
Overall Width: 92 inches
Height: 65 inches
Ground Clearance: 10 inches
Track Width: Front - 90 inches. Rear - 92 inches.
Fuel Capacity: 15 gallon fuel cell

ADDITIONAL FEATURES
Safety Equipment: Simpson 5-point harness

Toyota CORR Tacoma Pro-Lite Truck Series

ENGINE AND DRIVE TRAIN
Type: Toyota 3RZ, 4-Cylinder, 16-Valve
Displacement: 2.5 Liters
Power: 275 hp
Induction: Weber Carburetors
Bore: 96 mm
Stroke: 86 mm
Compression Ratio: 13:1
Engine Development & Maintenance: Goodwin Competition Racing Engines
Fuel: Turbo Blue
Transmission: 5-Speed Manual
Clutch: Tilton
Final Drive: Precision Gear

CHASSIS/BODY
Chassis: CORR Pro-Lite Chassis built by Kincaid Motorsports
Body: 2005 Toyota Tacoma
Steering: Howe Performance
Seating: Beard Race Seats
Coolers: Setrab
Paint: Fiberglass Gelcoating by Boatec

SUSPENSION
Type: CORR Spec Chassis
Front: A-arm with 12-inch wheel travel
Rear: 4-bar with 14-inch wheel travel
Shock Absorbers: Fox Shocks

WHEELS AND TIRES
Wheels: Custom made by Kincaid Motorsports
Tire: BFGoodrich mud Terrain 32 x 11.50
Brakes: 4-wheel disc brakes

DIMENSIONS
Race Weight: 2,800 lbs.
Wheel Base: 106 inches
Wheel Travel: Front - 12 inches. Rear - 14 inches
Overall Length: 180 inches
Overall Width: 75 inches
Height: 60 inches
Ground Clearance: 10 inches
Track Width: Front - 73 inches. Rear - 73 inches.
Fuel Capacity: 8 gallon Fuel Cell

ADDITIONAL FEATURES
Safety Equipment: 5-point Racing Harness

Owners also probably put Extang tonneau covers on these two truck models while on the garage.

Toyota Unveils Revamped Corolla Verso

2007-05-04T17:20:00.000-07:00

Toyota Motor Corporation has released their fresh revamped model for European customers. Toyota of Europe announced the details of the face lifted Corolla Verso equipped with fresh new look inside and out along with bunch of new features for the customers. Toyota will present the revamped Corolla Verso at this year's Barcelona Motor Show.

The Toyota Corolla Verso comes with new front fascia highlighted by other exterior car parts including new front bumper integrated with the bonnet, mesh-style radiator grille, new shape for the turn indicator lamps, redesigned front headlamps, halogen headlamps, and rear lamps. At the rear, the Toyota Corolla Verso is equipped with new rectangular turn indicator lamp, and new chrome-plate finish in the wider number plate trim.

Inside, the Corolla Verso comes with a host of convenient and comfortable interior amenities for the customers. The car's audio system features MP3 and WMA compatibility along with Bluetooth connectivity. Other interior features include navigation system that uses Michelin-style color coding with 10 European languages and RDS-TMC traffic information, dual-zone automatic air conditioning, Toyota Easy Flat-7 seating system, front Corner Assist Monitor, and rear Parking Assist Monitor. In addition to these features, the Corolla Verso also offers a wide range of active and passive safety systems to protect its occupants. These include nine SRS airbags (including a driver's knee airbag, a steering column energy absorbing mechanism, ISOFIX child seat anchorage system and WIL (Whiplash Injury Lessening) concept seats), Brake Control System, Anti-lock Brakes (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BA), Traction Control (TRC) and Vehicle Stability Control (VSC). With these advanced safety features, the Corolla Verso earned 5 stars in adult safety tests rating conducted by the Euro NCAP (European New Car Assessment Programme).

Under the hood of the new Toyota Corolla Verso is the 2.2 D-4D 135 engine, one of the most advanced clean diesel engine line-ups in Europe, according to Toyota. The engine includes a
Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) catalytic converter to further reduce harmful exhaust emissions.

Toyota NASCAR Update: The Talladega Superspeedway War

2007-05-02T23:20:00.000-07:00

We are once again pumped by the head-ripping NASCAR Nextel cup competition as Toyota and its team battled with other racers at the Talladega speedway last April 29, 2007. It was a hot race but team Toyota has kept their cooling parts intact and their ease as cool as possible as they have been during previous races!

The Toyota Camry completed the race finishing in the 23rd position and prior to this, they were able to take in the 18th spot at the early stretch of the event. The Toyota Camry No. 36 360 OTC Jeremy Mayfield achieved his best finish of the season by taking in the 23rd position.

No. 00 Domino's Pizza Toyota Camry David Reutimann completed the race in the 32nd place after a 14th position start. No. 44 UPS Toyota Camry Dale Jarrett finished in 40th place because of ignition problems and was forced to pull-out and had to spin back to its garage.

The Toyota Camry’s best result was when Brian Vickers finished 10th at the California Speedway last February 25.

Here are some words from the awesome race drivers of Toyota team (from this site):

How was your race?

"It felt good to be competitive today in the 360 OTC Camry and come home with a decent finish here at Talladega. I got hung out a few times during the race that put us behind a little bit, but that's what happens here on restrictor plate tracks. Our team is learning together as the season goes along and obviously it feels good to make the show and run fairly well. I was just glad to be here racing today."

DAVID REUTIMANN, No. 00 Domino's Pizza Toyota Camry, Michael Waltrip Racing (he finished at the 32nd place):

Can you talk about what a great run you were having and suddenly your day was over?

"I'm so bummed out. I had a chance to run pretty good today, I thought. That stuff happens and I'm just disappointed for the whole team. The way we ran out there today had nothing to do with the driver -- it had everything to do with the car this team built. I hated to oil the track down like that, but I couldn't see to get down to the bottom of the track, all I was doing was looking out at the wall."

What was your feeling running up in the third position?

"To be honest, I was sitting up there just waiting for something to happen. I didn't know if somebody was going to run over me or if something was going to break. Things were going too good all day long, you hate to look at it that way, but that's Talladega. I'm thankful that today was a pretty safe race, but I'm disappointed that I didn't get to race for the win there at the end."

What does this say about the Toyotas - being able to run this strong here today?

"It's a restrictor plate race and that's a completely different animal. Toyota worked really hard on their plate program from Daytona and they've made it better. I'm proud of everybody at TRD and within Toyota's organization -- I'm not disappointed with that at all. Today was just a situation where stuff breaks no matter how hard you work on it. We'll regroup and we still have a good speedway car for Daytona so we'll go from there."

Toyota to debut Endo at 2007 Frankfurt Motor Show

2007-05-01T05:38:00.000-07:00

In the news: Automotive News is reporting that Toyota will be debuting a new model during this year's Frankfurt Motor Show. Toyota's 3000mm-long microcar, according to reports, will be known as the Endo and will slot in below the Aygo, the smallest vehicle in the automaker's European lineup.

Virtually sharing the same DNA and auto body parts as the concept which debuted at the 2005 Frankfurt Motor Show, the SMART-competitor features a seating arrangement which is somewhat unconventional: a 3+1 setup that will be able to seat three adults, and a smaller, foldable throne behind the driver's seat that can fit the youngest member of the family.

There are speculations that sales of this new little car may begin in the summer of 2008. But I guess that before this one comes to U.S. shores the other little car – the SMART car – should better get their business booming.

Toyota Cutting 370 Jobs in Indiana Temporarily

2007-04-27T23:34:00.000-07:00

The Toyota Motor Corporation received a declining demand on its SUVs made at the company’s Gibson County plant. And this is the reason why they had to cut off 370 jobs in Indiana. The officials of Toyota confirms this day. Well, I guess they really have to if their company doesn’t need them anymore.

According to the Toyota Motor Manufacturing Indiana’s spokeswoman, Kelly Dillon, the Toyota workers who would be affected by such a decision have already been notified about the possibility of job cuts happening this week. However, 4,700 workers of Toyota were not affected by the abrupt job cuts. These 370 employees are working on by the Greenwood, Indiana-based Personnel Management, the particular facility that supplies the Toyota Motor Corporation the temporary work force which can be decreased or increase depending on the demands of the workplace.

Dillon said, “Since this is a cyclical industry, it will go up and it will go down.” The spokeswoman also pointed out that they are looking for other employment for the 370 workers that will be affected by the job cut. They are actually working with the Personnel Management for this matter. Toyota actually owns a Subaru plant located in Lafayette and some of its affected workers will be employed on the particular outlet.

She also informs that some of its workers are helping with the operations in the San Antonio plants in the preparation for the Indiana plant which will be building the new Toyota Tundra pickup unit that is expected to be released this year. Toyota parts as well as other important auto body parts are also built on the particular site. And the declining demand that happened to its Sequoia is just another factor.