Ryan Millen Back Behind the Wheel with New Co-Driver in a New Series to Carve New Paths
In 2016, Team Ryan Millen and the Rally RAV4 proved that a stock powertrain, front-wheel-drive RAV4 can be quite potent. This season, the Toyota Rally RAV4 and Millen are gearing up for more competition in 2017. Armed with new navigator and co-driver, Rhianon Gelsomino, the team will compete in the newly formed American Rally Association (ARA) series. In addition, the team will compete in select Rally America and NASA Rally Sport races.
After competing in 12 races and two series during the 2016 season, the team walked away with multiple class wins, a rookie of the year title and 2nd place in the Rally America 2WD Championship. In addition, the Rally RAV4 and Millen captured the NASA Rally Sport National Championship for the second year in a row.
“The Toyota racing family is incredibly proud of the achievements of the Rally RAV4 team, and can’t wait to see what they do with the 2017 season in the new ARA circuit,” said Keith Dahl, general manager, motorsports. “This program allows us to continue to reach fans across the country and demonstrate first-hand how truly capable our RAV4 is for any type of adventure.”
Starting the season with a new co-driver and navigator can be challenging, but Millen and Gelsomino had a chance to gel last year after running together in select events. Gelsomino comes with over a decade of experience working with teams and drivers around the world, and will make a valuable addition to the Rally RAV4 program.
“I’m looking forward to building on the pace notes from last year, and hope it will give us even more of a competitive advantage,” said Millen. “Last year was amazing, but you have to look forward, and I think we’re in a great position to show once again what the Rally RAV4 is made of.”
“I am really looking forward to working with Ryan and Toyota USA this season. Ryan and I competed together last season in a one off test event in NASA which I am happy to say we won,” said Gelsomino. “We worked really well as a team and it was great to see his abilities behind the wheel of the RAV4. I can't wait to get the season started and see what's possible this season.”
The first event will take place February 4, 2017 in Maniwaki, Canada. The Rally Perce Neige consists of 143 stage miles of gravel roads covered in snow and ice.
Gelsomino stepping into the role of navigator will allow Christina Fate to focus solely on team management. Both roles are critical to the performance of any rally team, so dividing and conquering should yield great results.
Driver and co-driver chemistry is essential, but this year the team will have an advantage they didn’t have last year. They’ll be running for the second time at many of the rallies on the schedule. This familiarity could yield a real competitive advantage. As potent as Team Millen and the Rally RAV4 were the first time out, there’s no replacement for seat time.
The RAV4, as in previous years, will continue to take on the brutal rally world with a stock engine and automatic transmission. Fans across the country were continually shocked and impressed at the potency of the Rally RAV4, which spins only the front wheels through a conventional six-speed automatic gear box.
The Rally RAV4 this year will debut new livery with title sponsor JBL, and the continued support of Toyota Certified Used Vehicles, Yakima, TEIN, and Method Race Wheels.
As one of Toyota’s best-selling vehicles, the RAV4 achieved another record year in 2016, selling more than 352,000 vehicles. That’s nearly 40,000 more than the year prior.
More information on the Rally RAV4 program can be found at www.RallyRAV4.com.
More information on American Rally Association can be found at www.americanrallyassociation.org.
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Saturday, January 28, 2017
Sunday, January 22, 2017
New 'Hydrogen Council' Launches in Davos
Thirteen Global Industry Leaders Join Together in Promoting Hydrogen to Help Meet Climate Goals
Thirteen leading energy, transport and industry companies have today launched a global initiative to voice a united vision and long-term ambition for hydrogen to foster the energy transition.
In the first global initiative of its kind, the 'Hydrogen Council' is determined to position hydrogen among the key solutions of the energy transition. Hydrogen is a versatile energy carrier with favorable characteristics since it does not release any CO2 at the point of use as a clean fuel or energy source, and can play an important role in the transition to a clean, low-carbon, energy system. Hydrogen technologies and products have significantly progressed over past years and are now being introduced to the market. The Council will work with, and provide recommendations to, a number of key stakeholders such as policy makers, business and hydrogen players, international agencies and civil society to achieve these goals.
During the launch, members of the 'Hydrogen Council' confirmed their ambition to accelerate their significant investment in the development and commercialization of the hydrogen and fuel cell sectors. These investments currently amount to an estimated total value of €1.4 Bn/year1. This acceleration will be possible if the key stakeholders increase their backing of hydrogen as part of the future energy mix with appropriate policies and supporting schemes.
Meeting in Davos for the first time on Tuesday, the 'Hydrogen Council' is currently made up of 13 CEOs and Chairpersons from various industries and energy companies committed to help achieve the ambitious goal of reaching the 2 degrees Celsius target as agreed in the 2015 Paris Agreement. The international companies currently involved are: Air Liquide, Alstom, Anglo American, BMW GROUP, Daimler, ENGIE, Honda, Hyundai, Kawasaki, Royal Dutch Shell, The Linde Group, Total and Toyota. The Council is led by two Co-Chairs from different geographies and sectors, currently represented by Air Liquide and Toyota.
"The 2015 Paris Agreement to combat climate change is a significant step in the right direction but requires business action to be taken to make such a pledge a reality. The Hydrogen Council brings together some of the world's leading industrial, automotive and energy companies with a clear ambition to explain why hydrogen emerges among the key solutions for the energy transition, in the mobility as well as in the power, industrial and residential sectors, and therefore requires the development of new strategies at a scale to support this. But we cannot do it alone. We need governments to back hydrogen with actions of their own?for example through large-scale infrastructure investment schemes. Our call today to world leaders is to commit to hydrogen so that together we can meet our shared climate ambitions and give further traction to the emerging Hydrogen ecosystem." BenoƮt Potier, CEO, Air Liquide.
"The Hydrogen Council will exhibit responsible leadership in showcasing hydrogen technology and its benefits to the world. It will seek collaboration, cooperation and understanding from governments, industry and most importantly, the public. At Toyota, we have always tried to play a leading role in environmental and technological advances in the automotive industry, including through the introduction of fuel cell vehicles. Moreover, we know that in addition to transportation, hydrogen has the potential to support our transition to a low carbon society across multiple industries and the entire value chain. The Hydrogen Council aims to actively encourage this transition." Takeshi Uchiyamada, Chairman, Toyota.
A report entitled 'How Hydrogen empowers the energy transition2'?commissioned by the Hydrogen Council?further details this future potential that hydrogen is ready to provide, and sets out the vision of the Council and the key actions it considers fundamental for policy makers to implement, to fully unlock and empower the contribution of hydrogen to the energy transition.
As global companies from major energy and industrial sectors, it is part of the corporate responsibility to provide solutions to manage the energy transition and move forward to a low-carbon, sustainable economy: joint action is required to tackle this formidable challenge. This is why we invite governments and key society stakeholders to also acknowledge the contribution of hydrogen to the energy transition and to work with us to create an effective implementation plan.
The members of the Hydrogen Council collectively represent total revenues of €1.07 trillion and 1.72 million employees around the world3.
1 How Hydrogen empowers the energy transition, Report, 2017, Hydrogen Council
2 www.hydrogencouncil.com
3 Company figures from financial years 2015 and 2016
ABOUT HYDROGEN
Hydrogen is a versatile, clean, and safe energy carrier that can be used as fuel for power or in industry as feedstock, as well as it can be easily stored on large scale. Hydrogen Council members are committed to promoting its deployment. Hydrogen can be produced from (renewable) electricity and from carbon-abated fossil fuels and produces zero emissions at point of use. The uses for hydrogen continue to grow as it can be stored and transported at high energy density in liquid or gaseous form and can be combusted or used in fuel cells to generate heat and electricity. This versatility confers to hydrogen a key enabling role in the transport, industry and residential sectors, as well as for the large-scale storage of renewable intermittent energies, making it a promising solution to overcome the challenges of the energy transition.
Thirteen leading energy, transport and industry companies have today launched a global initiative to voice a united vision and long-term ambition for hydrogen to foster the energy transition.
In the first global initiative of its kind, the 'Hydrogen Council' is determined to position hydrogen among the key solutions of the energy transition. Hydrogen is a versatile energy carrier with favorable characteristics since it does not release any CO2 at the point of use as a clean fuel or energy source, and can play an important role in the transition to a clean, low-carbon, energy system. Hydrogen technologies and products have significantly progressed over past years and are now being introduced to the market. The Council will work with, and provide recommendations to, a number of key stakeholders such as policy makers, business and hydrogen players, international agencies and civil society to achieve these goals.
During the launch, members of the 'Hydrogen Council' confirmed their ambition to accelerate their significant investment in the development and commercialization of the hydrogen and fuel cell sectors. These investments currently amount to an estimated total value of €1.4 Bn/year1. This acceleration will be possible if the key stakeholders increase their backing of hydrogen as part of the future energy mix with appropriate policies and supporting schemes.
Meeting in Davos for the first time on Tuesday, the 'Hydrogen Council' is currently made up of 13 CEOs and Chairpersons from various industries and energy companies committed to help achieve the ambitious goal of reaching the 2 degrees Celsius target as agreed in the 2015 Paris Agreement. The international companies currently involved are: Air Liquide, Alstom, Anglo American, BMW GROUP, Daimler, ENGIE, Honda, Hyundai, Kawasaki, Royal Dutch Shell, The Linde Group, Total and Toyota. The Council is led by two Co-Chairs from different geographies and sectors, currently represented by Air Liquide and Toyota.
"The 2015 Paris Agreement to combat climate change is a significant step in the right direction but requires business action to be taken to make such a pledge a reality. The Hydrogen Council brings together some of the world's leading industrial, automotive and energy companies with a clear ambition to explain why hydrogen emerges among the key solutions for the energy transition, in the mobility as well as in the power, industrial and residential sectors, and therefore requires the development of new strategies at a scale to support this. But we cannot do it alone. We need governments to back hydrogen with actions of their own?for example through large-scale infrastructure investment schemes. Our call today to world leaders is to commit to hydrogen so that together we can meet our shared climate ambitions and give further traction to the emerging Hydrogen ecosystem." BenoƮt Potier, CEO, Air Liquide.
"The Hydrogen Council will exhibit responsible leadership in showcasing hydrogen technology and its benefits to the world. It will seek collaboration, cooperation and understanding from governments, industry and most importantly, the public. At Toyota, we have always tried to play a leading role in environmental and technological advances in the automotive industry, including through the introduction of fuel cell vehicles. Moreover, we know that in addition to transportation, hydrogen has the potential to support our transition to a low carbon society across multiple industries and the entire value chain. The Hydrogen Council aims to actively encourage this transition." Takeshi Uchiyamada, Chairman, Toyota.
A report entitled 'How Hydrogen empowers the energy transition2'?commissioned by the Hydrogen Council?further details this future potential that hydrogen is ready to provide, and sets out the vision of the Council and the key actions it considers fundamental for policy makers to implement, to fully unlock and empower the contribution of hydrogen to the energy transition.
As global companies from major energy and industrial sectors, it is part of the corporate responsibility to provide solutions to manage the energy transition and move forward to a low-carbon, sustainable economy: joint action is required to tackle this formidable challenge. This is why we invite governments and key society stakeholders to also acknowledge the contribution of hydrogen to the energy transition and to work with us to create an effective implementation plan.
The members of the Hydrogen Council collectively represent total revenues of €1.07 trillion and 1.72 million employees around the world3.
1 How Hydrogen empowers the energy transition, Report, 2017, Hydrogen Council
2 www.hydrogencouncil.com
3 Company figures from financial years 2015 and 2016
ABOUT HYDROGEN
Hydrogen is a versatile, clean, and safe energy carrier that can be used as fuel for power or in industry as feedstock, as well as it can be easily stored on large scale. Hydrogen Council members are committed to promoting its deployment. Hydrogen can be produced from (renewable) electricity and from carbon-abated fossil fuels and produces zero emissions at point of use. The uses for hydrogen continue to grow as it can be stored and transported at high energy density in liquid or gaseous form and can be combusted or used in fuel cells to generate heat and electricity. This versatility confers to hydrogen a key enabling role in the transport, industry and residential sectors, as well as for the large-scale storage of renewable intermittent energies, making it a promising solution to overcome the challenges of the energy transition.
Saturday, January 21, 2017
Good Housekeeping Names Toyota Prius Two Eco ‘Best New Hybrid’
Good Housekeeping this week announced the winners of its Best New Car Awards for 2017, and selected the 2016 Toyota Prius Two Eco as the Best New Hybrid. The Awards appear in the February issue, on newsstands January 17.
The Good Housekeeping Institute worked with Car and Driver, the leading authority on all things automotive, to screen more than 100 new vehicles, narrowing it down to the top 25 for further scrutiny. After driving over 1,200 miles on test tracks and open roads, engineers from the GHI Labs and consumer testers rated cars on value, safety, smoothness, handling, interior design and comfort and onboard technology.
“It’s a money-saving hybrid with a sleek, futuristic design,” says Good Housekeeping. “The knockout gas mileage you can expect from a Prius improves with every new model, and this one is no exception.”
About Good Housekeeping
Celebrating 130 years, Good Housekeeping (goodhousekeeping.com) is a leading lifestyle media brand inspiring a monthly audience of 30+ million readers to discover genius innovations, delicious ideas, style-savvy trends, compelling news and best-in-class products for their homes, families and themselves. The Good Housekeeping Institute’s state-of-the-art labs combined with Good Housekeeping’s seasoned editorial talent is unparalleled. Staffed by top engineers, scientists and technology experts, the GH Institute tests and evaluates thousands of products each year for the magazine, website and for the Good Housekeeping Seal and the Green Good Housekeeping Seal, which are among the most recognized and trusted consumer icons in the world today. Good Housekeeping, which also has five international editions, is published by Hearst Magazines, a unit of Hearst, one of the nation’s largest diversified media, information and services companies. With 21 titles in the U.S., Hearst is the leading publisher of monthly magazines in terms of total paid circulation, and reaches 79.5 million readers and 68 million unique site visitors each month (comScore). Follow Good Housekeeping on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Pinterest and on the Inside the Institute blog. Follow Jane Francisco on Twitter and Instagram.
Celebrating 130 years, Good Housekeeping (goodhousekeeping.com) is a leading lifestyle media brand inspiring a monthly audience of 30+ million readers to discover genius innovations, delicious ideas, style-savvy trends, compelling news and best-in-class products for their homes, families and themselves. The Good Housekeeping Institute’s state-of-the-art labs combined with Good Housekeeping’s seasoned editorial talent is unparalleled. Staffed by top engineers, scientists and technology experts, the GH Institute tests and evaluates thousands of products each year for the magazine, website and for the Good Housekeeping Seal and the Green Good Housekeeping Seal, which are among the most recognized and trusted consumer icons in the world today. Good Housekeeping, which also has five international editions, is published by Hearst Magazines, a unit of Hearst, one of the nation’s largest diversified media, information and services companies. With 21 titles in the U.S., Hearst is the leading publisher of monthly magazines in terms of total paid circulation, and reaches 79.5 million readers and 68 million unique site visitors each month (comScore). Follow Good Housekeeping on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Pinterest and on the Inside the Institute blog. Follow Jane Francisco on Twitter and Instagram.
Thursday, January 19, 2017
Toyota Production in North America Exceeds 2 Million Again in 2016
More than 30 Million Vehicles Produced in North America Since 1986
In 2016, Toyota achieved another record year of North American vehicle production with 2,124,608 vehicles built at its North American vehicle assembly plants. Production volume was up 4.4 percent over the previous year total of 2,035,028 vehicles.
Toyota’s total vehicle production in North America since 1986 has reached more than 30 million. Key drivers of this year’s increased production include low fuel prices, continued stability in the overall economy and strong customer demand for trucks and SUVs.
“Our success is driven by the talent and dedication of the men and women who manufacture our products here in the U.S.,” said Jim Lentz, CEO of Toyota Motor North America (TMNA). “Every part and every vehicle that rolls off the line reflects our commitment to safety, quality, value, and, above all, our passion for exceeding customer expectations.”
Toyota marked milestone anniversaries in 2016 for the following manufacturing facilities:
The company also broke ground for its 15th, state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Apaseo el Grande, Guanajuato in November; the new plant is scheduled to begin Corolla production in 2019.
Toyota produces 13 models in North America including: Avalon, Camry, Corolla, Highlander, RAV4, Sequoia, Sienna, Tacoma, Tundra, Lexus RX 350, Lexus ES 350, Yaris and Yaris iA. Toyota directly employs more than 44,000 people.
*Includes hybrid engine production
**TMMWV’s total 6 speed automatic transmission production for 2016 was 626,762.
In 2016, Toyota achieved another record year of North American vehicle production with 2,124,608 vehicles built at its North American vehicle assembly plants. Production volume was up 4.4 percent over the previous year total of 2,035,028 vehicles.
Toyota’s total vehicle production in North America since 1986 has reached more than 30 million. Key drivers of this year’s increased production include low fuel prices, continued stability in the overall economy and strong customer demand for trucks and SUVs.
“Our success is driven by the talent and dedication of the men and women who manufacture our products here in the U.S.,” said Jim Lentz, CEO of Toyota Motor North America (TMNA). “Every part and every vehicle that rolls off the line reflects our commitment to safety, quality, value, and, above all, our passion for exceeding customer expectations.”
Toyota marked milestone anniversaries in 2016 for the following manufacturing facilities:
- Cambridge, Ontario - 30 years
- Georgetown, Kentucky - 30 years
- Princeton, Indiana - 20 years
- Buffalo, West Virginia - 20 years
- Huntsville, Alabama - 15 years
The company also broke ground for its 15th, state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Apaseo el Grande, Guanajuato in November; the new plant is scheduled to begin Corolla production in 2019.
Toyota produces 13 models in North America including: Avalon, Camry, Corolla, Highlander, RAV4, Sequoia, Sienna, Tacoma, Tundra, Lexus RX 350, Lexus ES 350, Yaris and Yaris iA. Toyota directly employs more than 44,000 people.
Toyota North American Vehicle Production | |||
Manufacturing Site | Model | 2016 | 2015 |
Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Kentucky, Inc. (TMMK) | Avalon | 43,800 | 56,928 |
Avalon Hybrid | 7,098 | 12,159 | |
Camry | 366,302 | 332,588 | |
Camry Hybrid | 34,157 | 32,811 | |
Venza | 5,821 | 19,094 | |
ES 350 | 43,588 | 4,088 | |
Total | 500,766 | 457,668 | |
Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Indiana, Inc. (TMMI) | Highlander | 222,578 | 192,905 |
Highlander Hybrid | 6,935 | 5,422 | |
Sequoia | 20,441 | 22,842 | |
Sienna | 151,905 | 154,478 | |
Total | 401,859 | 375,647 | |
Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Mississippi, Inc. (TMMMS) | Corolla | 182,025 | 190,514 |
Total | 182,025 | 190,514 | |
Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Texas, Inc. (TMMTX) | Tacoma | 127,884 | 110,911 |
Tundra | 133,767 | 121,999 | |
Total | 261,651 | 232,910 | |
Subaru Indiana Automotive, Inc. (SIA) | Camry | 35,945 | 79,843 |
Total | 35,945 | 79,843 | |
Toyota Motor Manufacturing Canada, Inc. (TMMC) | Corolla | 237,553 | 252,362 |
RX 350 | 105,887 | 87,974 | |
RX 350 Hybrid | 7,931 | 8,076 | |
RAV4 | 250,345 | 242,311 | |
Total | 601,716 | 590,723 | |
Toyota Motor Manufacturing de Baja California (TMMBC) | Tacoma | 97,145 | 82,328 |
Total | 97,145 | 82,328 | |
Mazda Motor Manufacturing de Mexico S.A. de C.V. (MMVO) | Toyota Yaris / Yaris iA | 43,501 | 25,395 |
Total | 43,501 | 25,395 | |
Total Vehicle Production | Grand Total | 2,124,608 | 2,035,028 |
Toyota North American Engine Production in 2016 | ||
Manufacturing Site | Engine | 2016 |
Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Kentucky, Inc. (TMMK) | 4-cylinder* | 409,680 |
V6 | 210,058 | |
Total | 619,738 | |
Toyota Motor Manufacturing, West Virginia, Inc. (TMMWV)** | 4-cylinder | 421,428 |
V6 | 241,457 | |
Total | 662,885 | |
Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Alabama, Inc. (TMMAL) | 4-cylinder | 281,527 |
V6 | 266,193 | |
V8 | 154,297 | |
Total | 702,017 | |
Total Engine Production | Grand Total | 1,984,640 |
*Includes hybrid engine production
**TMMWV’s total 6 speed automatic transmission production for 2016 was 626,762.
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Monday, January 16, 2017
IIHS Top Safety Pick+ Award Comes Standard on the 2017 Toyota Highlander
Toyota Maintains Lead as Top Safety Pick Frontrunner for 2017
Toyota maintains its lead with the most Insurance Institute for Highway Safety’s (IIHS) Top Safety Pick + (TSP+) awards of all manufacturers. The Toyota Highlander is the 10th 2017 TSP+ award for Toyota/Lexus. With the three 2017 TSP awards (Avalon, Lexus CT and Yaris iA), Toyota has a combined total of 13 awards.
According to IIHS, the 2017 Toyota Highlander earns the TSP+ award recognizing good crash protection across the board, including a superior-rated front crash prevention system and acceptable-rated headlights. And, unlike most TOP SAFETY PICK+ winners, which meet the front crash prevention and headlight criteria when they are equipped with optional features, the Highlander qualifies for the award with standard equipment.
“Toyota is firmly committed to a wide range of initiatives further enhancing the safety of Toyota vehicles and peace of mind for our customers,” said Jeff Makarewicz, Toyota’s North American Vehicle, Quality & Safety Engineering Group Vice President. “This sincere dedication to safety by our engineers resulted in another IIHS Top Safety pick for Toyota.”
To qualify for 2017 TSP+, a vehicle must earn good ratings in the five IIHS crashworthiness tests—small overlap front, moderate overlap front, side, roof strength and head restraints—as well as an advanced or superior rating for front crash prevention and an acceptable or good headlight rating.
2017 Toyota and Lexus TOP SAFETY PICK+ winners:
2017 Toyota and Lexus TOP SAFETY PICK winners:
Toyota maintains its lead with the most Insurance Institute for Highway Safety’s (IIHS) Top Safety Pick + (TSP+) awards of all manufacturers. The Toyota Highlander is the 10th 2017 TSP+ award for Toyota/Lexus. With the three 2017 TSP awards (Avalon, Lexus CT and Yaris iA), Toyota has a combined total of 13 awards.
According to IIHS, the 2017 Toyota Highlander earns the TSP+ award recognizing good crash protection across the board, including a superior-rated front crash prevention system and acceptable-rated headlights. And, unlike most TOP SAFETY PICK+ winners, which meet the front crash prevention and headlight criteria when they are equipped with optional features, the Highlander qualifies for the award with standard equipment.
“Toyota is firmly committed to a wide range of initiatives further enhancing the safety of Toyota vehicles and peace of mind for our customers,” said Jeff Makarewicz, Toyota’s North American Vehicle, Quality & Safety Engineering Group Vice President. “This sincere dedication to safety by our engineers resulted in another IIHS Top Safety pick for Toyota.”
To qualify for 2017 TSP+, a vehicle must earn good ratings in the five IIHS crashworthiness tests—small overlap front, moderate overlap front, side, roof strength and head restraints—as well as an advanced or superior rating for front crash prevention and an acceptable or good headlight rating.
2017 Toyota and Lexus TOP SAFETY PICK+ winners:
- Toyota Highlander
- Toyota Prius (built after Aug. 2016)
- Toyota Corolla
- Toyota Camry
- Toyota Prius v
- Lexus RC
- Lexus ES 350
- Toyota RAV4
- Lexus NX
- Lexus RX
2017 Toyota and Lexus TOP SAFETY PICK winners:
- Toyota Yaris iA
- Toyota Avalon
- Lexus CT 200h
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Sunday, January 15, 2017
Toyota Unveils 2018 NASCAR Camry at North American International Auto Show
Coincides with 2018 Production Model Reveal
In an unprecedented event, Toyota unveiled its 2018 NASCAR Toyota Camry race car in unison with the debut of the 2018 production Camry at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit. Following a dramatic redesign to its show room counterpart, the Camry race car will compete on the race track in 2017 as Toyota defends its NASCAR Premier Series manufacturer’s championship.
“The 2018 Toyota Camry NASCAR race car has been years in the making, and to unveil it simultaneously with our new production Camry is a milestone moment for our organization,” said Ed Laukes, Vice President of Integrated Marketing Operations for Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A. “The collaboration between Calty Design Group and TRD has produced a NASCAR Camry that showcases aggressive styling that is sure to turn heads on the race track and among our fans in Toyota showrooms across the country. Reimagining both the Camry race car and its production counterpart has been a tremendous undertaking and our goal has been to maintain parallel design characteristics so our fans can enjoy driving a Camry that closely resembles the one their favorite NASCAR driver races each weekend.”
Spearheaded by Camry chief designer Masato Katsumata, the production Camry received a radical redesign for 2018 and engineers from Calty Design Research, Inc., Toyota’s North American design studio, and TRD, U.S.A. (Toyota Racing Development) worked together to ensure the NASCAR Camry showcased the same aggressive attributes as its updated production sibling. TRD and Calty worked together with NASCAR throughout the process.
Calty previously worked with Toyota and TRD to update the NASCAR Camry when NASCAR introduced its Gen-6 models in 2013, and again when Toyota updated the Camry race car in 2015. The design group also worked with TRD on the 2015 NASCAR XFINITY Series Camry, the 2014 Toyota Tundra for the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series and the current NHRA Funny Car Camry.
Toyota entered NASCAR Premier Series competition with the Camry in 2007 and the manufacturer won its first driver’s championship in 2015, followed by its first manufacturer’s championship in 2016. Camry drivers have won 95 NASCAR Premier Series races over 10 seasons.
The NASCAR Camry will make its debut on-track in 2017 prior to the 2018 production Camry hitting showroom floors at Toyota dealerships later this year. The NASCAR Camry will first compete at Daytona International Speedway on February 18 in The Clash at Daytona before defending its Daytona 500 title on Sunday, Feb. 26.
For more information on the new 2018 Toyota Camry, please visit http://toyota.us/2hsVMi3.
In an unprecedented event, Toyota unveiled its 2018 NASCAR Toyota Camry race car in unison with the debut of the 2018 production Camry at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit. Following a dramatic redesign to its show room counterpart, the Camry race car will compete on the race track in 2017 as Toyota defends its NASCAR Premier Series manufacturer’s championship.
“The 2018 Toyota Camry NASCAR race car has been years in the making, and to unveil it simultaneously with our new production Camry is a milestone moment for our organization,” said Ed Laukes, Vice President of Integrated Marketing Operations for Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A. “The collaboration between Calty Design Group and TRD has produced a NASCAR Camry that showcases aggressive styling that is sure to turn heads on the race track and among our fans in Toyota showrooms across the country. Reimagining both the Camry race car and its production counterpart has been a tremendous undertaking and our goal has been to maintain parallel design characteristics so our fans can enjoy driving a Camry that closely resembles the one their favorite NASCAR driver races each weekend.”
Spearheaded by Camry chief designer Masato Katsumata, the production Camry received a radical redesign for 2018 and engineers from Calty Design Research, Inc., Toyota’s North American design studio, and TRD, U.S.A. (Toyota Racing Development) worked together to ensure the NASCAR Camry showcased the same aggressive attributes as its updated production sibling. TRD and Calty worked together with NASCAR throughout the process.
Calty previously worked with Toyota and TRD to update the NASCAR Camry when NASCAR introduced its Gen-6 models in 2013, and again when Toyota updated the Camry race car in 2015. The design group also worked with TRD on the 2015 NASCAR XFINITY Series Camry, the 2014 Toyota Tundra for the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series and the current NHRA Funny Car Camry.
Toyota entered NASCAR Premier Series competition with the Camry in 2007 and the manufacturer won its first driver’s championship in 2015, followed by its first manufacturer’s championship in 2016. Camry drivers have won 95 NASCAR Premier Series races over 10 seasons.
The NASCAR Camry will make its debut on-track in 2017 prior to the 2018 production Camry hitting showroom floors at Toyota dealerships later this year. The NASCAR Camry will first compete at Daytona International Speedway on February 18 in The Clash at Daytona before defending its Daytona 500 title on Sunday, Feb. 26.
For more information on the new 2018 Toyota Camry, please visit http://toyota.us/2hsVMi3.
Monday, January 9, 2017
Ante Raised: All-New 2018 Toyota Camry Gains Emotionally-Charged Design and Performance Experience
- Best-selling car in America... assembled in America, by Americans, for Americans
- Aggressive exterior character lines and low center of gravity
- Spacious interior with advanced driver focus
- New gas and hybrid powertrains generate more horsepower and greater estimated MPG
- Standard Toyota Safety Sense-P
It almost isn’t fair. Toyota Camry, the best-selling car in America for the past 15 years, is about to ruffle some feathers. The eighth-generation sedan has gone through a total evolution, from a proven, dependable and safe car to one that also possesses a more exciting and emotional character, thanks to its newfound sporty performance and style.
The new Camry utilizes TNGA (Toyota New Global Architecture) which represents a completely new strategy to the way the company designs, engineers, and packages its vehicles. TNGA retains all of Toyota’s traditional values of superlative build quality and safety while injecting a fun driving experience that plays on all the senses. The physical manifestation is the usage of a new engine, transmission and GA-K platform.
“The all-new 2018 Camry is, without a doubt, the most captivating mid-size sedan we’ve ever produced,” said Bob Carter, Toyota senior vice president of automotive operations. “It delivers on everything Camry owners have come to expect from America’s best-selling car, and adds to it, jaw-dropping design, more advanced technology, cutting-edge safety systems, and stirring performance that raises it to an unparalleled level of excitement.”
“In order to create something that stirs people’s soul, we’ve laid out the concept of a new sedan that provides fun and excitement behind the wheel,” said Masato Katsumata, the Chief Engineer of the new Camry. “In developing the next-generation Toyota Camry, we were able to start with a clean slate, which allowed us to create a true driver’s car.”
Design Backstory
The Camry development team aimed for a styling design concept that achieves strong harmony between refinement and a sensual athletic image, creating a new approach to the market. The result is a new signature design language that takes the car into a beautiful and futuristic new direction.
There were three primary design goals when penning the all-new Camry: a distinctive, low center of gravity that results in a firm wide stance; a practical-yet-emotionally styled cabin profile, and a sporty and upscale image both inside and out. These design goals have resulted in a new type of sedan that’s both exciting to look at and, more importantly drive, reestablishing itself as the new standard in the midsize-sedan category.
An Exterior with Unexpected Attitude
The new Camry’s face is accentuated by a two-piece grille comprised of flowing thin and thick treatments – key elements of the Camry’s “Keen Look” design philosophy. The curvaceous 1.6-inch-lower hood sits neatly above the grille’s uppermost section which accommodates a commanding Toyota emblem. For the hybrid model, the emblem is tinged a distinct blue hue. This fashionable trifecta of grille, hood, and emblem blends flawlessly into the A-pillar, and produces a stance that is undoubtedly more aggressive than that of any predecessor.
The 2018 Camry has a sleeker profile than the current model. By lowering the hip points of the occupants (nearly 1.0-inch in the front and 1.2-inches at the rear), and therefore their seating positions, the design team was able to reduce the car’s overall vehicle height by approximately one inch from the current model and incorporate a lower roofline, without sacrificing interior space. This invited the designers to pursue a wind-cutting shape and improve aerodynamics. Striking character lines around and along the body augment the aggressive front and rear fenders, giving the reimagined Camry a sportiness that’s never before been perceived on this model.
The lower hip point, shoulder line, roof line and hood height gives the new Camry the appearance that it has a low center of gravity, which it does. The design team knew the TNGA platform provided them with a great opportunity to pen a very expressive sedan, and they took advantage of this by getting the lines close to the ground and forming an energetic silhouette. They incorporated a strong stance that can be seen as you walk around the car.
Like the front of the vehicle, the rear features an athletic motif that melds flowing lines and complex shapes to form a sculpted landscape. Looking closely at the C-pillar’s detail reveals a multitude of surfaces that reflect light from all angles. A distinct crease extends from the slim multicolor taillights down to the bumper, effectively “pushing” the wheels outward in appearance to create a wide posture akin to that of a premium sports sedan. The exclamation point here is provided by a newly designed Camry logo that gives the car an upscale identity.
Camry will again be available in four grades: LE, XLE, SE and XSE. The new Camry’s “Sport” SE and XSE grades wear a noticeably different body style than the entry level LE and premium XLE grades, highlighted by a sculpted rocker panel, new 19-inch black machined-finish alloy wheels (XSE only) a subtle rear spoiler lip, aggressive front bumper, and rear bumper with an integrated lower diffuser. The face is much more distinctive with large side intakes flanking the lower bumper’s unique “Catamaran” accents, a high and slim upper intake encompassing the
central Toyota badge, and a powerfully expressive mesh grille. A revised rear bumper with distinctive corner lines and smoke-tinted rear combination lamps highlight the changes at the rear.
The Camry design team sought to make the new Camry sport models instantly recognizable and appear different from the other models from as far as 200 yards away.
Striking and Comfortable Cabin
The completely redesigned interior is a fusion of functionality, futuristic styling, and a high degree of personal space and craftsmanship. While the driver is situated in a sporty cockpit-type environment having gauges angled toward his or her direction, the front passenger is treated to a sense of openness and freedom that results from the innovative dashboard design. A key visual element of this driver-focused design concept is a sweeping yet elegant new character line that flows down from the instrument cluster and bisects the center console waterfall. The design of the entire front console strikes a smooth connection between the ease of use of all controls/systems and a handsome and modern sculptural look that is pleasing to the eye. All surfaces throughout the cabin—dashboard, instrument panel, center console, door trim, etc.—employ the highest grade of soft touch and premium materials. Using an approach typically used in home furnishings, the design utilizes a mix of tones and hues throughout a space rather than a strict color profile. The result is a cabin space having diverse colors and materials, and that enhances passenger comfort and visual satisfaction.
The front seats have been completely reengineered with improved ergonomics, providing maximum comfort with a newfound level of ease and engagement to match the new Camry’s elevated performance and athleticism. Rear-seat accommodations are more refined than ever with improved roominess and ergonomics. Exquisite stitching on the front- and rear-seat surfaces is but one example of the high level of craftsmanship found throughout the vehicle.
High Interaction, Minimal Distraction
The new Camry features Toyota’s latest Human Machine Interface (HMI) whose next-generation display technology offers a unique level of integrated information with minimal distraction. It relays information through three interlinked displays: available interlinked displays: a 10-inch color Head-Up Display (HUD); a seven-inch multi-information display within the instrument cluster, and an eight-inch audio/navigation display and HVAC (heating, ventilation and air conditioning) control panel that’s seamlessly integrated into the center console in a modern, flush-surface design. Convenient and highly intuitive operation is assured through customizable features and smart phone-like touch screen icons that create a seamless connection and user workflow between the HMI system and other digital media.
Full Utilization of Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA)
The 2018 Toyota Camry fully incorporates the Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA). At its foundation, TNGA is a structural reform movement for the entire company that will result in cars that are more dynamic, athletic, and fun to drive.
By extending the wheelbase by two inches, as well as bringing down the roof and hood height (by approximately 1.0 and 1.6-inches, respectively), the development team lowered the center of gravity and created a wider and more composed vehicle. The new platform also allows for an ideal seating position for the driver, now lower and near the center of the car for enhanced feedback, along with adjusting the overall seating position for all the vehicle’s occupants. A lower heel point provides more foot room and ease of movement. The range of steering column adjustment has been increased from the current vehicle, while the hood, cowl, and dashboard height have all been lowered for enhanced outward visibility.
The driver and front passenger will experience an unprecedented sense of outward visibility, thanks to a more compact design for the instrument panel and a lowered beltline. The reimagined position of the A-pillar and side mirror sections results in enhanced lateral visibility and creates a noticeable sense of openness when the driver sits behind the wheel.
All Gain With No MPG Pain
Three new powertrains will be available on the new 2018 Camry: They include a new 3.5-liter V6 with D-4S Fuel Injection and an all-new 2.5-liter inline-4 gasoline engine, which comes paired to a new 8-speed Direct-Shift automatic transmission (8AT), and a next-generation Toyota Hybrid System (THS II).
To match the chassis’ increased handling and performance capability, Toyota engineers have developed the TNGA-inspired all-new 2.5-liter 4-cylinder Dynamic Force Engine to make the most of the platform’s enhanced designs, packaging and rigidity. This new generation engine focuses on higher torque, higher power and lower fuel consumption in total use range. This is accomplished by achieving rapid combustion due to higher tumble air flow. With its long-stroke and high compression ratio, multi-hole direct fuel injectors, variable cooling system and the latest version of Toyota’s Variable Valve-Timing-intelligent Electric (VVT-iE), this high-output powerplant takes the gasoline-powered internal combustion engine to a new level with world-leading thermal efficiency of 40 percent. Along with enhanced performance characteristics, the new engine is also expected to be extremely fuel efficient, and is anticipated to achieve best-in-class fuel economy. It comes mated to the newly developed Direct Shift-8AT transmission that provides direct-lock up from gears two through eight to eliminate power loss from the torque converter, executing shifts like a high-performance automated manual gearbox.
The new hybrid system has also been engineered to provide the ideal balance of energy efficiency with superior power output to maximize driving performance and enjoyment. The next-generation Toyota Hybrid System has been engineered to work in concert with the new 2.5-liter 4-cylinder Dynamic Force Engine setup offering significantly more driving excitement than before. The hybrid’s Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) features a new Sport Mode setting that allows the driver to execute smooth yet quick “gear” shifts of the simulated 6-speed sequential shift transmission. The SE grade adds paddle shifters for increased fun and a more sporting driving experience. The Sport Mode setting also improves acceleration and feel thanks to an electric power boost from the hybrid system. Furthermore, to help enhance the vehicle’s handling capability, the hybrid system’s battery pack has moved from the trunk to beneath the rear seat for a noticeably enriched handling feel, thanks to the vehicle’s much improved lower center of gravity—yet another benefit of the TNGA platform.
In addition to its enhanced handling and driving performance, the hybrid version of the new Camry is anticipated to achieve best-in-class fuel economy ratings, with Prius-like city/highway driving efficiency.
A New Experience Focused on Vastly Superior Driving Dynamics
At the foundation of the Camry’s sporty handling and enhanced ride quality is its high-strength body/platform structure. Through the increased use of ultra-high-tensile steel and the application of a new molding technology it delivers enhanced structural rigidity.
Further aiding performance is an innovative new double wishbone rear suspension system that imbues the chassis with responsive handling and precise steering control while simultaneously delivering ride quality on par with premium luxury vehicles. A new four-point engine mounting system adds to the vehicle’s civil road manners as it greatly reduces unwanted noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) from permeating into the passenger compartment.
The biggest challenge for the Camry engineering team was to figure out how to convey the driving dynamics of a soul-stirring sedan. Driving dynamics were always at the forefront of the engineering philosophy for the new Camry. They wanted a new Camry in which the driver will be highly impressed with the handling capability and composure of the new design. So much so, that drivers will notice the dramatic improvements within the first few seconds of driving.
Toyota Safety That Makes Sense
Among the many safety features on the 2018 Camry is standard Toyota Safety Sense™ P (TSS-P). This multi-feature advanced active safety suite bundles cutting edge active safety technologies including Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection (PCS w/PD), Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (DRCC), Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist (LDA w/SA); and Automatic High Beams (AHB). Select models will also come with standard Blind Spot Monitor (BSM) with Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA).
All 2018 Camry’s have 10 standard airbags and Toyota’s Star Safety System™, which includes Enhanced Vehicle Stability Control, Traction Control, Electronic Brake-force Distribution, Brake Assist, Anti-lock Braking System, and Smart Stop Technology®. All Camry’s also come equipped with a standard backup camera.
Ever Better Entune™ 3.0 Multimedia For Everyone
Camry drivers will be the first to enjoy enhanced connectivity and entertainment through the new Toyota Entune™ 3.0 multimedia system. The new 2018 Camry will feature Entune 3.0 on all models, offering an enhanced set of connected vehicle technologies.
The Entune 3.0 system will feature navigation and App Suite Connect for everyone. All Camry four-cylinder and hybrid models will come standard with the Connected Navigation Scout GPS Link with Moving Maps. Camry V6 models will offer the new Dynamic Navigation system, providing improved map accuracy. The wireless map updates provide over-the-air map downloads of recently added roads and point-of-interest not contained in the existing head unit map.
Entune 3.0 delivers several new technologies including available Remote Connect, which provides remote start and door unlock capability, vehicle status notifications, a guest driver monitor, and vehicle finder. Keeping up with your vehicle’s health status has never been easier. Available Service Connect will provide up-to-date vehicle information on fuel level, maintenance alerts, and more. Entune 3.0 will also offer available WiFi Connect, allowing up to five mobile devices to connect using 4G LTE.
The new 2018 Camry will also offer a JBL premium audio system that features new advancements in sound quality. Sound enhancements include Sound Staging, which positions speakers directly in front of the listener to help emulate a live concert venue; Low Frequency Sounds, made possible by an added 10.1-inch subwoofer; Clari-Fi, a technology that “un-compresses” music to help restore an audio track’s dynamic range; and nine speakers that are specifically tuned to the Camry’s cabin dimensions and materials.
Camry - Everybody’s All-American
For nearly three decades, Camry’s American manufacturing home has been Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Kentucky (TMMK) in Georgetown, Ky. Most Camrys sold in America are assembled in Georgetown by more than 7,700 proud American team members. This pride has been reflected by the fact Camry is the best-selling car in America and has held this sales crown for 15 consecutive years! Overall Camry sales in the U.S. since it first launched back in 1983 have surpassed 10 million units, and counting.
With Camry as a cornerstone of its US operations, Toyota has been part of the cultural fabric of America for nearly 60 years. With over $22 billion in direct U.S. investment, including 10
manufacturing facilities, 1,500 dealerships and 136,000 dedicated employees, Toyota has produced 25 million vehicles in the U.S. over the last 30 years.
History of Camry
Sold in more than 100 countries, the Toyota Camry is the most popular mid-size sedan in the world and is the segment leader in many global markets where it is available. Introduced in Japan in 1982, the Camry was Toyota’s first mass-produced vehicle with a transverse engine layout. Its welcomed combination of affordability with superior packaging, quality and engineering was a revolutionary concept, allowing the Camry to distinguish itself from other, notably larger American sedans that were popular at the time. One could say it was a pioneer in establishing the
Midsize-sedan segment. In the following years, the Camry became a sales success everywhere it was sold. Today, Camry remains a key model in the Toyota lineup and is manufactured in 10 different plants around the globe, with total sales surpassing 18 million units.
The all-new 2018 Toyota Camry will begin rolling into Toyota dealers in late summer 2017
ALL-NEW 2018 CAMRY PRELIMINARY SPECIFICATIONS
Advanced Powertrains
- All-new 2.5-liter four-cylinder Dynamic Force Engine paired with a new Direct Shift-8AT
- 3.5-liter V6 with D-4S Fuel Injection
- Next-generation Toyota Hybrid System (THS II) with Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT)
- Simulated six-speed sequential shift transmission on all Hybrid grades (paddle shifters on Hybrid SE grade only)
Safety and Convenience
- Standard Toyota Safety Sense package includes Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection (PCS w/PD), Full-speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control System (DRCC), Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist (LDA w/SA), Automatic High Beam (AHB)
- Available Blind Spot Monitor (BSM) with Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA) and Intelligent Clearance Sonar (ICS) with Rear Cross Traffic Braking (RCTB),
- Available Bird’s Eye View Camera with Perimeter Scan
- Enhanced body structure/platform through a new high-strength body that offers increased occupant protection in the event of a side or front collision/impact in offset or head-on collisions
PRELIMINARY VEHICLE DIMENSIONS (inches) | |
LENGTH | 191.3 |
WHEELBASE | 111.2 |
HEIGHT | 56.7 |
WIDTH | 72.4 |
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