Supporting Local Businesses in the Wake of Covid-19

As many counties in Washington State enter phase 2 of reopening during the Covid-19 (some hoping for phase 3, even), we are excited by the idea of life returning to normal by frequenting our favorite restaurants, parks, and beaches mostly the way we used to. We recognize that some things will be different and it is important to take precautionary measures. We also recognize that local businesses have been through a historic hit, so here are some ideas to help us all recover from the Covid-19 lockdown.

• Buy gift cards from local stores and restaurants as birthday gifts, to give to first responders, etc. This helps get cash flowing to these businesses more than you can visit each one.
• If you need to get out of the house, try a staycation! Airbnbs will soon be open as will most local attractions, events and activities. This will get you out and put money back into the community.
• Shop local. We understand this isn’t always possible, but instead of the convenience of making that purchase through Amazon or a big box store, your purchases will make a huge impact on smaller, locally-owned businesses.

2021 Toyota GR Supra Hits the Streets with More Power, A91 Edition and First-Ever Four-Cylinder Turbo Model

• GR Supra 3.0 Gets Power Boost and Revised Chassis Tuning
• New GR Supra 2.0 is First-Ever Four-Cylinder Version, with 255 Horsepower and Lower Weight
• New GR Supra A91 Edition with Exclusive Color and Design Features
• 8-in. Central Display Screen Now Standard on All Models
• GR Supra 2.0 starts at $42,990, while 3.0 starts at $50,990

One year after its debut, Toyota is raising the bar for the 2021 GR Supra with six-cylinder models that leap ahead with a power boost and retuned chassis, while the first ever four-cylinder turbo model joins the line.

The first 1,500 Mk. V Supras were Launch Editions, and for 2021 Toyota is offering 1,000 new A91 Editions. This special edition Supra will have the 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine and will be available in a choice of two colors, Nocturnal or Refraction, the latter exclusive to the A91 Edition and an all-new color for Supra. Accenting the Supra’s concept car-inspired body are a rear black carbon fiber lip spoiler, matte black wheels, C-pillar graphics and carbon fiber mirror caps. The black Alcantara® leather-trimmed interior with blue contrast is likewise exclusive to this limited-availability model, and each A91 Edition will come with two exclusive key gloves and trunk mat.

On the 2021 Supra 3.0 Premium and A91 Edition, the front Brembo® brake calipers are painted red and feature the “TOYOTA Supra” logo. All Supra models for 2021 will feature the 8.8-inch audio touch screen that is standard on the 2020 3.0 Premium model; the base model’s 6.5-inch screen has been discontinued.

The 2021 GR Supra models are anticipated to start arriving at Toyota dealers this summer. Here’s what to brace for: 

More Power. Because, Why Not?

The 2020 Toyota GR Supra brought the revered model back in a blaze of speed, with acceleration and handling performance that outshone even its illustrious A80 predecessor. For 2021, Toyota is keeping the pedal down, boosting output of the Supra’s turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six from 335 hp at 5,000-6,500 rpm to 382 hp at 5,800-6,500 rpm, a 14-percent increase. Torque rises from 365 lb.-ft. at 1,600-4,500 rpm to 368 lb.-ft. at 1,800-5,000 rpm.

The increased output results from a slew of upgrades throughout the engine. The new dual-branch exhaust manifold, with six ports instead of two, improves airflow and heat management. A new piston design reduces the engine’s compression ratio from 11:1 to 10.2:1 in order to prevent abnormal combustion due to high boost.

The greatly revised engine produces higher torque at higher rpm and retains the eagerness to rev with turbine-like smoothness. Toyota projects that the new engine will reduce the Supra 3.0 model’s 0-60 acceleration time to 3.9 seconds, down from 4.1. The 8-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters carries over for 2021. Even with the power boost, GR Supra 3.0 grades will achieve an estimated 25 mpg combined (22 city/30 highway/25 combined).

Retuned Chassis for Supra 3.0

The 2020 GR Supra won praise for its ride/handling balance, but even the exceptional can be improved. Seeking increased roll resistance and enhanced cornering stability, Toyota retuned the Supra 3.0 chassis, adding lightweight aluminum braces that tie the strut towers to the radiator support to increase lateral rigidity, along with front and rear bump stops and new damper tuning. Revised programming for the electric power steering (EPS), Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS), Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) and Active Differential works in concert with the hardware changes to make the 2021 Supra more stable through quick transitions, such as compound turns.

The First Four-Cylinder Supra Is Quick and Light

The 2020 GR Supra broke from the model’s traditions in several areas, and the 2021 version seems to do it again with the first-ever four-cylinder turbo model. Or does it? The new Supra 2.0 becomes the entry model, returning a two-tier performance lineup that parallels the A70 and A80 Supra models.

The 2021 Supra 2.0 offers an intermediate model between the Toyota 86 and the Supra 3.0, giving the customer three distinct Toyota sports car choices.

The 2.0-liter inline four-cylinder engine shares much of its technology with the 3.0-liter inline-six, including a twin-scroll turbo, direct fuel injection and continuously variable timing on both the intake and exhaust camshafts. The variable intake valve lift system adjusts intake valve timing and duration. The bottom line is 255 hp at 5,000-6,500 rpm and a stout 295 lb.-ft. peak torque at 1,550 to 4,400 rpm.

The Supra 2.0 uses the same 8-speed automatic transmission as the 3.0, and Toyota projects 0-60 mph in 5.0 seconds, which will make it Toyota’s second quickest vehicle in the lineup. The Supra 2.0 has the same electronically limited 155-mph top track speed as the 3.0, and its fuel consumption will be lower.

The Supra Lightweight

The 2021 Supra 2.0 offers much more than a lower price point. At 3,181 pounds, it is more than 200 pounds lighter than the Supra 3.0 while maintaining that model’s exemplary near perfect weight distribution. That’s because the weight reduction is spread throughout the car:

• The Supra 2.0 uses smaller front brake rotors than the Supra 3.0 (330mm x 24mm vs. 348mm x 36mm), and with single-piston calipers vs. four-piston.
• The Supra 2.0 does not have the Active Differential and Adaptive Suspension used on the 3.0 model.
• A four-speaker audio system is standard, vs. the Supra 3.0’s 10-speaker system.

Supra 2.0 seats are manually adjustable, vs. 14-way power-adjustable in the 3.0.

Performance, Well-Priced

The 2021 GR Supra’s inline six-cylinder gets a major power boost, but with a minor price increase. The 3.0 Premium grade has an MSRP increase of just $500, with a starting price of $54,490. The 3.0 grade starts at $50,990, up just $1,000 from MY20. The A91 Edition has an MSRP starting price of $55,990, which is $740 more than the Launch Editions offered for model year 2020.

The GR Supra 2.0 grades will have an MSRP starting price of $42,990.

The Safety & Technology Package is new for MY21 and will be available on the 2.0 and 3.0 grades. It will cost $3,485 on the 2.0 and $3,155 on the 3.0 and include:

• Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (Full speed)
• Blind Spot Monitor (BSM)
• Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA)
• Parking Sensors with Emergency Braking Function
• Navigation
• 12-speaker 500-watt JBL Audio System
• Wireless Apple CarPlay® compatible (iOS only)
• Supra Connected Services: up to four-year trial includes Remote Services, Remote Maintenance, Automatic Emergency Call, Real Time Traffic Information, Concierge, Stolen Vehicle Recovery, and Map Updates.

The Driver’s Assist Package will still be an available option on the 3.0 Premium and A91 Edition. That package costs $1,195 and includes:

• Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (Full speed)
• Blind Spot Monitor (BSM)
• Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA)
• Parking Sensors with Emergency Braking Function

Comparing 2020 and 2021 Supra GR Models

Toyota Financial Services (TFS) Named One of the Most Community-Minded Companies in the Nation

Points of Light Foundation lists TFS as one of its Civic 50 for sixth consecutive year

 

Toyota Financial Services (TFS), a longtime Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) leader, has once again been named one of the most community-minded companies in the nation by Points of Light Foundation. For the sixth consecutive year, TFS has been included on the nonprofit’s Civic 50 list, and recognized for its CSR initiatives and dedication to supporting and empowering communities.

The Civic 50 sets the standard for corporate community engagement nationwide, and creates a roadmap for companies seeking to best use their time, talent, and resources to improve the quality of life in the communities where they do business. Each year, 50 companies are honored as determined by an annual survey. Winners are selected based on four dimensions of their national community engagement programs: Integration, Investment, Impact, and Institutionalization. TFS attained high scores in all four categories, and was ranked the #1 company in the Financial Services sector for the second consecutive year.

As in previous years, TFS was recognized for its unwavering commitment to youth development, successful volunteer programs, and strong national and local partnerships, such as those with Boys & Girls Clubs of America (BGCA) and Girl Scouts of the USA. By providing not only resources, but also time and expertise, the company has helped ensure BGCA kids are on track to go to college and Girl Scouts across the country are becoming more self-reliant and financially informed.

“Toyota Financial Services partners with dedicated nonprofit organizations to provide educational opportunities and tools to underserved youth, as well as resources for communities in need. Our team members are the backbone of those relationships, and it’s so inspiring to see them continue to engage and support their communities during these challenging times,” said Mark Templin, President & CEO of Toyota Financial Services. “We are incredibly honored that Points of Light Foundation recognizes our ongoing efforts, and has again named us one of its Civic 50. Toyota Financial Services remains committed to being a good corporate citizen and continuing to respond to national and community needs.”

Much of TFS’ philanthropic success is attributed to its highly-engaged team members. The company supports and develops its team members with community involvement programs such as the Community Ambassador program, which empowers them to build strategic partnerships with local nonprofits and participate in community activities. The program provides a robust training and support network, giving team members an opportunity to develop key workplace skills, including relationship-building, project management, and communication. TFS also offers paid-time volunteering to all its team members, and includes employee community involvement participation targets on the corporate scorecard. This past year, 63% of the company’s team members volunteered in their communities, leveraging their talent and energy to make a difference.

For more information on The Civic 50 and the latest trends on community engagement, view the report at www.civic50.org.

Toyota Offers Free Access to THUMS Virtual Human Body Model Software

Greater use of THUMS for analysis of vehicle collision-related injuries to enhance vehicle safety

Toyota Motor Corporation (Toyota) announced today that it will make its Total Human Model for Safety (THUMS) software freely available from January 2021 as part of its efforts toward a safe mobility society. THUMS is a virtual human body model software program for computer analysis of human body injuries caused in vehicle collisions. Free access to THUMS, and subsequent use by a wider variety of users, is expected to enhance vehicle safety.

Designed to aid vehicle safety technologies’ research and development, and developed in cooperation with Toyota Central R&D Labs., Inc., THUMS was the world’s first virtual human body model software when it launched in 2000. It enabled simulation and analysis of injuries caused in vehicle collisions. Since then, and up until the latest Version 6 was released last year, it has continually evolved to add a range of models with different genders, ages and physiques that include skeletal structures, brains, internal organs, and muscles. Compared to the physical crash dummies commonly used in vehicle collision tests, THUMS is able to analyze collision-related injuries in more detail, because it precisely models the shapes and durability of human bodies. Conducting simulations on computers also enables repeated analysis of a range of different collision patterns, while it can dramatically reduce development lead times and costs associated with collision testing.

Evolution of THUMS

THUMS is currently used in vehicle safety research by over 100 vehicle manufacturers, suppliers, universities, research institutions and others, in Japan and overseas. It is being used to research and develop many different safety technologies, such as seatbelts, airbags, and vehicle structures that help reduce injury risks in vehicle collisions with pedestrians. Vehicle safety assessment organizations are also currently considering the use of THUMS for virtual testing in their future assessment plans.

Making THUMS freely available is expected not only to enable a greater number of people to use it in their vehicle safety research, but to also improve the usability of the software, as users make improvements to the model themselves and share the results with others.

Seigo Kuzumaki, Fellow at Advanced R&D and Engineering Company, offered the following comment about free access to THUMS:

“Since the very first launch of THUMS in 2000, we’ve been making ongoing improvements and avidly working to better reproduce the human anatomy and expand the variations of models. It has now become indispensable technology to Toyota’s efforts in developing safety technologies and vehicles. We decided to make the software freely available to have more people use it, to further enhance vehicle safety across the entire automotive industry, and to help reduce traffic injuries and fatalities to create a safer society. We look forward to seeing it applied broadly in development sites and others, envisioning a mobility society with automated vehicles and other technologies, moving forward.”

Software license sales through JSOL Corporation (Tokyo) and ESI Group (Paris) will come to an end during 2020, with the start of free access to THUMS.

THUMS Version 4: Models

Models include detailed human anatomy (skeletal structures, brains, internal organs, etc.) in a range of genders, ages, physiques, and postures.

Note: Versions 4, 5, and 6 will be made available for free.

History of THUMS

Why Sandra Phillips Rogers Sees Diversity and Inclusion As the Key to Innovation

Toyota Motor North America Chief Diversity Officer Sandra Phillips Rogers on Diversity and Inclusion

Embracing and committing to engaged, diverse and inclusive environments for all is woven into Toyota’s DNA. Striving to be leaders in Diversity and Inclusion (D+I) and fostering a world-class D+​I culture challenges what’s possible by recognizing D+​I as an essential component of every team member experience. Diversity makes the workplace, marketplace, society and the world a better place through equality, respect and inclusive treatment of all people.

Leading the charge is Sandra Phillips Rogers, Toyota Motor North America’s chief diversity officer. Phillips Rogers joined the company in 2012 as assistant general counsel and vice president, before being promoted to general counsel and group vice president in 2015.

In her role as chief diversity officer, Phillips Rogers leads Toyota’s long-standing efforts to advance diversity and inclusion through an integrated holistic strategy that addresses the workplace, the marketplace and society. She also focuses on inclusive mobility, community sustainability and workforce readiness.

Here, Phillips Rogers offers her take on the importance of diversity and inclusion in the workplace and its role in fostering a culture of innovation at TMNA.

Engage and Empower

I believe diversity and inclusion is a core asset of our company, a business imperative. It’s the glue that holds team member engagement and community involvement together. We’re also finding that as millennials and Generation Z enter the workforce, they’re looking for a place that’s going to enable them to be innovative. When you have diverse people around the table who feel included and empowered, they’re going to give you their best. That’s how you unlock innovation.

This is also represented by what we’re doing to motivate, encourage, develop and promote women. Our Women in Leadership Program is second to none. I’ve seen women come through that program who are forever changed. They’ve got a new perspective on who they are, what they can be and how they can contribute. We host a yearly North America Women’s Conference, which has paved the way for additional programs, executive development opportunities, and Reach, a group that focuses on professional development for African American women.

“When you have diverse people around the table who feel included and empowered, they’re going to give you their best. That’s how you unlock innovation.”

There’s Diversity in Numbers

One of our real success stories is our business partnering groups (BPGs), employee-driven networks based on shared characteristics and/or life experiences. They help with key initiatives for Toyota around workforce inclusion, workplace engagement, & marketplace connections. We have 13 BPG affinities, and over 95 chapters in Canada, Mexico and the US., which include the African American Collaborative, ToyotAbility (promoting mobility awareness and understanding) and Toyota Veterans Association. I think that gives us the grassroots involvement we need to engage our team members in diversity and inclusion.

These efforts have played a substantial role in helping us reach number 18 on DiversityInc’s Top 50 Companies for Diversity ranking. The ranking’s not the only way we measure ourselves, but it does give an indication of what we stand for. Most people know the Toyota Way: respect for people and continuous improvement. But, make no mistake; for me, what’s most important is that we continue to live our values for our customers, our team members, our business partners and our communities each and every day.

Toyota Statement on Social Injustice

At Toyota, we are committed to making the workplace, marketplace, society and the world a better place for all. We all have recently experienced heartbreaking, disturbing and challenging events that are having a devastating impact on multiple levels and communities nationwide.

We all have witnessed unacceptable bigotry and a lack of education around the COVID-19 virus to more recent societal issues of violence, killings and racism against African Americans in Minnesota, Kentucky, Georgia and elsewhere. These events may be difficult for many of us to process and our thoughts are with all those directly affected and their families and friends.  

During this turbulent time our country is facing, we are committed to focusing on how we act as a company. Respect for People is and will remain, our North Star. We stand behind our commitment to diversity and inclusion, and we remain steadfast in our belief for equality, respect and inclusivity for all people. So now more than ever, we will encourage a constructive dialog to guide our actions as we continue to improve how we contribute to society, and inspire unity in every aspect of our lives, our business and our communities. Toyota will find additional ways of doing this by working together with our community partners across North America. Our message to those who are hurting is:  We see you. We hear you. And, we stand with you and for you.

2021 Toyota Corolla Hatchback Special Edition Makes Red the New Color of Envy

• Custom body kit and Supersonic Red paint create a knockout look
• 1,500 Special Editions available for model year 2021
• All 2021 Corolla models add new safety features
• Enhanced Cargo Space option, available for no extra cost

Toyota has something special in store for sport hatchback fans who like their cars with expressive styling and bold colors. Dressed out with an exclusive body kit and striking Supersonic Red paint, the 2021 Corolla Hatchback Special Edition looks like it just rolled out of a Southern California custom shop. And, because enthusiasts who buy factory customs don’t like to see themselves coming and going on the road, Toyota will offer just 1,500 of these red-hot hatches for the 2021 model year.

The Special Edition, which arrives in late summer, makes a powerful style statement while adding the safety and convenience upgrades common to the rest of the 2021 Corolla Hatchback line. All 2021 Corolla Hatchback models add rear seat mounted side airbags, bringing the car’s total airbag count to 10. In addition, the 2021 Corolla Hatchback makes Rear Cross Traffic Alert with Blind Spot Monitor standard on the XSE grade and optional for the SE grade with the SE Preferred package.

As on the 2020 versions, all 2021 Corolla Hatchback models come standard with the Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 suite of driver-assist technologies:

• Pre-Collision System with Daytime/Low-Light Vehicle and Pedestrian Detection, plus Daytime Bicyclist Detection
• Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (CVT only)
• Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist
• Automatic High Beams
• Lane Tracing Assist (CVT only)
• Road Sign Assist

Hatchbacks are about versatility, of course, and the 2021 Corolla Hatchback offers more of it with the Enhanced Cargo Space option, available at no extra cost for all models excluding SE Nightshade. The new feature lowers the cargo floor, adding 6 cu. ft. of total capacity (to 23 cu. ft.) behind the rear seats. This option replaces the spare tire with a tire repair kit.

A bold design deserves bold, expressive colors, and the 2021 Corolla Hatchback adds two new ones: Magnetic Gray Metallic and Wind Chill Pearl. Both are available with the Black Roof option, as well. The rest of the color roster for 2021 includes Classic Silver Metallic, Midnight Black Metallic, Galactic Aqua Mica and Blue Flame.

2021 Corolla Hatchback Special Edition Really is Special

For the 2021 model year, Toyota puts the spotlight on fun in the Corolla family, with special models in both hatchback and sedan body styles. On the hatchback side, the new Special Edition, based on the SE CVT grade, grabs attention with its Supersonic Red paint job, black-painted 18-in. alloy wheels and a bold body kit that beats the aftermarket in style and value. The body kit adds a sporty front splitter, side skirts, black rear roof spoiler, a rear bumper garnish and a unique Special Edition badge.

The aggressive body kit styling is well matched to the Corolla Hatchback’s design, which is anchored by a curvy, muscular physique accented by chiseled character lines and simple, condensed three-dimensional highlights. The Special Edition pushes the style meter to 11 and is not for people who want to blend into the crowd.

Slim, J-shaped Bi-Beam LED headlamps wrap deeply into the front fenders and give Corolla Hatchback a distinct expression. It’s functional, of course, with precise illumination. The all-LED taillamps feature a diffusing inner lens designed to highlight the Corolla Hatchback’s stout stance.

The 2021 Hatchback Special Edition foreshadows even more excitement still to come in the hatchback segment …

The Nightshade Returns

The Special Edition isn’t the only style-enhanced Corolla Hatchback for 2021. The SE Nightshade Edition returns, adding blackout trim and blacked-out 18-inch alloy wheels to the customer’s choice of Classic Silver Metallic, Midnight Black Metallic or Super White exterior color. The blackout look covers the lower rocker panels, front valance, door handles, mirror caps, shark fin antenna, rear roof spoiler and headlight inner frames. The SE Nightshade Edition comes with the CVT as standard.

High-Rev Personality

Like all Corolla Hatchbacks, the Special Edition combines the athleticism of the robust TNGA-C platform, responsive multi-link rear suspension, and the 168-horsepower 2.0-liter Dynamic Force Engine. Combining high-revving energy with high efficiency, the 2.0-liter derives its gutsy personality and fuel-sipping behavior from a combination of a high compression ratio (13:1); Toyota D4-S fuel injection combining direct injection and secondary port injectors; high-speed combustion; VVT-iE intelligent variable valve-timing on the intake side, and VVT-i on the exhaust. VVT-iE uses an electric motor instead of oil pressure to control the variable valve timing.

A two-discharge port oil pump and a variable cooling system with electric water pump help maximize engine performance and efficiency. The more efficient cooling system also ensures quicker cabin heating on cold days and quicker cool-down when the air conditioner is used. All of these technologies, along with ultra-low internal friction, give the Dynamic Force 2.0-liter engine a maximum thermal efficiency of 40 percent.

The Dynamic Shift CVT (continuously variable transmission) that is standard on the SE Special Edition includes simulated 10-speed Sequential Shiftmatic steps, Sport Mode, and paddle shifters. Unique among transmissions of this type, the key to the Dynamic Shift CVT’s distinct performance feel is a gearset used as a launch gear for start-off acceleration, before seamlessly handing off to the CVT’s pulley system.

And the Beat Drops

The standard multimedia continues to impress in Corolla Hatchback. For SE, including the Special Edition, standard Toyota Audio includes the 8-in. touchscreen; six speakers; Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and Amazon Alexa compatibility; Safety Connect trial; Wi-Fi Connect; Siri Eyes Free; Auxiliary audio jack and USB 2.0 port with iPod connectivity and control; AM/FM; MP3/WMA playback capability; SiriusXM All Access satellite radio with three-month trial; hands-free phone capability; voice recognition and music streaming via Bluetooth.

Toyota Audio Plus, standard on XSE and optional on SE (with CVT), adds HD Radio and Weather/Traffic info; Connected Services; Service Connect and Remote Connect trials.

Topping the range, available Premium Audio for the XSE grade (with CVT) delivers a sonic knockout punch. The JBL 8-speaker, 800-watt system includes Clari-FiTM which analyzes and restores audio signals that were degraded by digital compression, making these formats sound more “open.” This system also includes JBL Dynamic Voice Recognition, Dynamic Navigation trial, Dynamic POI Search and Destination Assist Connect trial.

Highlights of the 8-speaker array include free-standing horn tweeters in the A-pillars, 6.7-in. door subwoofers and sealed inner door panels to promote cleaner, more powerful bass response. Rounding off connectivity are two USB ports (located inside the center console and instrument panel) and one AUX port (located on the instrument panel).

Creature Comforts

The Corolla Hatchback upholds the brand’s penchant for high value. The Corolla Hatchback SE grade comes standard with single-zone automatic climate control, leather-wrapped shift knob and, with the optional CVT, paddle shifters located behind the steering wheel. An electronic parking brake, three-door SmartKey system, automatic up/down windows and two front USB ports are standard as well.

The XSE grade builds on the SE with dual-zone climate control, combination leather-trimmed seating, unique stitching on the instrument panel and doors, heated front seats, and an eight-way power driver’s seat.

Limited Warranty and ToyotaCare

Toyota’s 36-month/36,000 mile basic new-vehicle warranty applies to all components other than normal wear and maintenance items. Additional 60-month warranties cover the powertrain for 60,000 miles and corrosion with no mileage limitation. The Corolla Hatchback also comes standard with ToyotaCare, a no additional cost plan that covers normal factory-scheduled maintenance for two years or 25,000 miles, whichever comes first, and 24-hour roadside assistance for two years, unlimited mileage.