Toyota – Page 16 – Automobiles Review

Toyota Returns to FIA World Rally Championship with Yaris WRC Car [VIDEO]

Toyota is returning to the FIA World Rally Championship (WRC) in 2017 with a Yaris WRC car. It was developed and built by the Toyota Motorsport (TMG) technical centre in Cologne, Germany. Over the next two years the team will make tests of the car, which will prepare it for a full return to the racing series. This announcement was made by company’s President, Akio Toyoda, at a news conference in Tokyo. The Yaris WRC also made its public debut there.

The car is driven by a 1.6-litre turbo-charged, direct-injection engine, which generates over 300 hp (221 kW). In addition, advanced simulation, testing and production techniques have shaped the Yaris chassis.

Furthermore, the development of the car will be expanded and the dedicated team of specialists assigned to engineer and operate the car will be increased. Several young drivers already tested the car. This resulted in the selection of Eric Camilli, 27, who has been chosen to be the first member of a junior driver development scheme.

Camilli will cooperate in this program with Stéphane Sarrazin, 2014 Tour de Corse winner, as well as with Sebastian Lindholm. The experience which will be gained from the test program will help Toyota prepare the car for the 2017 season. This is when updated technical regulations are expected to be introduced.

Toyota Yaris WRC is expected to make a competitive debut in 2017. This is more than 17 years since the company’s last world championship rally. Back in 1999, the company marked the end of over 25 years of continuous rally activity with 43 wins achieved.

Toyota Yaris WRC Technical Specifications:

Chassis:

Type	Steel body shell
Brakes	300mm discs on gravel, 355mm on tarmac
Wheels	Wheels 7 x 15″ gravel, 8 x 18″ tarmac
Tyres	Michelin
Dimensions	Length: 3910mm
	Width: 1820mm

Powertrain:

Engine capacity	1.6 litres
Type	In-line four-cylinder
Direct injection	Up to 200bar
Fuel	Petrol
Turbo pressure	2.5 bar absolute (maximum)
Air restrictor	33mm
Power	Around 300hp (at 6,000rpm)
Torque	420Nm
Max revs	8,500rpm
Transmission	Six-speed sequential
Clutch	ZF Sachs

httpv://youtu.be/QY8A4m0g5aw

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Toyota Motorsport

February 2, 2015

Toyota Racing Confirms Lineup for FIA World Endurance Championship

2015 Toyota TS040 Hybrid is to be driven by two brand new drivers included in the lineup for the FIA World Endurance Championship. They are Anthony Davidson and Mike Conway. With the announcement of their addition to the list, Toyota Racing has finally confirmed the driver line-up for this year. The team will be competing with two TS040 Hybrid cars and has the goal of keeping the drivers’ and manufacturers’ world champion titles.

As a reminder, Toyota was 2014 champion and this means that the cars will be placed at the No1 and No2 plates. And to reach the final goal and stay on the first place, Toyota’s driver line-ups have been fine-tuned.

Precisely, the No1 car will feature Anthony Davidson and Sébastien Buemi, who jointly claimed the 2014 drivers’ title, alongside Kazui Nakajima. The No2 car will be driven by Alex Wurz, Stéphane Sarrazin and Mike Conway. There will also be a future announcement regarding a test and reserve driver in the coming weeks.

In addition, the company confirmed that it has plans to return to the World Rally Championship (WRC) in 2017. The Cologne-based Toyota Racing Team said its World Endurance Championship (WEC) campaign would not be adversely affected by its involvement in the WRC project.

Team president Yoshiaki Kinoshita praised the performances, attitude and commitment of the six drivers and said that they have worked with all our drivers for a long time and have developed very strong relationships. This stability and consistency has been a significant part of the recent success and made it to number one priority in the plans for 2015 and beyond.

Driver Details:

ANTHONY DAVIDSON
Born	18 April 1979, Hemel Hempstead, UK
Le Mans debut	2003
Le Mans starts	7
Le Mans best result	2nd (2013)
WEC starts	17
WEC wins	5
WEC best season	1st (2014)

SÉBASTIEN BUEMI
Born	31 October 1988, Aigle, Switzerland
Le Mans debut	2012
Le Mans starts	3
Le Mans best result	2nd (2013)
WEC starts	17
WEC wins	5
WEC best season	1st (2014)

KAZUKI NAKAJIMA
Born	11 January 1985, Okazaki, Japan
Le Mans debut	2012
Le Mans starts	3
Le Mans best result	4th (2013)
WEC starts	16
WEC wins	2
WEC best season	8th (2014)

ALEX WURZ
Born	15 February 1974, Waidhofen an der Thaya, Austria
Le Mans debut	1996
Le Mans starts	8
Le Mans best result	1st (1996 & 2009)
WEC starts	20
WEC wins	5
WEC best season	3rd (2012)

STÉPHANE SARRAZIN
Born	2 November 1975, Alès, France
Le Mans debut	2001
Le Mans starts	13
Le Mans best result	2nd (2007, 2009 & 2013)
WEC starts	24
WEC wins	2
WEC best season	3rd (2013)

MIKE CONWAY
Born	19 August 1983, Sevenoaks, UK
Le Mans debut	2013
Le Mans starts	1
Le Mans best result	n/a
WEC starts	10
WEC wins	2
WEC best season	7th (2013)

Source: Toyota

February 2, 2015

Toyota Camry Hybrid to be Even More Efficient? See the Prototype!

Toyota announced that it is currently conducting tests on a new technology that could make hybrids and other vehicles with electric powertrains even more efficient. A trial, which will take one year, will be conducted in Japan and will rate the performance of new power semi-conductors that work with silicon carbide (SiC) material. They will be fitted to a Camry hybrid prototype and a hydrogen fuel cell-powered bus.

These conductors can be seen in hybrids and other EVs, and are found in the power control units that govern the motor. They manage the exact use of electricity and send the power from the battery to the motors when the car is being driven. Of course, they also recharge the battery during braking or deceleration.

At the moment, the conductors used account for 20 per cent of a vehicle’s electrical losses. And this is the reason that made Toyota take the decision to increase the efficiency of the complete powertrain. This will happen via the development of high-quality SiC type conductors create less resistance when electricity flows through them.

The tests will be conducted on Camry hybrid prototype and a hydrogen fuel cell-powered bus. Toyota has installed SiC power semiconductors, meaning transistors and diodes, in the PCU’s internal voltage step-up converter and the inverter that controls the motor. It will gather all the needed information, including PCU voltage and current, and driving speeds, patterns, and weather conditions.

Toyota will compare the new data to the previous one, collected from the conductors currently in use, and then will assess the level of efficiency achieved. The Camry road test will take place in Toyota City and will last more than a year. They will begin in early February.

Source: Toyota

January 30, 2015

Toyota Raises Awareness with Red Noses on Its Cars’ Logos

Reaching £1 million for Comic Relief is the new goal set by Toyota as an official partner of Red Nose Day. Along with this, the automaker “clears up the mystery of the “RND Concept.” It turns out it is not a concept vehicle but a way for the automaker to raise awareness for Red Nose Day.

Respectively, the RND Concept is simply a Toyota Auris adorned with a red nose on top of its logo which captures the entertaining spirit of the fund-raising initiative. The aim is to raise as much money as possible in order to help the work of Comic Relief that tries to establish better living conditions in the country and in Africa as well.

Matt Harrison, President and Managing Director Toyota GB, commented that: “Red Nose Day achieves the remarkable feat of making people laugh while at the same time helping make a real difference for those people most in need. Toyota is proud to be a part of its inspirational work as an official partner of this year’s Red Nose Day and across the country we will be pulling out all the stops to raise as much money as we can.”

This remarkable event gathers Toyota’s UK businesses, thus including Toyota GB, Toyota Manufacturing UK, Toyota Financial Services, Toyota Materials Handling, Toyota Logistics and Toyota Centers nationwide, along “with a combined workforce of more than 10,000 people.”

The price is just £5 per nose.

Source: Toyota

January 26, 2015

Toyota Underscores the TRD Pro Lineup with a New Video Clip [VIDEO]

Toyota has unveiled a new promotional clip for their Toyota Racing Development (TRD) Pro lineup. This video provides us with an in-depth overview of the models and their features. The collaborative work between TRD and Toyota engineers made sure that all of the newly-developed and refined components match perfectly the trucks and enhance their off-road capabilities without compromising on quality, reliability and durability.

In the video Ted Moncure, Toyota Motor Sales Design Engineering Manager, explains that: “TRD is a lifestyle. It’s for people who like to go outside, who like to explore, who like to take their vehicles and explore the capability of those vehicles.” And he is not far from the truth. In fact, he is more than just right.

Tundra, Tacoma and Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro Series impress with sooth rides and controlled body movements. Any type of terrains, whether they are too rough and bumpy or less challenging, are overcome without any difficulties. The performance of these off-road divas is of the highest possible quality.

To refresh your memory, 4Runner TRD Pro beefs up its off-road spirit with a mighty 4.0-liter V6 engine which delivers 270 HP (201 kW) and 376 Nm (278 lb-ft) of torque. Toyota Tundra TRD Pro, on the other hand, is powered by a 5.7-liter V8 engine. It is capable of producing 381 HP (284 kW) and 543 Nm (401 lb-ft) of torque. It is mated to a six-speed automatic transmission and a four-wheel drive system.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tymz1iQEVTI

Video Source: Toyota via Youtube

January 24, 2015

2015 Toyota RAV4 is Perfect for Business People

The famous SUV family of Toyota has welcomed another member named RAV4 Business Edition. With such specific name, the target customers of the model is pretty much obvious. Arriving with plenty of absolutely reliable, easy to use and high-quality equipment, the newcomer represents an attractive product for a wider group buyers.

Power will be distributed by a 2.0-liter D-4D diesel engine, fixed to a six-speed manual transmission and front-wheel drive. The average fuel consumption is rated at 4.1 l/100 km (57.6 MPG) with CO2 emissions of 127 g/km.

This limited edition model is featured with the automaker’s most-recently developed touch-screen Touch 2 with Go infotainment system with DAB radio, Bluetooth connectivity and an easy access to on-line information and entertainment services by using Toyota’s customer portal.. Other components include a rear-view camera and online compatibility. The 2015 Toyota RAV4 Business Edition benefits from 17-inch alloy wheels, Led daytime running lights, an audio system with four speakers and a dual-zone climate control. Other extras are represented by automatic headlights and wipers, cruise control and an extra chrome trim on the front bumper which adds a pinch of distinctive style.

New RAV4 owners can enjoy leather front seats (Active, Business Edition and Invincible) and Toyota Touch 2 with Go Plus. The latter brings additional functionality, voice command recognition and thee years of free map updates. The color choices include a new Deep Titanium metallic. With such goodies driving to the office becomes more pleasant than ever before!

The starting price is that of 23,995 GBP (31,430 EUR).

Source: Toyota

January 21, 2015

Toyota Aygo X-Wave Open Top for Ultimate Driving Fun

Are you looking for something that will make driving your Toyota Aygo even more fun than it is now? Well, you better stop searching. Toyota is introducing a new retractable x-wave canvas roof for a classic open-top enjoyment.

Launching the x-wave as an additional option on the five-door Toyota Aygo x-pression model, the automaker really knows how to prepare its customers for the upcoming warmer days. The new factory-fitted roof is electrically operated, pressing on a switch next to the map light control in the headlining. It comes in black finish and is full length which makes sure that those who travel in the rear seats can also enjoy the same “wind-in-the-hair experience.”

With the new addition, the Aygo x-pression receives more appealing and attractive look. The compact cart also benefits from 15-inch alloy wheels, front fog lamps, projector headlights with LED daytime running lights, x-touch multimedia system with DAB and Bluetooth, as well as reversing camera and air conditioning.

What is more, the small automobile makes a not-so-small statement thanks to the gloss black accents in the bodywork and the cabin. Those elements are completed by the choice of White Flash, Electro Grey, Silver Splash, Red Pop and Deep Blue Buzz paint colors.

The x-wave roof is priced at £895 (including VAT). It can be ordered along with the x-tra convenience pack, as well as all other features available for x-pression, apart from the roof decals.

Source: Toyota

January 15, 2015

Fear the 2016 Toyota Tacoma for it is here! [VIDEO]

The rival of Nissan Titan is here and it is called 2016 Toyota Tacoma! Of course, many will be on the opinion that both vehicles can’t be compared, but it is fact that they are in the same segment. Let’s see what makes the Tacoma so unique. First of all, it has been entirely rebuilt – inside and out. It features new engine, transmission and suspension and can handle any terrain. In fact, this is North America’s best-selling mid-size pickup for ten years, with over seven million units sold since 1964. The new generation Tacoma has been built from the ground up. It features new frame with added high strength steel to improve rigidity and overall strength. In addition, the suspension was fine-tuned and now deliver smoother on-road ride but it is still capable of exceptional off-road management.

Speaking of the motor, the new pickup is driven either by the 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine and or the brand new 3.5-liter Atkinson cycle V6 unit. Both are coupled with a new six-speed automatic transmission with electronic shift delivering quick and easy shifting. There is also the option for a new six-speed manual transmission.

The aggressive appearance of the Tacoma is further strengthened by the wide wheels, ranging from 16 to 18 inches. The front end features bold upper grille and a taller, more muscular hood. Mounted high above the clamp-shaped bumper sits slim, high technology headlights. They feature projection beam lamps with available LED Daytime Running Lights.

At the rear, the new locking tailgate emphasizes pickup’s wide stance. The tailgate includes integrated spoiler and a stamped Tacoma logo as well as easy lowering feature. There is also an available tri-fold hard tonneau cover for securing the gear.

Inside, the interior includes “handlebar” design theme in the instrument panel, leather-trimmed seats and metallic accents as well as wide range of premium features. To mention some: Qi wireless charging, power moonroof, dual-zone automatic climate control, enhanced touchscreen audio and Blind-spot monitor with Rear Cross Traffic Alert.

In addition every Tacoma will come standard with a GoPromount located near the rear-view mirror. The drivers of the new pick-up will enjoy also abundant array of technology features such as Multi-Terrain Select system Automatic Limited Slip and Locking Rear Differential, Hill Start Assist Control, Clutch Start Cancel, Active Traction Control, and Crawl Control.

Toyota will enter the Tacoma on the market in five different grades both 4×2 and 4×4 configurations: SR, SR5, TRD Sport, TRD Off-Road and the top of the line Limited.

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Toyota

January 13, 2015

Toyota Opens up Hydrogen Fuel Cell Patents [VIDEO]

At the 2015 Consumer Electronics Show, Toyota announced that it opens “the door to the hydrogen future” by sharing freely more than 5500 hydrogen fuel cell patents. This patent release announcement is very similar to a suggestion made by Tesla Motors CEO Elon Musk in June, last year. Nevertheless, it is rather important as by doing this, the Toyota gives pretty much carte blanche to different automakers around the world to build more and more fuel cell cars, which will result in requesting more hydrogen stations.

The list of royalty-free fuel cell patents is comprised of 1,970 patents which have to do with fuel cell stacks, 290 related to high-pressure hydrogen tanks, 3,350 associated with fuel cell system software control and 70 patents that cover hydrogen production and supply.

In relation to this highly important statement, Bob Carter, senior vice president of automotive operations at Toyota in a statement pointed out that; “When good ideas are shared, great things can happen.”

Interestingly enough, the announcement was made after the introduction of the new Toyota Mirai which receives an estimated range of about 300 miles from its hydrogen tanks. In addition to this, hydrogen tanks takes around five minutes to be refilled, which is something similar to gasoline-fueled vehicles. Finally, the hydrogen-powered car by Toyota went on sale in Japan in December and will go on sale in the US and Europe and in late 2015.

If you want to find out more, check out the link bellow.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EU8PMd-pwkg

Source: Toyota

Video Source: Toyota via Youtube

January 7, 2015

Toyota Unveils 2015 Harrier Elegance G’s

2015 Toyota Harrier Elegance G’s is the next model which has just made an official debut in Japan. Just like the Mark X GRMN, the car will go on sale next month and will be strictly distributed only in this country. The car is based on the Harrier G Sports concept. However, the production model features more athletic design due to its revised grille and chrome accents.

The car also received new rear diffuser to make things a little sportier. In addition to this, Toyota has decided to lower the car 35mm closer to the ground via a sport-tuned suspension.

Also worth the mention are the chromed exhaust tip and the 19-inch aluminum wheels with black accents on which the car runs. Other improvements of body stiffness include floor rigidity parts and spot welding point as well as front calipers and new brakes.

The car is powered by a 2.0-liter four-cylinder unit which produces 151 hp (111 kW) and 193 Nm (142 lb-ft) of torque. It is mated to a Super CVT-i transmission that can optionally include an AWD system.

Inside, the sporty styling theme is continued via the three-spoke sport steering wheel, sports seats and the carbon fiber trim. There are also piano black accents, contrast silver stitching and G’s badging on the instrument panel and center cluster panel.

Source: Toyota

December 29, 2014

2015 Toyota Mark X GRMN is an Expression of Pure Driving Joy

The sporty 2015 Toyota Mark X GRMN was just introduced. The sad news however is that it will be strictly limited to 100 production units and will be only distributed in Japan. Mark X GRMN is an example of a design which is inspired by “pure joy” and “driving enthusiasm”. It is built over the Mark X 350S used as a basis model. In fact, this is a “domestic” FR sedan, which adopts six-speed manual transmission and dedicated suspension tuning.

To go further into details, car’s transmission is linked to a V6 3.5L engine which produces 321 hp (236 kW) and 380 Nm (280 lb-ft) of torque. The transmission sends power to the ground via a Torsen limited-slip differential.

Body stiffness’ was improved due to the addition of the door stabilizer. At the same time, the car is lightweight. As you can see very well from one of the pictures below, the Japanese designers used carbon fiber roof panel and front and rear spoilers. This not only reduces weight, but also further improves running performance.

In addition, new spoiler was designed to support even more the aerodynamic performance. The side mirrors were painted in black so that they can contrast the white body and bring about sportier appearance. A dedicated GRMN emblem is placed on the front and rear of the car so that it can highlight its individuality.

Inside, the interior design is as athletic as the exterior. The gearshift lever has dedicated design. The same theme is featured in the sports seats and steering wheel. All in all, the cabin is decided in black and features some accents in piano black. They can be seen around the instrument panel.

At last, Mark X GRMN will also receive a 350S “G’s” and 250G “S package. G’s is characterized by an outer panel yellow color, which comes only for the “Yellow Label” model.

Source: Toyota

December 29, 2014

2016 Toyota Tacoma to get new LED Running Lights?

The second teaser of 2016 Toyota Tacoma is here. We have seen already the back of the truck and now it is time to take a look at its front. The vehicle will be introduced officially at the North American International Auto Show on 12th of January. Probably this is when the full reveal will happen and we are not going to see anything else but teasers ahead of it. The new vehicle is expected to raise the bar again and take everything to a new level.

Details released by Toyota are extremely scarce. And although it is a single image shared, it tells a lot. First, the grille – it is hexagonal and outlined in chrome. Next – the intake is positioned below the grille and visually connects the fog lights.

We continue with the most exclusive element of the front design which is the lights. The truck received brand new headlights that obviously feature LED running lights.

In terms of performance we expect that the Japanese company is to set a new benchmark for midsize pickups. There is no information on powertrain but rumors say that it is a brand new one, specifically developed for the Tacoma. What we are sure of is that the new pickup-truck will have a 4×4 driving configuration.

We also assume that the new model will look like all the new midsize trucks, especially like the TRD Pro Series. Stay tuned, because Toyota has promised to release more information on the 2016 Tacoma very soon.

Source: Toyota

December 18, 2014

Tag: Toyota