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Courtesy Toyota's automotive expertise is a product of our sustained interest in industry trends and characteristics. We are privileged to share the latest news, promotions and events with you and hope the information will enhance your shopping experience. As you know, there are many new cars from which to choose, and we believe an informed customer is the best customer.

Tesla Motors and Toyota Motor Corporation Formalize Agreement to Develop Electric Version of RAV4

Palo Alto, California, U.S.A., and Tokyo, Japan - TESLA MOTORS, INC. (Tesla) and TOYOTA MOTOR CORPORATION (TMC) today announced that the two companies have signed an agreement to initiate the development of an electric version of the RAV4 as announced in May of this year by Elon Musk and Akio Toyoda. With an aim to market the EV in the United States in 2012, prototypes will be made combining the Toyota RAV4 model with a Tesla electric powertrain. Tesla plans to produce and deliver a fleet of prototypes to Toyota for evaluation within this year. The first prototype has already been built and is now undergoing testing.
 
In May, Tesla and TMC announced their intent to cooperate on the development of electric vehicles, parts, and production system and engineering support. Tesla seeks to learn and benefit from Toyota's engineering, manufacturing, and production expertise, while Toyota aims to learn from Tesla's EV technology, daring spirit, quick decision-making, and flexibility.
 
TMC has, since its foundation in 1937, operated under the philosophy of "contributing to society through the manufacture of automobiles," and made cars that satisfy its many customers around the world. TMC introduced the first-generation Prius hybrid vehicle in 1997. The company also plans to introduce EVs into the market by 2012.
 
Tesla's goal is to produce increasingly affordable electric cars for mainstream buyers - relentlessly driving down the cost of EVs. California-based Tesla designs and manufactures EVs and EV powertrain components, and is currently the only automaker in the U.S. that builds and sells highway-capable EVs in serial production.
 
CONTACT:
Tesla Motors:?+1 650 681-5452?(Khobi Brooklyn, kbrooklyn@teslamotors.com )
Toyota Motor Corporation:?+81 3 3817-9161/9158?(Paul Nolasco, Mieko Iwasaki)
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TMC Develops Advanced Version of Its Virtual Human Model

-THUMS Version 4 Enables Analysis of Internal Organ Injuries-

Toyota City, Japan-Toyota Motor Corporation (TMC) announces that the latest version of its THUMS1 virtual human model allows detailed analysis of internal-organ injuries caused by automobile collisions.

THUMS Version 4, of an adult male of average build, adds detailed models of internal organs to the previous version's models of bones and the brain, enabling analysis of injuries to a wider range of internal organs. Internal organs are particularly
vulnerable during collisions, with injuries to them accounting for approximately half of all sustained during automobile collisions.

To develop Version 4, TMC worked with outside research institutes including universities and utilized a high-precision computed tomography (CT) scanner to make detailed measurements of the internal structure of the human body. By creating precise models of various internal organs, as well as the positions of and relations between those organs, TMC created a virtual human model containing approximately 14 times more information than the previous version. As a result, for analysis of
internal injuries, Version 4 can simulate in greater detail how, during a collision, areas of the torso become deformed and internal organs are damaged.

TMC intends to continue to use THUMS for analyzing internal injuries resulting from automobile collisions, applying the results to developing and improving safety devices such as seatbelts and airbags. TMC also plans to add models of a small female and
a large male to its virtual-human-model line-up, to enable simulation of a wider range of accident situations.

Toyota Technical Development Corporation, a TMC subsidiary, plans to begin selling THUMS Version 4 in the autumn of 2010.

1Name comes from: Total HUman Model for Safety. THUMS allows highly detailed analysis of bone fractures, severed ligaments, etc. by simulating many characteristics of the human body-ranging from the shape of the body to its skeletal structure and skin. TMC began developing THUMS in 1997 in cooperation with Toyota Central R&D
Labs., Inc. Version 1 was completed and commercially launched in 2000, followed in 2004 by Version 2, which added a face and bones to the model. Version 3, launched in 2006, added a precise model of the brain.
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Lexus Safety Feature Summary

PASSIVE SAFETY
 
Supplemental Restraint Systems (SRS)
Lexus engineers its vehicles with advanced passive safety technology, founded in a body structure equipped with front and rear crumple zones.  Lexus models are equipped with pretensioners and force limiters on the front seatbelts, and most models feature them on the rear outboard seatbelts, as well.
 
Lexus models are equipped with advanced deployment front airbags, front seat-mounted side airbags and side curtain airbags for all seating rows.  The advanced dual-stage front airbags are designed to deploy at one of two speeds, according to impact force.  The driver's front airbag also includes an extra low stage designed to deploy based, in part, on the seat's position on its track.  Lexus luxury utility vehicles are equipped with roll-sensing side curtain airbags.
             
DRIVING DYNAMICS
 
Advanced Braking Systems
All Lexus models come equipped with four-channel, four-sensor anti-lock brakes (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD).  ABS can help maintain steering control during emergency braking maneuvers.  In the LX 570 and GX 460 luxury utility vehicles, ABS operates even in low-range four-wheel drive.  Sensors monitor road conditions according to changes in wheel speed.  Such responsiveness helps the driver maintain control while traversing hilly, unpaved terrain.
 
All Lexus models are equipped with EBD, which helps to optimize brake pressure at each wheel, especially during braking while cornering.  Brake Assist, also standard on all Lexus models, is designed to determine if the driver is attempting emergency braking and, if the driver has not stepped firmly enough on the brake pedal to engage the ABS, Brake Assist (BA) applies increased braking pressure until the brake pedal is released.   
 
Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM)
For 2011, Lexus models equipped with the advanced Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM) system are all LS models, the GS 460 and GS 450h models, the IS 350, IS F and RX 450h.  Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), which also incorporates Traction Control (TRAC), is a part of the VDIM system and is used on the ES 350, GS 350, RX 350, GX 460 and LX 570 models.  VSC helps the driver keep the vehicle going on its intended course.  It detects front- and rear-wheel slide and attempts to control either condition using throttle intervention and/or by braking individual wheels.
           
VDIM integrates and manages a host of handling technologies more quickly than other dynamic handling technologies.  A component of VDIM is the Electronically Controlled Brakes (ECB), a "brake-by-wire" system (except in IS 250, IS 350, IS F and GS 350).  ECB translates brake pedal pressure into electric signals that, via computer control, help provide precise and optimized braking in virtually any traction condition.  Electronic control provides quick brake response when needed, helping the VDIM system to anticipate and help correct slides before they might occur.  The ECB system is backed by conventional hydraulic brake control in case of the unlikely event of electronic failure.
 
VDIM integration strategy provides precise control for the ECB, Electric Power Steering (EPS), VSC, BA, EBD and engine torque via the electronically controlled throttle.  On the LS 460 L, LS 600h L, GS 460 and GS 450h models, VDIM also influences Variable Gear Ratio Steering (VGRS) to affect minor steering corrections when needed.
 
In the IS F model, VDIM is specially calibrated to account for the demands of high-performance track driving.  Using a dashboard switch, the driver can select Normal, Sport or Snow driving modes.  In Sport mode, VDIM allows higher dynamic thresholds before intervening and alters steering assist to increase steering feel.  Sport mode enables optimal vehicle control on a track in areas where the skills of even top-level drivers are challenged.  Also in the IS F models, VDIM provides an electronically controlled brake-based limited-slip differential effect on the rear wheels.  During cornering, VDIM suppresses any tendency for the inside wheel to spin, transmitting more power to the outside wheel to maintain traction and momentum.  The experienced driver can disengage VSC/TRAC by pressing and holding the TRAC-off button for more than three seconds.
 
Seeing into Curves
The Adaptive Front-lighting System (AFS), which helps illuminate a turn or curve as the driver steers into it, is standard on the LS, GS 460 and GS 450h and LX 570 models.  It is available as an option on HS 250h, GS 350, ES 350, GX 460 and RX models.
 
The ES 350, LX 570 and LS models feature a dual-swivel version of AFS.  In this version of AFS, a medium-to-high speed mode allows the right and left front headlamp bulbs to both swivel toward the direction of the turn at the same time, enhancing system effectiveness.  In the first-generation AFS system, only the bulb on the side of the turn direction swivels toward the turn.
 
On the first-generation AFS, a central controller calculates the optimum lighting direction based on input from vehicle speed and steering angle and swivels the right and left headlights independently.  The left beam can rotate from zero to 15 degrees in a left turn while the right beam remains in the center position.  The right beam can rotate from zero to five degrees in a right turn while the left beam remains in a center position. 
 
The AFS headlamps have a self-leveling feature, similar to HID headlights.  An AFS on/off switch allows the driver to disengage the system at any time.
 
For the dual-swivel AFS, in a left turn the left beam can rotate from zero to 15 degrees (nine for the LX 570 and 20 for the LS 460), while the right beam rotates from zero to 7.5 degrees (LS models and ES 350) or zero to nine degrees (LX 570).  In a right turn, the right beam can rotate from zero to 10 degrees (four for the LX 570), while the left beam rotates from zero to five degrees (four for the LX 570).
 
Dynamic Radar Cruise Control and Pre-Collision System
All Lexus sedans (except IS sedan) and luxury utility vehicles offer the Pre-Collision System (PCS), which integrates the Dynamic Radar Cruise Control system.  A millimeter-wave radar sensor helps detect obstacles in front of the car, while vehicle speed, steering angle and yaw-rate inputs help to determine whether a collision is unavoidable.
 
In such a situation, PCS preemptively retracts front seat belts and pre-initializes Brake Assist so that increased braking will be applied the instant the driver depresses the pedal.  The active braking feature will automatically apply the brakes up to a deceleration rate of 0.3 g if the driver fails to react to system warnings.  On models equipped with Adaptive Variable air Suspension (AVS), the AVS system adjusts to firmer settings for optimal chassis response when PCS is activated.
 
The Dynamic Radar Cruise Control sensors use radar technology to help maintain a pre-set following distance from the car traveling in front.  If the vehicle gets too close, the throttle is automatically reduced and brakes are applied.  Once the road clears, the vehicle returns to its pre-set speed.
 
The HS 250h optional Pre-Collision System (PCS) also integrates a Driver Attention Monitor System.  When this system detects the driver's face is not facing forward and there is an object ahead, it will alert the driver first with a warning beep and if necessary, lightly taps the brakes to get the driver's attention.  When it deems a collision is imminent, it can automatically retract seat belt and prime the brakes to help reduce crash energy. 
 
LS models offer the Advanced Pre-Collision System (APCS) which is designed to help detect pedestrians in the vehicle's path.  Using two small cameras mounted at the front of the car that work in conjunction with millimeter-wave radar, APCS is sensitive enough to detect certain nonmetallic objects.              
 
The APCS option also integrates a Driver Attention Monitor System.  A camera mounted on the steering column monitors the orientation of the driver's face.  If the camera detects that the driver is not looking directly ahead for a few seconds or more, and if an obstacle is detected ahead, the system alerts the driver first with a warning beep and a flashing light.  As the car closes on the obstacle, if the driver does not react, APCS can begin to gently apply the vehicle's brakes. 
 
To assist the driver in maneuvering around the obstacle, APCS adjusts the steering ratio to quicken the degree and speed of steering response.  Simultaneously, in anticipation of a potential impact, the system automatically retracts the front seatbelts and prepares the brake assist system to respond with full power when the driver applies the brake pedal.
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Toyota's Household Hazardous Waste Day Collects More Than 200,000 Pounds of Waste

Equivalent to the Weight of 61 Toyota Camry Sedans
 
ERLANGER, Ky. - May 26, 2010 - Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing North America, Inc. (TEMA), Northern Kentucky Solid Waste Management Area and the Northern Kentucky Household Hazardous Waste Action Coalition, today announced results from its Household Waste Collection Day, held on Saturday, April 24. 
 
The event assisted residents of Boone, Campbell and Kenton Counties properly dispose of unwanted, hazardous items.
 
Results include:
 
? Participation from more than 1,000 residents of Boone, Campbell and Kenton Counties;
 
? Collection of 80,000 pounds of paint, or 10,000 gallons.  This is enough to paint 20,000 Toyota Camry sedans or five Boeing 747 jets;
 
? Collection of 72 appliances, including refrigerators, microwaves and televisions, weighing nearly 10,000 pounds, or the equivalent of nearly three Toyota Avalons.
 
? Collection of 6,600 pounds of oil, or 900 gallons.  This is enough oil to fill nearly 1,900 Toyota Corolla engines (based on 1.8 liter engine);
 
? 83,000 pounds of electronic waste, including computer monitors and keyboards, equivalent to the weight of nearly 20 Toyota Siennas.
 
"Our first Household Waste Collection event was a tremendous success," said Kevin Butt, General Manager of Environmental Engineering at TEMA.  "We'd like to thank our partners, volunteers, neighbors and the community for their participation.  Our event demonstrated that Northern Kentucky cares about the environment and that people are willing do to the right thing for our community.  Toyota is happy to do our part."
 
Toyota made a $10,000 donation to the Household Hazardous Waste Action Coalition to support this event and educate residents of Northern Kentucky on other environmental programs.
 
Event participants included: Battery Solutions, Bluegrass Recycling, Blue Rhino, Close The Loop, Covington Reuse Center, GES, Green Metals, NKY Drug Strike Force, NKY Haz Mat/WMD Response Team and United Waste Water.
 
About Toyota:
Toyota (NYSE:TM) established operations in North America in 1957 and currently operates 13 manufacturing plants. There are more than 1,800 Toyota, Lexus and Scion dealerships in North America which sold more than 2.05 million vehicles in 2009. Toyota directly employs more than 35,000 in North America and its investment here is currently valued at more than $23 billion, including sales and manufacturing operations, research and development, financial services and design. Toyota's annual purchasing of parts, materials, goods and services from North American suppliers totals more than $25 billion.
 
Toyota currently produces 12 vehicles in North America, including the Avalon, Camry, Corolla, Highlander, Matrix, RAV4, Sienna, Sequoia, Tacoma, Tundra, Venza and the Lexus RX 350.
 
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2011 Toyota Sienna and Avalon Earn Insurance Institute for Highway Safety 'Top Safety Pick' Award

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) has announced that the all-new Toyota Sienna van and redesigned 2011 Avalon full-size sedan have each earned "Top Safety Pick" awards.
 
The "Top Safety Pick" is the highest safety designation awarded by the IIHS.  To qualify for the award, a vehicle must earn the highest rating of "good" in the IIHS' front, side, rollover, and rear impact tests and be equipped with electronic stability control.  The IIHS testing was made more stringent in 2010 with the addition of the rollover test.
 
The new Sienna is the first, and currently the only minivan to earn an IIHS Top Safety Pick since the rollover test was added to the criteria.
 
To earn a "good" rollover rating, a roof must be able to support the equivalent of four times the vehicle's weight compared with the current federal standard of 1.5.  In the IIHS testing, the Sienna roof withstood a force equal to 4.12 times its vehicle weight.  The Avalon's weight withstood 4.07 times its vehicle weight.
 
The IIHS is an independent non-profit research and communications organization funded by auto insurance companies.
 
All Toyota models meet or exceed the safety requirements of the federal government and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
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News and Events

Tesla Motors and Toyota Motor Corporation Formalize Agreement to Develop Electric Version of RAV4
Palo Alto, California, U.S.A., and Tokyo, Japan - TESLA MOTORS, INC. (Tesla) and TOYOTA MOTOR CORPORATION ...
TMC Develops Advanced Version of Its Virtual Human Model
-THUMS Version 4 Enables Analysis of Internal Organ Injuries- Toyota City, Japan-Toyota Motor Corporation ...
Lexus Safety Feature Summary
PASSIVE SAFETY   Supplemental Restraint Systems (SRS) Lexus engineers its vehicles with advanced passive ...
Toyota's Household Hazardous Waste Day Collects More Than 200,000 Pounds of Waste
Equivalent to the Weight of 61 Toyota Camry Sedans   ERLANGER, Ky. - May 26, 2010 - Toyota Motor Engineering ...
2011 Toyota Sienna and Avalon Earn Insurance Institute for Highway Safety 'Top Safety Pick' Award
The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) has announced that the all-new Toyota Sienna van ...