← Toyota Global Product Strategy
Toyota Motor Corp. has issued the following press release:
Toyota Motor Corporation announced today the nationwide launch of the Alphard Hybrid, the hybrid version of the dynamic Alphard minivan, which will have hybrid vehicles in their product line-ups for the first time. Also a more stylish and fuel-efficient Estima Hybrid went on sale today.
Alphard Hybrid
The Alphard Hybrid features the Toyota Hybrid System-CVT (continuously variable transmission) (THS-C), which employs a hybrid battery with greater output than previous hybrid batteries and boasts better energy management. The system comprises a 2.4-liter high-efficiency gasoline engine, front motor and Super CVT and works in unison with an E-Four electric 4WD system that regulates a rear-mounted, rear-wheel-propelling electric motor and coordinates electric power distribution to all four wheels. An ECB (Electrically Controlled Brake system) provides efficient wheel-by-wheel brake control. Together, these features allow the Alphard Hybrid to simultaneously achieve groundbreaking high fuel efficiency, low emission levels and outstanding maneuverability and cruising stability.
The Alphard Hybrid can generate large amounts of electricity, which allows the use of a variety of home appliances, thus reaching new horizons in minivan enjoyment.
The advanced THS-C hybrid system efficiently uses engine and motor drive power, while the E-Four electric 4WD system recovers energy from each wheel, to achieve roughly twice the fuel efficiency called for by Japanese 2010 fuel efficiency standards (at 17.2km/liter in the 10-15 Japanese test cycle, as certified by Japan’s Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport) and greatly reduce CO2 emissions, despite the fact that the Alphard Hybrid is a 2-ton class 4WD vehicle. The Alphard Hybrid also qualifies as an ultra-low emission vehicle achieving emission levels 75% lower than 2000 standards under the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport’s Approval System for Low-emission Vehicles. — all-new Prius with hybrid system.
The high-efficiency 2.4-liter gasoline engine, front motor and Super CVT transmission combine to ensure a smooth and dynamic performance. The 4WD system provides better driving performance by using power from the rear-wheel drive motor when accelerating from start or on slippery road surfaces.
At the same time, ABS with EBD (Electronic Brake-force Distribution) and Brake Assist, along with VSC (Vehicle Stability Control), TRC (Traction Control System), ECB and the hybrid system integrate control of the electric 4WD system to coordinate electric power distribution and braking force to all four wheels for superior handling and driving stability by controlling the vehicle before it breeches the limits of normal controllable movement.
Taking advantage of its innovative hybrid system, the Alphard Hybrid can generate up to 1,500 watts of power while it is stationary or moving. It has standard household 100-volt AC power outlets that can be used to power a variety of home appliances, adding a new dimension to outdoor and business activities. — Toyota Wish minivan.
Sales Channels
Sales outlets: “Toyopet” dealers (“Osaka Toyota” dealers in the Osaka region) and “Toyota Vista” dealers
Monthly sales target: 600 units
Estima Hybrid
The Estima Hybrid’s THS-C (Toyota Hybrid System-CVT) hybrid system has been further evolved, leading to better acceleration and improved fuel efficiency. The Estima Hybrid now gets 18.6km to the liter in the 10-15 Japanese test cycle, compared to a previous 18.0km/liter, as certified by Japan’s Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport.
Styling-wise, design changes to the minivan’s front bumper, grill, rear combination lamps and exterior garnish, as well as the adoption of four new body colors, give the Estima Hybrid an advanced, refined look. On the inside, new seat fabrics and new interior colors add a sense of quality and luxury. — Toyota Sienta compact minivan.
The Estima Hybrid now comes with a pedestrian-injury-lessening body designed to minimize pedestrian head and leg injury in the event of a collision. It also incorporates a dedicated ISO-FIX1 compliant anchor point that can accommodate child seats equipped with a top-end tether tie-down.
Other new features include a Wide Multi-AV Station with a DVD voice navigation system compatible with G-BOOK information network services and a theater system engineered just for the Estima Hybrid that includes a DVD player, nine speakers and a nine-inch rear seat LCD monitor. The improved Estima Hybrid also boasts a range of advanced features, including a blind-corner monitor that displays views to the front left and right of the vehicle as well as of the ground immediately in front of the vehicle.
