The American market was always a strong market for the Toyota Supra, to the extent that some generations were born at Calty, its advanced design centre in California. When it made its return after an absence of 17 years, it was the North American International Auto Show that was chosen for its global debut.
So the American market is special to Toyota, especially where the Supra is concerned, and to recognise that, Toyota USA has developed a limited edition of the GR Supra just for the market. It’s the most exclusive 5th generation Supra to date and only 600 units will be available.
Carbonfibre treatment
The highlight of the GR Supra A91-CF Edition, as it is known, is a carbonfibre front splitter and larger canards, with carbonfibre side rockers define the lower edge along the sides. The carbonfibre treatment (hence ‘CF Edition’) continues at the rear end, with a duckbill spoiler catching the air up top and lower canards doing so down below.
Wind tunnel-tested
The aerodynamic features are not just for looks. Extensive testing has been done in a wind tunnel to shape them to improve downforce and stability, especially when on the racetrack. The performance should be almost similar to the other GR Supra as it uses the same 3-litre 6-cylinder engine.
Additionally, unique 19-inch wheels sport a matte-black texture that complements A91-CF Edition’s available matte-gray Phantom paint colour. The other technical specs are the same too, with an 8-speed Z-F8 transmission, Adaptive Variable Sport suspension and active rear sport differential. The front brakes are from Brembo, with red calipers.
Exclusive interior trim
The interior, with a red-and-black theme, also has some exclusive features that include carbonfibre interior trim. The Alcantara-and-leather-trimmed cabin includes red stitching details with a leather-wrapped 3-spoke steering wheel and sport pedals.
In Malaysia, the model is officially available through selected authorised dealers with the GR Garage. It is priced from RM589,987 (with sales tax exemption, without insurance). Visit toyota.com.my for more information or to locate a GR Garage showroom in Malaysia.
One of the longest running environmental program for Malaysian youth has reached its 20th edition this year. It’s the Toyota Eco Youth (TEY) program organised by UMW Toyota Motor (UMWT) in collaboration with the Ministry of Education.
The 20th edition recently came to a satisfying and exciting conclusion with the announcement of the Top 5 winning teams from secondary schools around Malaysia. A total of 16 teams participated in the program which had a revised format and presentation due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. To overcome the new challenges and limitations brought on by the Movement Control Order (MCO), the activities were moved online with interactive e-learning lessons and workshops. In all previous years, TEY activities involved face-to-face interactions but the need for social distancing and to protect each other meant that this approach could no longer be used.
During the online sessions, the participants were trained on project management skills that incorporate Toyota’s Problem-Solving Methodology. This new e-learning approach, conceived within a few months, proved so successful that it will be adopted for future programs.
This year’s program had the theme of ‘Reimagining Mobility’, with the spirit of inclusivity and freedom of ideas as the foundation to this theme which depicts the creation of safe and eco-friendly mobility.
The winning teams
Following the final judging phase after each of the 10 finalists made their respective ‘pitches’ with live presentations on May 29, 2021, the winning teams were chosen. They are, in first place, Maktab Tentera Diraja, Kuala Lumpur (We-Sea-It Smart Tool); second place, SMAP Labu, Negeri Sembilan (UCOnverter Smart Tool); third place, SMK Kubang Kerian, Kelantan (Recybin App); fourth place, SMK Chung Hua, Sarawak (Recyclo Smart Tools), and in fifth place, SMJK Katholik, Selangor (MOSS AFV Smart Tools).
The winning team from Maktab Tentera Diraja with their project that developed the ‘We-Sea-It Smart Tool’ that can help to address microplastics pollution in water sources.
SMK Saujana Utama, Selangor won recognition for the ‘Best Community Engagement’, with Noor Liyana Shamsudin from Maktab Tentera Diraja nominated as the ‘Most Supportive Teacher’. Three students were selected as the Top ‘Agent M’ – Hani Nabila from SMAP Labu, Negeri Sembilan; Lim Bo Jing from SMJK Katholik, Selangor and Muhammad Uwais Darwis from SMK Majakir, Sabah.
Increased prize money
For 2021, the total prize money has been doubled to RM64,000 to further reward ingenuity amongst the youth. This year, the winning team received RM20,000 in cash, followed by RM15,000 for second place; RM 10,000 for third place; RM7,000 for fourth place and RM5,000 for fifth place. The Most Supportive Teacher was rewarded with RM3,000 and RM1,000 each was offered for Best Community Engagement and Top Agent M.
The Closing Ceremony was conducted live via a virtual platform with Dato’ Haji Adzman bin Talib, Deputy Director-General of Education Malaysia (School Operational Sector), Ministry of Education, as the Guest of Honour. Also present for the virtual gathering was Mohd. Shamsor Mohd. Zain, Director of Marketing, UMW Toyota Motor, as well as other senior representatives from the Ministry of Education and UMWT.
Holistic learning experience
“This year’s Toyota Eco Youth program reflected the adaptability of the new generation to embrace technological advancements and take on an innovative approach in solving the environmental problems. The fundamental training which is the Toyota Problem-Solving methodology was done virtually and I’m proud to say that all students were extremely receptive towards it,” said Encik Mohd Shamsor.
“Throughout the program, with the guidance of teachers and mentors, the participants would have learnt team spirit, confidence, communication, presentation skills, all of which encompass a more holistic learning experience,” he added.
The well-thought proposals of the 16 teams were posted on social media channels for the public to view. Additionally, each team developed a podcast episode presented on the TEY Channel in two platforms – Agency on Leaderonomics FM and On TEY Channel.
Winners continue involvement
For the winners, the program does not end, as it did in previous years. The duration of the program will now be for 3 years and the winners from the 2020/2021 edition will continue as facilitators for the following year’s batch. They will thus be able to contribute their experience to the next batch. At the same time, digitalization of TEY is taken up a notch by setting up a TEY Apprentice online club.
About the Toyota Eco Youth program
Over the course of two decades, participants in the TEY have included 258 schools, 1,910 secondary school students and 762 teachers. Each year, challenging and interesting themes have been provided, and participants have come up with interesting, innovative solutions and proposals applicable to their school or community. Over RM7 million has been spent by UMWT to run the program annually.
“Toyota Eco Youth is a unique event in the Toyota world. Toyota Motor Corporation and UMW Toyota Motor are proud to be playing a part in cultivating environmental consciousness and innovative thinking for the young generation. It is assuring to know that the next generation will be ready to face new challenges that arise as we all strive to make our planet a better place for everyone,” said Akio Takeyama, Deputy Chairman of UMW Toyota Motor.
Carbon dioxide (CO2) is known to be one of the major causes of climate change, causing global warming. However, it is a by-product of modern industrial processes and unavoidable. To address the issue of rising carbon dioxide gas in the atmosphere, carmakers (as well as manufacturers in other industries) aim to become ‘carbon-neutral’ in the near future. This means that their processes, products and activities, while generating carbon dioxide, will be balanced with strategies that offset the CO2 generation to achieve net-zero emissions.
The approach most commonly being adopted, at least as far as the products are concerned, is to stop making and selling motor vehicles with internal combustion engines (ICE) that have been major contributors of carbon dioxide and other undesirable gases in the environment. Some have announced a time-frame for this approach, after which they will not sell models with ICE or, in some cases, models with only ICE (meaning they will still have hybrids). These companies are investing heavily in electric vehicles (EVs), powered by battery packs or fuel cells.
Toyota does not plan to completely stop selling models with petrol or diesel engines in the near-term but, at that same time, it already has a growing line of battery electric vehicles (below) for markets that want such vehicles.
Committed to carbon neutrality by 2050
Toyota is one of the companies firmly committed to carbon neutrality by 2050. However, the company’s strategy does not entirely focus on electrification of its products to the extent that future models will no longer be powered by ICE in the near-term. In time, it may decrease the amount of development of totally new ICE powertrains as EV acceptance in the market rises.
The thing is, advanced countries have developed the infrastructure to support EVs, so consumers are assured that owning an EV is not going to be inconvenient. Apart from widespread availability of public recharging stations, some countries also offer incentives to those who buy an EV. As a result, some countries in Europe already see EVs accounting for a large proportion of new vehicle sales.
For more advanced markets with the necessary infrastructure to support fuel cell vehicles, Toyota already has the second generation of its Mirai FCEV available.
Different pace in different regions
However, in other countries and regions, the transition to EVs may be at a different pace. For example, Indonesia, Thailand and Singapore already have clearly-defined plans to ‘go electric’ but Malaysia does not (although recent news suggests that some incentives may soon be announced). Countries in Africa might also be slower to stop allowing ICE vehicles due to their economies and other factors.
Toyota wants to make sure that ‘no customer is left behind’ and for this reason, it will use multiple technology solutions in its quest to achieve carbon neutrality, developing advanced electric vehicles as well as continue to make ICE as clean as possible. The carmaker’s view is that companies and societies should work together with all available technologies to achieve the best and fastest results towards carbon neutrality – using whichever solutions and infrastructures suit their local needs best.
7th Environmental Action Plan
Toyota is currently in its 7th Environmental Action Plan which runs until 2025. The targets for this plan include reduction of CO2 emissions by 30% or more (on average) compared to 2010 levels, and boost cumulative sales of electrified vehicles to 30 million or more. All models in the Toyota and Lexus ranges worldwide are to be available with either full electric or hybrid powertrains by around 2025.
At the same time, CO2 emissions are to be reduced by 18% or more throughout the entire vehicle life cycle (including manufacturing and driving) compared to 2013 levels.
“The goal is carbon neutrality. Promoting Battery Electric Vehicle sales or banning gasoline cars is not in any way the goal. It is a must that cars already on the road be made carbon-neutral. Rather than narrowing the way out by placing importance on the creation of regulations focused only on new cars and internal combustion engines, it is necessary to expand the paths to carbon neutrality by including all approaches,” said Toyota President, Akio Toyoda, in his capacity as President of the Japan Automobile Manufacturers Association (JAMA).
The Toyota Eco Youth (TEY) Program began 20 years ago and has become an annual event which UMW Toyota Motor (UMWT) continues to run. Even the ‘new normal’ brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic did not dampen UMW Toyota Motor’s efforts to cultivate environmental consciousness among Malaysia’s younger generation.
Spirit of inclusivity and freedom of ideas
For its 20th year, the event has an aptly coined theme – Reimagining Mobility – to promote the spirit of inclusivity and freedom of ideas as the foundation for creation of safe and eco-friendly mobility, despite the challenges of the pandemic.
Digital/online platform
In view of the pandemic conditions, the format has been revised to run on a fully online platform. Launched in January 2021 (for secondary school students aged 13 – 16 years old), it attracted the participation of 282 teams from 177 schools, the highest ever participation recorded by the program.
The adaptability of the program into a digital/online platform has included interactive e-learning lessons and workshops which proved to be highly effective. All in all, school teams were able to showcase their ideas through impressively produced videos and online presentations.
Since last December, 16 shortlisted teams have been formulating their proposals which were posted in social media channels for the public to view. Additionally, each team developed a podcast episode presented on Spotify.
The final judging phase in April saw 10 finalists being selected and the winning teams will be chosen after making their respective ‘pitches’ through live presentations on May 29, 2021.
Waste and recycling themes
Addressing the issue of waste and recycling were popular themes for the proposals. Showcasing impressive capability for innovation and advanced technology, many schools put forward ideas for digital smart tools, supported by carefully built prototypes.
Prize money doubled
“As always, we are highly impressed by the quality of the projects and the innovative ideas proposed. It is never easy for our judges to choose the best as everyone is a winner in their own way,” said President of UMW Toyota Motor, Ravindran K.
This year, UMWT has doubled the prize money to further reward ingenuity amongst the youth. Winning teams stand a chance to win cash prizes from a RM64,000 prize pool.
About the Toyota Eco Youth program
The program began 20 years ago in collaboration with the Malaysian Ministry of Education. Over the course of two decades, 258 schools, 1,910 secondary school students and 762 teachers. Have participated.
Each year, challenging and interesting themes have been provided, and participants have come up with innovative solutions and proposals applicable to their school or community. Over RM7 million has been spent by UMWT to run the program annually.
An annual event that has the participation of secondary schools from all over the country.
“Toyota Motor Corporation and UMW Toyota Motor are proud to be playing a part in cultivating environment consciousness and innovative thinking for the young generation. This year, we are pleased to share our vision for mobility with these students. It is assuring to know that the next generation will be ready to face new challenges that arise as we all strive to make our planet a more mobile and inclusive place for everyone,” said Akio Takeyama, Deputy Chairman of UMW Toyota Motor.
With the auto industry accelerating towards electrification of its products, the FIA – the world motorsport governing body – is also making changes in regulations and introducing new categories that reflect the industry change. Of course, electrification is not new to motorsport and in Formula 1 and the World Endurance Championship, hybrid-type powertrains have been in used for many years.
Now the FIA is starting electrification in the World Rally Championship (WRC) with hybrid power to be introduced in the top tier. Three automotive firms – Hyundai, Toyota and M-Sport Ford – have agreed to a set of principles in the form of a ‘new deal’ that formalizes the close collaboration between all WRC stakeholders – manufacturers, the WRC Promoter and FIA – started in 2019, when the introduction of hybrid technology in 2022 was announced.
In this joint initiative, the FIA and WRC Teams are committing equally to the development of the hybrid technology that will be incorporated in the new-generation cars. In addition, the FIA introduces an innovative partnership model based on a 3-year cycle, unlike the current annual commitment, which will offer better stability and planning opportunities as well as a new marketable asset for all parties.
Shared contribution for technology development
The 3-year agreement includes a shared contribution to the development costs of the technology for this new era, which will have a strong focus on safety, cost management and sustainability. Through this model, the participation in the FIA World Rally Championship will shift in 2022 to a numerus clausus (closed number) system of 4 slots, with each of the three current manufacturers and the FIA owning one slot.
The FIA and the manufacturers have made a significant investment in this program which will see the development of a state-of-the-art plug-in hybrid powertrain. The Rally1 category that will replace the World Rally Car category continues to gather momentum ahead of its planned 2022 roll-out, with the commitment from the series’ current manufacturers coming as a new milestone following the approval of the technical regulations by the World Motor Sport Council.
While securing the commitment of the three current manufacturers until 2024, the FIA reaffirms its determination to developing new stability and cost-effective solutions at difficult times commercially. The Rally1 category will also showcase major safety breakthroughs with a new safety cage design, developed in collaboration with the manufacturers following an exhaustive analysis and crash test program.
M-Sport Ford, Hyundai and Toyota have given their commitment to support the new Rally1 category with hybrid technology.
Making sport more sustainable
“The FIA World Rally Championship is on the brink of reaching an important milestone with the new-generation cars, Rally1, coming in 2022. A switch to plug-in Hybrid power reflects the latest trends in the automotive industry, at the same time making the sport more sustainable. This was made possible owing to the joint efforts of the Manufacturers and the FIA,” said Jean Todt, President of the FIA.
“The fact that all three of the brands currently involved in the WRC committed for a further 3 years proves that world rallying is heading in the right direction. Thanks to everyone who contributed to this achievement. And this comes together with the transition to sustainable energy, which is one of the main objectives of the FIA and its Purpose Driven movement,” he added.
Together with technical partner Compact Dynamics, these are some of the key project milestones:
• Design and prototype manufacture of the hybrid units
• Bench testing of the prototype units is in progress
• Initial units supplied to teams for integration into their safety cell designs
• Analysis of assimilation of turbocharged petrol engine with hybrid units along with dyno testing
• Selected private testing of Rally1 development cars
Formula 1 cars have had hybrid power units for some time now, along with WEC cars.
On course for 2022 implementation
“The Rally1 hybrid project is a major landmark in the development of rallying and underlines the FIA’s commitment to sustainability and advanced technology,” said Yves Matton, FIA Rally Director. “Of course, any new product that is being developed encounters challenges. During the current test phase, there is strong collaboration between the FIA, the manufacturers and our technical partners. We are working as one to complete tasks that are synonymous with a development cycle of this nature.”
“At present, we are operating an accelerated process due to delivery delays brought about by the effect of the COVID-19 pandemic but with eight months remaining to the start of the 2022 season, we are on course,” he added.
UMW Toyota Motor (UMWT) reported that it started off the second quarter of 2021 with strong sales of 9,280 vehicle for the Toyota and Lexus brands, a 12.7% increase over the number of vehicles delivered in March. The rising sales volume was largely driven by restored consumer purchasing confidence, with growing demand for the appealing new models such as the Corolla Cross and Harrier.
Furthermore, with the PENJANA sales tax exemption set to expire at the end of June this year, many are also not wasting the chance to save money.
Measures helping restore confidence
“The COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in an extremely challenging year for both manufacturers and consumers, but measures put in place by the Government has successfully restored and strengthened consumer purchasing power,” said Akio Takeyama, Deputy Chairman of UMW Toyota Motor.
He also attributed the growth in sales to the timely introduction of numerous new models that have been able to firmly establish new benchmarks in the various vehicle segments by enhanced technological and safety features, styling and driving dynamics.
Latest Corolla Cross and Harrier (below) helped boost sales in April.
Network expansion continues
Although business may seem slow for now due to the pandemic, UMWT is not sitting still and preparing for the future with continued commitment for expansion and the enhancement of its sales and aftersales service network. It has opened a new 2S Sales and Service Centre in Cheras (PDC Automobile) and two new 3S Sales, Service and Spare Parts Centres in Johor Bahru and Terengganu.
New Toyota 3S dealership in Kemaman, Terengganu.
“Additionally, we have also been paying close attention to customers’ inclinations for online connections as indicated by strong digital preferences and gains that we have received through online enquiries and bookings. We will continue our assertive pursuit on digitally-led avenues and serve our customers better on all platforms, moving forward,” said Ravindran K., President of UMW Toyota Motor.
Hari Raya Aidilfitri promotions
With the Hari Raya Aidilfitri festive period underway, UMWT has a Countless Rewards promotion which offers customers will continue savings that can be enhanced with Toyota Service Savers that lower maintenance cost for their vehicles. New car buyers can also opt to benefit from lower instalments (depending on model) with UMWT’s EZ Beli financing scheme.
Mr. Ravindran added that UMWT’s annual Hari Raya Festive Film titled ‘Umi Pembaris’ will be released this week. “It honours timeless lessons on family values, culture and tradition that we keep ever so closely to our hearts even in this age of change, transformation and modernization,” he said.
For more information on Toyota models available in Malaysia and the locations of showrooms nationwide, visit www.toyota.com.my.
The auto industry has been developing autonomous vehicles that can operate on their own, without human control, and sometime in the future, perhaps all vehicles on the road will move around autonomously. However, besides imagery and sonar scanning to detect other vehicles and road-users so as not to knock into them, vehicles can also communicate with each other to enhance safety.
For example, if there is an accident around a blind corner, vehicles near it can broadcast the hazard and other approaching vehicles can take appropriate action to slow down. Likewise, at junctions, communications between vehicles could greatly improve safety and avoid accidents.
In order for this to be possible, there must be a common communications system that all vehicles can use and this is now being developed. Suzuki Motor Corporation, Subaru Corporation, Daihatsu Motor, Toyota Motor Corporation and Mazda Motor have reached an agreement to jointly develop technical specifications for next-generation vehicle communications devices and to promote the common use of communications systems.
Linking automobiles and other related elements
These systems will use connected services to link automobiles and other related elements with the aim of creating new appeal, value and services, to be standardized for early provision of safer and more convenient connected services.
Within the field of CASE (connected, autonomous/automated, shared, and electric), which is said to be bringing about major transformations in the automotive industry, rapid advances are being made in the connected domain, in relation to the communications and data aspects of technology and business including cloud services, Internet of Things (IoT), Big Data, and AI. Individual automobile manufacturers are independently developing vehicle communications devices, and even in cases where the same connected services such as remote operation functions are provided, each company is adopting a different approach in proceeding with development and deploying relevant resources.
Safer and more convenient connected services
In response to these circumstances, the companies can provide safer and more convenient connected services to customers as early as possible, by positioning the development of vehicle communications devices, which are basic functions of the connected car, as a cooperative domain; positioning the development of applications and services as an in-house domain; and achieving greater efficiency and accelerating the development of vehicle communications devices. Each company can focus more on the development of applications and services on this common infrastructure through these steps.
Having a common communications system is vital as individual systems will create a fragmented infrastructure. It can be likened to the establishment of the common Windows operating system. In the early years of computers, there were different operating systems and users could not easily communicate with each other, or even exchange data. Once the Windows system (or MS-DOS) became a common system, companies could focus on developing software that was compatible and this led to faster growth for the industry.
At this time, Suzuki, Subaru, Daihatsu, and Mazda, while incorporating their own technologies into the base vehicle communications technologies developed by Toyota, will together build systems for next-generation connected cars with common connection specifications from vehicles to networks and the vehicle communications device centre.
A common communications system will allow vehicles of different brands and types to exchange information, reducing accidents.
Optimizing R&D resources
As a result, by stabilizing the communication quality between vehicles and vehicle communications device centre further, it will be possible to provide more convenient connected services to customers, such as clearer calls between customers and operators and faster connection speeds. At the same time, it will be possible to reduce the development burdens of each participating company and simplify system operation and version upgrades that include additional new functions, thereby optimizing resources such as facilities and personnel.
The 5 companies will openly consider collaboration with other like-minded partners regarding the joint development agreed on at this time while continuing their efforts to develop services that enrich the lives of people and solve social problems.
Motorsports have long been used for the testing and development of many new technologies which have eventually been used for everyday cars. Engineers who work with racing teams have to do so under challenging conditions that also require speed due to competition, and this provides fertile ground for developing new solutions to improve performance.
Toyota Motor Corporation (TMC) will also be taking this approach in developing a hydrogen-fuelled engine. Actually, the engine already exists and It has been installed in a racing car based on Toyota’s Corolla Sport. This car will enter races under the ORC ROOKIE Racing banner, starting with the Super Taikyu Series 2021 Powered by Hankook Round 3 NAPAC Fuji Super TEC 24 Hours Race in May.
The hydrogen-fuelled racing car undergoing tests.
By refining its under-development hydrogen engine in the harsh environment of motorsports, Toyota aims to contribute to the realization of a sustainable and prosperous mobility society, ultimately enabling a carbon-neutral mobility society.
Toyota has long engaged in the innovation of engine technology, and in fact, the company has not only successful developed fuel cells (FCs) which use hydrogen that chemically reacts with oxygen in the air to produce electricity, but it has also used those fuel cells to power the electric motor in the Mirai, Toyota’s first commercialised fuel cell electric vehicle (FCEV). Except for the combustion of minute amounts of engine oil during driving, which is also the case with petrol engines, hydrogen engines emit zero CO2 when in use.
For the hydrogen engine, the fuel delivery systems for FCEVs have been modified from those used with petrol engines. Combustion in hydrogen engines occurs at a faster rate than in petrol engines, resulting in a characteristic of good responsiveness. While having excellent environmental performance, hydrogen engines also have the potential to relay the fun of driving, including through sounds and vibrations.
Plans are for the hydrogen-engined racing car to be fueled during races using hydrogen produced at the Fukushima Hydrogen Energy Research Field. While aiming to expand the hydrogen infrastructure in Japan by promoting hydrogen use, Toyota intends to continue advancing efforts for economic recovery and revitalization of the Tohoku region together with all parties concerned.
Even in safety, Toyota intends to apply the technologies and know-how that it has accumulated through the development of fuel cell vehicles and the commercialization of the Mirai. To ensure safety related to the use of hydrogen and high voltage, the countermeasures cultivated during the development of electrified vehicles such as FCEVs and HEVs were implemented. These measures are based on the basic approach of ensuring that hydrogen does not leak and, in the unlikely event that any leaks should occur, ensuring their immediate detection and stoppage.
Mirai – Toyota’s first commercialised fuel-cell electric vehicle runs on hydrogen. Two generations have been produced since it first went on sale in 2014.
Toward achieving carbon neutrality, Toyota has been strengthening its efforts, such as by aiming to promote the use of hydrogen through the popularization of FCEVs and numerous other fuel-cell-powered products. Toyota has been taking various initiatives toward the creation of a hydrogen society, such as selling the Mirai and SORA FCEV bus, selling FC systems to FC product companies, as well as allowing royalty-free use of its FCEV-related patent licenses.
Toyota has developed a product that packages individual FC system-related products of second generation Mirai with enhanced performance, such as the FC stack, as well as components that handle air supply, hydrogen supply, cooling, and power control, into a single compact module.
Toyota is known to be cautious in venturing into new segments, watching competition start first and seeing the shortcomings – and then coming in with products that are often better. With electrification, the company has had dominance in the hybrid segment but seemed to be slow to get into full electrification. This is not to say that it was not developing models, but commercialising them was something that was slower.
Now, however, the company is starting its big push into full electrification, which is part of its commitment to contribute to reducing CO2 emissions. To achieve this. Toyota is establishing a full line-up of electrified vehicles which will reach around 70 by 2025; at least 15 models will be launched by 2025.
Starting with SUV BEV
At Auto Shanghai, which is on this week, the Japanese carmaker has announced its new BEV (Battery Electric Vehicle) series to start off and is displaying a concept car, the Toyota bZ4X, as a preview of the first model of this series. To be made in China and Japan, worldwide sales of the production version of the new SUV BEV is expected to start by the middle of 2022.
Development of the bZ series (‘bZ’ stands for ‘beyond Zero’) is based on BEV-dedicated platforms that can be used with multiple variations in terms of size and design. Since it is difficult for Toyota to prepare such a wide range of choices by itself, it is jointly developing the series with partners who have the appropriate expertise in various fields. In the case of the bZ4X, Subaru is involved as a partner.
e-TNGA platform
The new vehicle will adopt the e-TNGA BEV-dedicated platform that was jointly developed by the two companies. It takes advantage of the strength of Toyota, which boasts expertise in vehicle electrification, and Subaru, which possesses AWD technologies. The bZ4X combines a long wheelbase with a short overhang which allows both a distinctive design and interior space comparable to a D-segment sedan.
The bZ series BEVs will have a human-centered approach aimed at widespread use in regions such as China, the USA and Europe, where there is significant demand for BEVs, and where there is a large supply of renewable electricity.
A uniquely shaped steering wheel eliminates the need to change grip when steering, and also contributes to a spacious interior. The vehicle will have a steer-by-wire system that provides a smooth driving feel aligned with the driver’s intentions. The low position of the instrument panel and the location of the meters above the steering wheel serve not only to enhance the vehicle’s sense of space, but also improve visibility and contribute to safe and secure driving.
The bZ4X has a new AWD system jointly developed by Toyota and Subaru. In addition to the use of regenerative energy systems, the vehicle also adopts a solar recharging system that recharges the battery while stationary.
I would be lying if I said I was not excited about driving the GR Yaris.
“You go la bro, do a written and video review of the drive experience,” said Chips in our Piston/BikesRepublic/MotoMalaya Whatsapp group chat.
I saved the formalities, thanked Chips and dove right in. There was no, “are you sure, bro?”
I love my colleagues, but I love the cars more. There was no way was I going to say no to driving what is arguably the 10 most interesting drivers cars of the past decade. Or maybe 20.
The invite said to be there by 8, the sheer excitement woke me up by 530. I got there by 820. Traffic was bad.
After all the formalities, hellos and a quick breakfast, there it was, the car that had dominated the news for a while, and was deemed as the most exciting hot hatch in a while, and I was unimpressed. I found myself thinking, “damn, it is rather small and unassuming.”
It really is small. Tiny almost. Almost the size of a Mini Cooper 3-door. But wider. Which is not a bad thing. Some of the greatest cars are all short, wide and low. That’s the basics of a great hot hatch. Think Renault Clio V6.
But sit inside and it feels comfortable, with an almost family sort of friendliness to it; the type that feels like you could drive it all day and then some.
And despite all that, there was an aura in the air inside the GR Yaris that set the purpose straight. Telling whoever it is that sits in it that it was something special. This was not a regular Toyota and you could feel it.
Perhaps it was the data logger lookalike head unit that dominated the central dashboard. Or perhaps it was the very obvious focus of the 6-speed manual with an aluminium shifter. Or perhaps it was the plastic laminated sticker that read out the car’s purpose in life – ‘Developed For FIA World Rally Championship’. But the biggest giveaway to the purpose of this Yaris was in its name – Toyota Gazoo Racing Yaris.
“I sat in one of those things,” says my cousin Miki the day after my drive at Sepang.
I drove the Yaris from London to Cardiff, and it was horrid,” he said.
“Yes, but I bet it wasn’t the GR Yaris,” was my answer.
“Of course not, I heard those things are quite special,” was his answer.
He could not be more right. The GR Yaris truly is special. It is also a Frankenstein of sorts as it is the combination of a Toyota Yaris front and a Toyota Corolla back. Hence why it looks so wide at the back, because it is all-wheel-drive, and the wider track helps it go rallying. A perfect canvas for Tommi Makinen’s Toyota GR Rally team to develop a world dominator.
But there is little point in going further here, even if I were to wax lyrical about how much fun the car is to drive, which it really is, on track at least because I haven’t driven it on road – the fact of the matter is that you cannot buy a Toyota GR Yaris anymore. Not a brand new unit in Malaysia at least.
UMW Toyota Malaysia offered only 125 units of the GR Yaris to the Malaysian public, and all of them have been spoken for.
I did question the need to write this article before starting, since you won’t be able to buy it brand new here anyway. But the car is undoubtedly amazing, and deserves an article of its own.
And I totally understand the demand for it, I want one too. I can’t remember the last time I drove something that made me want to do some very illegal things with it. Every couple of years, a manufacturer will release something truly special that will blow away even the most dedicated of passionists – the GR Yaris is one of them.
Visually though there is nothing special about the car – inside or outside.
The uninitiated could easily be fooled into thinking it were a custom Myvi with a wide body kit which had spent time at the chop shop to get rid of the two back doors.
It really isn’t visually impressive. It won’t make your children squeal in delight when they see one, it will make your wife question her marriage to you should you spend over a quarter of a million ringgit in a car the size of a Myvi. It won’t get you the girls.
It will however get you lots of questions from fanboys. Myvi’s will want to race you, the Type R boys will “cucuk” you every chance they get. And the AMG and Golf R boys will have a laugh smoking you.
But that’s okay though, because as soon as you hit the corners, you will have the last laugh, because in the corners is where this Yaris becomes at one with its element.
In fact I dare say that in tight corners and in the right hands, this Yaris will “re-smoke” the AMG and Golf R. Such is its talent and capabilities, but a short wheel-base all-wheel-drive car will always need some experienced, talented hands that know what to do in case things get hairy. And things will get hairy very quickly.
The all-wheel drive system is intelligent, in normal mode, it sends 60% of power to the front wheels, while in track mode it sends 50% of the power to the rear for perfect power distribution, and in sport mode it sends 70% of power to the back wheels, making it a tiny tail happy car.
We did get a chance to feel this layout for ourselves, the sport mode around the gymkhana track which was set up to initiate a slide – a 360 degree donut drift, a slalom course then into a high speed gets the tail out if you pull the handbrake hard enough. Onto another slalom then hard on the brakes.
It was in the track mode that really made me realise that there are certain limitations to the car. Brake hard into a slow corner like turns one, four, nine and 15 of the Sepang Circuit and the rear will threaten to break loose. In fast corners especially turns five and six you have to modulate the pedal and even then there is this niggling sensation that the back just wants to break free.
Power is from a three-cylinder, 1.6 turbocharged engine. It puts out 261PS and 360km/h. Get the shifts right and this Yaris will reach 100km/h in just 5.5 seconds. Top speed is rated at 230km/h.
But it is not how much power it puts out, it’s how it feels doing it.
Floor the pedal and there is no roar or scream that follows the acceleration. It is more of a “whoosh” of the turbocharger. Did you really expect a three-cylinder engine to scream?
I am not mocking the engine here. What Toyota has achieved with a three pot engine makes it the most power three-cylinder engine in the world. Ever! Read that sentence again, perhaps then we can truly appreciate the magnificence of this small car.
Then there is the fact this Yaris is in fact a homologation special – meaning that it was bred for racing. Rallying, to be more accurate.
Toyota built 25,000 units of the GR Yaris, because the rules of homologation says a manufacturer needs to build 25,000 units of a model, and it goes on to say that 2,500 of those can be high performance variants as well. Which suggests that rumours around Toyota building a more hardcore version of the GR Yaris may actually be true. Hello GRMN!
There is no doubt that the Toyota GR Yaris is a special car to drive, though it may not look like it to the untrained eye. This is a car that needs to be driven to be appreciated, and those that know, they know.
My biggest gripe with this car? That UMW Toyota Motor is not able to offer more units than the 125 already sold. That more people are not able to enjoy such a fantastic machine. This is a car that could potentially define a generation, a legend like the Golf GTI and the Renault Megane. And unfortunately enthusiasts will have to turn to the grey import market to buy it, robbing them of official Toyota after sales support.
There is also word from friends who have booked the GR Yaris that their bookings are a money making tool now. Some are getting random phone calls offering to buy their booking for double the booking fee paid. Demand is so hot that at the point of writing, the GR Yaris offers better return on investment than any form of investment type, be it properties, gold, petroleum or energy stock.
A great car it is, one of the modern legends, but it remains to be seen how that three-cylinder engine deals with all that abuse.
And if your wife threatens to leave you because you spent a quarter of a million ringgit on a car that looks like a Myvi, tell her that it is a better investment than the jewellery she forced you to buy her. For now at least.
