Innovation
Engines
The new hybrid system debuted in the Toyota Prius is the first to be developed according to a revolutionary concept named Hybrid Synergy Drive©. Current–generation hybrids rely on the petrol engine to produce peak performance, with the electric motor as an ancillary. Hybrid Synergy Drive© also gives the electric motor a more significant role and focus on performance.
Read more about Toyota Engines
Safety
To realize the ideal vehicle a goal we never cease to pursue. We continue to strive for the technology that prevents and minimizes the damage of an accident in any situation.
"What causes accidents?"
"What can be done to prevent accidents?"
"What mitigates the damage of accidents that have occurred?"
These are the questions to which we are constantly seeking answers. Our technologies will continue to advance toward the ultimate goal of making a vehicle that is safe for everybody.
Environment
Motor vehicles interact with the environment throughout their entire lifecycle – from their initial design and the way they are manufactured, to their use on the road and their eventual disposal when no longer needed.
When driving, car engines release emissions into the air, influencing the chemical composition of the atmosphere we breathe and indirectly affecting weather patterns around the globe. The challenge is: How can these emissions be further reduced?
Read more about our Environmental approach
The Future
Concept cars are about turning dreams, emotion and inspiration into reality. They provide a unique chance for Toyota to demonstrate how its designers and engineers are constantly stretching their imaginations and creativity, leading to design innovation and technological advances. Concept cars enable Toyota to showcase what they plan for the future.
Toyota design centres in California, Japan and southern France submit design proposals for new concept cars on a regular basis. They send clay models to headquarters in Tokyo and the winner gets to develop the production vehicle.
Read more about Toyota Concept Cars
USB - connectivity
Yaris, Verso-S, Auris, Corolla, Verso, Avensis, Land Cruiser and Hiace, now feature a USB audio connection as standard. This connection allows an iPod or similar audio device to be integrated seamlessly into the vehicles audio system. While the new USB connection allows integration of an iPod one of the key features is that audio files (saved in WMA or MP3 format) can be played from a USB flash drive (memory stick).
Read more about USB Connectivity