Video: A Very Bizarre Incident

It’s a crazy, crazy world we live in. Don't believe us? Just take a look at this incident that took place somewhere in Asia, possibly in China if Google Translation did its work (visit the comment section to correct us if we're wrong).
While we can't be certain of the details surrounding this bizarre episode since the description on Youtube doesn’t make much sense after we translate it into English, through the dash-mounted camera we see someone who is driving a small green Toyota being chased by two men, one holding a baseball bat.
Two minutes into the video, we find that the man with the bat has jumped on the moving car and is trying to smash the window before it collides with the vehicle filming the scene... Watch it for yourself in the clip after the break.

VIDEO

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2012 Toyota Camry Appears in Different Form in Ukraine

After this week's world premiere of the North American market 2012 Camry, Toyota is now preparing the debuts of its mid-size sedan in other regions of the world. First up is the Ukrainian version, which will most likely be offered in the same form in other surrounding markets including Russia.

While both iterations of the 2012 Toyota Camry share the same body and platform, the Ukrainian model sports a different and more prominent front-end design with bespoke headlamp units, bumper, hood, grille and front fenders.

The profile remains the same while at the rear Toyota's designers extended the tail lamps and restyled the deck lid that now features a subtle lip.

Inside, the changes seem to be limited to the region-specific trim and color options plus a different glove box design.

Toyota Ukraine said the new 2012 Camry will be offered locally with a choice of 2.5-liter four-cylinder and 3.5-liter six-cylinder gasoline engines, and prices starting from US$33,050, with more details to be available before the end of the year.

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toyota camry 2012 First Drive

Since 1997, the Toyota Camry has been the best selling car in America every year but one (2001). Furthermore, the Camry platform serves as the foundation for the following Toyota and Lexus models: Avalon, Highlander, Sienna, Venza, ES350, RX350, and RX450h. Collectively, they added up to 738,415 sales in 2010—42 percent of To¬yota’s American total. Though Camry chief engineer Yukihiro Okane doesn’t say it, Toyota was perhaps embarrassed by losing out in mpg ratings to competitors, specifically the Ford Fusion hybrid and the Hyundai Sonata.

The base four-cylinder is now rated at 25 mpg city and 35 highway—up 3 mpg each.



Toyota achieved these improvements without direct fuel injection, downsized engines, or turbocharging. The hybrid loses an additional 66 pounds and gets a more efficient Atkinson-cycle engine with an electric water pump, more-effective regenerative braking, increased electric-motor usage, and better high-voltage-battery control. The hybrid benefits from a shrunken and relocated battery/electronics package, increasing trunk space from 11 cubic feet to 13. The SE would be our choice among the many models available (L, LE, SE, SE V-6, XLE, XLE V-6, hybrid LE, and hybrid XLE). Though there are still a multitude of Camry models, Toyota has substantially reduced the number of build combinations.



Would you believe that we once described the Toyota Camry -- the whipping boy of the enthusiast automotive media -- as "the gold standard of mid-size motoring?" Back in 1992, the Camry was Toyota's first mid-size car and the first one designed just for the American market. In the two decades since, the Camry's standard horsepower jumped 30 percent and torque more than 15 percent.



Because, even though each successive generation of Camry demonstrated improvements on paper, it became less appealing to car enthusiasts. Last year's Camry, like the 1992 edition that changed the game, was quiet, smooth, comfortable, and reliable.



The 2012 Camry's single biggest improvement is its interior. There's an unnecessary, but hugely welcome, band of contrasting thread stitched into the Camry's attractive, horizontally themed upper dash. Moreover, the Camry's liquid-butter driving experience is better than ever. The improvements come despite a significant weight loss (about 110 pounds versus last year's Camry) and additional equipment, including three more air bags, for a total of ten. The new four-cylinder Camry, meanwhile, jumps to the top of the class with expected 25/35 mpg ratings.



That highway rating matches the current Camry Hybrid's, which would be a problem for Toyota's marketing department if the 2012 Camry Hybrid didn't leap all the way to 39 mpg. In fact, combined fuel economy for the hybrid increases 25 percent, from a mediocre 33 mpg to a class-leading 41 mpg. Best of all, the Camry Hybrid is no longer painful to drive -- the soupy handling, artificial steering, bouncy ride, grabby brakes, and clumsy throttle response we complained about have all vanished without a trace. Why, yes, we just said that about a Toyota Camry.



We in the media gathered in Dearborn, LA, New York and Kentucky yesterday to simultaneously experience the official launch of the new, seventh-generation Toyota Camry, best selling car in the US for 13 of the last 14 years. The 2012 Camry will arrive in dealerships beginning the first of October. Camry Hybrid will come on line shortly thereafter.



The Camry’s profile, stance and ambiance are virtually unchanged. The slightly narrower C-pillar, modest lower body cladding, more stylish headlight and taillight designs, larger lower front fascia and other evolutionary fascia updates, distinguish the exterior. Information output and controls remain simple, though we thought the Hybrid should have more information and better graphics. Both 4- and 6-cylinder engines carry over from the current models: that means a tepid, but adequate 2.5-liter, 178-horsepower 4-cylinder, and a plenty strong 3.5-liter, 268-hourspower V6.



The Hybrid claims 43 mpg on the highway and 39 in the city with a combined 28 mpg.



The rear suspension geometry has been changed to improve ride and comfort as well as improve straight-line feel without compromising typical Camry ride characteristics. Toyota’s new Entune™ voice-activated infotainment system with a small variety of apps is available on the new Camry. Somehow they’ve added 2.5 cubic-feet of cargo space in the trunk. The base LE model starts down $200 from the current model at $22,500. We also agree with our colleagues that Toyota will do well with the new car as their deep well of loyalists and brand fans gobble up the new Camry.

Disassembling a Toyota RAV4 EV battery pack [video]

We recently found a Youtube based TV series called ElectricThrust that focuses on EVs.

The RAV4 EV is an all-electric version of the popular RAV4 SUV produced by Toyota. With only 800 left on the road today, they were quickly dying off; That is, until Toyota teamed up with Tesla to mass produce these vehicles by 2012.

Clint, along with battery guru Derek Barger from Click High Tech Systems LLC, Broke into this EV to find out why it is starting to lose its "pep" With over 130,000 miles tacked onto it's battery pack the Rav4 is still running considerably well!

The most recent 'episode' was uploaded 8 months ago and their URL is dead so this series may be DOA but we will keep you posted on any new episodes.

Toyota unveil EV racing prototype

Toyota Motorsport GmbH (TMG) has revealed further details of its plan to make Nürburgring history on 29 August by setting a new electric vehicle (EV) lap record on the demanding 20.832km Nordschleife.

TMG's high-performance electric powertrain will power the car as it aims to significantly improve on the current lap EV record of 9min 1.338secs. Based on unofficial testing and depending on weather conditions, TMG expects to hit lap-record pace immediately, with additional days scheduled as back-up.

The TMG electric powertrain uses two electric motors to deliver peak power of 280kW and a top speed of 260km/h with zero emissions. That makes it ideal to power any future single-make electric motorsport series and TMG will begin commercial sales of its electric powertrain technology in 2012.

Total weight of the two-seater sports car is just 970kg, including the lithium-ceramic battery which allows for nimble handling around the demanding Nordschleife, essential for setting a competitive lap record.

TMG General Manager Electric & Electronics Ludwig Zeller said: "We want to demonstrate the high level of performance which can now be reached with an electric powertrain, not only in motorsport terms but as part of TMG's existing development work on road car EV technology. There is no more evocative place to illustrate this performance than on the Nordschleife. Our target is to beat the existing record by more than just a few seconds because that will demonstrate just how far our technology has developed since TMG began working on KERS systems in 2007. Many people are still dreaming of an electric future for motorsport; at TMG we believe this is much closer than some think and we intend to show what can be achieved with a high-performance electric powertrain."

TMG today revealed the first images of its electric vehicle, with a modern, dynamic livery from Aguti which captures a sense of electrifying speed. These images can be seen by clicking here.

TMG is also proud to announce its partners in this lap record attempt, all of whom enjoy visible branding on the electric vehicle. Aguti created and implemented the livery concept while rational motion integrated the electric powertrain, traction battery and control strategies. EVO Electric motor technology delivers the power and Yokohama is the tyre supplier.

Official timers will be present to authenticate the lap record while video and a photography crew will record a milestone achievement in EV development. These materials will be made available to all media immediately after any successful record attempts.

Plug-in Prius gets 128mpg range

The production version of the new Toyota Prius Plug-in Hybrid will be unveiled at the Frankfurt Motor Show on 15 September.

The first plug-in version of the Prius uses Toyota’s Hybrid Synergy Drive system, combining an electric motor for short distances and low speeds with a small petrol engine to provide flexibility and range.

The Prius Plug-in Hybrid features a more compact lithium-ion battery which is claimed to help achieve fuel efficiency of 128.4mpg. The new technology also reduces CO2 emissions to 49g/km –almost half that of the standard Prius.

Toyota says the new model has, “extended EV driving range for shorter journeys in towns and cities, while the efficient hybrid petrol engine gives the car uncompromised long range capability and the very low fuel consumption of the standard Prius.”

This new plug-in model will become the flagship model in the Prius range. It joins a host of other efficient Toyota vehicles including the Auris hybrid, the new seven-seat Prius+ and the new Yaris hybrid.

The first plug-in version of the Prius will go on sale in Autumn 2012 and will cost around £30,000. The Prius Plug-in qualifies for the Government’s incentive payment of £5000 for plug-in electric vehicles, so the on-the-road price will be closer to £25,000.

2012 Toyota Prius Plug-in Hybrid

Toyota to Debut 2012 Prius Plug-in Hybrid with up to 107MPG at the Frankfurt Motor Show



The car differs from the standard Prius because it uses lithium-ion batteries to power the electric motor, instead of the nickel metal hydride battery pack in the current version. These batteries can be recharged by plugging into mains electricity.



The addition of a compact lithium-ion battery with plug-in capability increases both the efficiency as well as the car's all-electric driving range to around 13 miles or 21 km at speeds of up to 62mph (100km/h). Once the battery is depleted the PHEV reverts to its hybrid mode and operates as a regular Prius.



Other than its lithium-ion drive battery — a standard Prius uses nickel metal hydride — Prius plug-in's running gear is virtually identical to a standard Prius. The cost to charge its 1 kW-hour drive battery, which charges in less than three hours at a 110-volt outlet, is negligible — less than 10 cents per charge at Ameren's current residential rates.













Press Release



The new Prius Plug-in Hybrid - the greenest, most technically advanced Prius yet



The Prius Plug-in Hybrid, Toyota's first plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) to go on sale to the mass market, makes its production vehicle world debut at the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show.



The next major milestone in Toyota's ongoing, 40 year quest for sustainable mobility and the ultimate eco car, the Prius Plug-in Hybrid represents the latest development of the company's modular Hybrid Synergy Drive® (HSD) platform -credible, trusted and reliable full hybrid technology with a proven track record garnered over some 200 billion kilometres of driving worldwide.



The new Prius Plug-in Hybrid features a newly designed and more compact lithium-ion battery, developed to meet Toyota's rigorous standards for reliability. Its extended EV cruising range enables it to achieve remarkable fuel efficiency of just 2.2 l/100 km, and to lower CO2 emissions to an unprecedented 49 g/km.*



The Prius Plug-in Hybrid sets a new benchmark in environmentally-friendly mobility by offering customers commuting to urban areas the best of both worlds. It addresses the specific needs of urban-based customers with a significantly extended EV driving range for shorter journeys. The efficient hybrid powertrain's petrol engine awards the vehicle true long range capability whilst still returning the very low fuel consumption of the standard Prius. Moreover, the affordability of its proven HSD technology will make it widely accessible.



While Toyota continues to roll out Full Hybrid technology to new market segments through models such as the Auris and Yaris, the Prius itself remains a showcase for new technologies and further advances in HSD powertrain design, with Prius Plug-in Hybrid as its flagship.

Toyota shooting for Nurburgring EV Lap record on August 29

Toyota has reportedly announced it will attempt to smash the existing electric vehicle lap record at the famed Nürburgring Nordschleife on August 29.

The current electric vehicle lap record at the 'Ring stands at 9 minutes and 1.338 seconds, a time that Toyota says it has already beaten during informal testing. On August 29, Toyota will hit the track with a battery-powered two-seater that soars to a claimed top speed of 162 miles per hours, rips from 0-60 mph in 3.9 seconds and is loosely based on the radical Alpha-1 SRF, a vehicle developed by Toyota Motorsport GmbH for German firm e-Wolf.

Rob Leupen, Toyota Motorsport's director of business operations, told the Charging Point, "We are extremely confident we can break the record by some distance, which is an indication of how electric vehicle performance is continuously improving." Only time we tell if Toyota's attempt to tame the 'Ring blows a hole through the existing record, which is held by the spectalur Peugeot EX1.

Source: The Charging Point

Toyota and Tesla to Build RAV4 EV in Ontario Canada

Toyota and Tesla Motors confirmed today that their jointly-developed RAV4 electric vehicle will be built at Toyota Motor Manufacturing Canada in Woodstock, Ontario beginning in 2012.

“The Tesla-Toyota joint development team has agreed that building the vehicle at the Woodstock plant on the same line as the gasoline-powered RAV4, will streamline and simplify the production process and guarantee the highest level of quality control,” said Ray Tanguay, TMMC Chairman, who hosted Canadian officials at the plant today and thanked them for their support. “This is a great example of Toyota’s determination to collaborate with companies with leading edge technology.”

As previously announced, Toyota will pay Tesla approximately $100 million to supply the electric powertrain, which includes the battery, motor, gear box and power electronics for the RAV4 EV. Tesla will build the electric powertrains at its production facility in Palo Alto, California and then ship them to TMMC for final assembly into the vehicle.

The RAV4 EV will be sold at U.S. Toyota dealers through Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc. (TMS). Details including pricing, volume and regional distribution will be determined and announced at a later time.

In July of last year, Tesla and Toyota Engineering and Manufacturing, America (TEMA) collaborated to convert 32 conventional gas-engine RAV4 compact SUVs into fully functional RAV4 EV prototypes.

2011 Toyota Land Cruiser SUV Reviews

The only engine that's offered in the 2011 Toyota Land Cruiser is a brawny 5.7-liter V-8 engine rated at 381 horsepower and 401 pound-feet of torque. Many of the Toyota Land Cruisers normal-vehicle features are buffed up for use off-road or in extreme elements. Available options include a rear-seat entertainment system, Bluetooth hands-free calling, sonar-based backup, and rearview monitor system.

Toyota first unveiled its 8th and latest generation Land Cruiser for the 2008 model year. The new powertrain allows the Toyota Land Cruiser to tow 8,500 lbs -- up 2,000 lbs from last year.
Features include standard fog lamps, color-keyed power auto-dimming, heated outside mirrors with power folding, reverse tilt-down and memory features, full-time 4WD system with Active Traction Control (A-TRAC) and Torsen limited-slip center differential with locking feature, crawl control, hill start assist control, a power moonroof, 18-inch wheels, roof rack, running boards, tow hooks, mud guards and much more.

The 2011 Toyota Land Cruiser is an icon for Toyota, but it's also like a misfit at a high school dance. Both on- and off-road abilities are enhanced with Toyota's Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (KDSS), which automatically controls the front and rear antiroll bars depending on the driving conditions. As a large SUV, the 2011 Toyota Land Cruiser is a strong choice in the segment. At the same time, the Land Rover LR4 offers similar capabilities but is notably cheaper.

The 2011 Toyota Land Cruiser is a full-size luxury SUV available in just one well-appointed trim level.Most options are bundled into the pricey Upgrade package that includes a rear spoiler, a rear-seat entertainment system, a navigation system, real-time traffic update feature, a back-up camera, wood interior trim, heated second-row seats and a center console cooler box. The 2011 Toyota Land Cruiser is powered by a 5.7-liter V8 engine that produces 381 hp and 401 lb-ft of torque. It's paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and a full-time four-wheel-drive system with high- and low-range gearing.


Standard safety features include antilock disc brakes (with brake assist and multi-terrain programming), stability control, front and second-row side airbags, front knee airbags, full-length side curtain airbags and active front head restraints.

The 2011 Toyota Land Cruiser also receives Toyota's Safety Connect telematics system, which is similar to GM's OnStar, notifying emergency responders if the airbags deploy or if a severe rear-end collision is detected.

The 2011 Land Cruiser's interior is as refined as a Toyota gets, with high-quality materials and excellent fit and finish. Consequently, the Cruiser's maximum cargo capacity is modest at 82 cubic feet, which is a relatively small figure for a large SUV.

As with previous "Toyota Land Cruisers", the 2011 model has excellent off-road capability while still delivering a thoroughly comfortable ride on urban streets. When exploring the untamed wilds, the Toyota Land Cruiser crawl control takes much of the worry out of the hands (or feet) of the driver.

Toyota Targets at Least 16,000 U.S. Plug-In Prius Sales

Toyota said it expects U.S. sales of at least 16,000 plug-in Prius hatchbacks in 2012 after the model debuts early in the year.

The new version of the world’s best-selling hybrid, designed to be recharged at a standard 110-volt outlet, will go at least 13 miles solely on its lithium-ion battery pack, John Hanson, a Toyota spokesman, said in an interview. After that, it will operate like a standard Prius, averaging 50 miles per gallon of gasoline in city and highway driving, he said.

“We think it’s going to be a strong seller and we’ll deliver to whatever level the market wants,” he said yesterday. “We’re certainly on line to sell 16,000 to 17,000 in 2012.”

Toyota has dominated sales of alternative-power vehicles since it brought the Prius to the U.S. in 2000, selling 140,928 of the hybrids last year. The new version from the Toyota City, Japan-based company joins a market for rechargeable autos led this year by Nissan Motor Co.’s electric Leaf and General Motors Co. (GM)’s plug-in Volt.

The Leaf and Volt offer greater all-electric range, with as much as 100 miles for the Yokohama, Japan-based Nissan’s model and about 35 miles for the GM car. The Prius plug-in will have a pricing edge. Hanson said the new version will begin U.S. sales “very early” next year, without elaborating.

Toyota’s target is “reasonable, but the issue will be availability,” said Alan Baum, principal of automotive consulting firm Baum & Associates in West Bloomfield, Michigan. The Japan-built plug-in will also be in demand in Toyota’s home market and Europe, so U.S. supplies may be tight, he said.

Federal, State Incentives

Toyota expects the plug-in Prius to sell for $3,000 to $5,000 more than a standard version, which starts at $23,520, said Jana Hartline, a company spokeswoman.

The car should qualify for a federal tax credit of at least $2,500, Hartline said. While Toyota hasn’t begun a promotional campaign for the plug-in, 29,000 potential customers have “pre- registered” to buy one on the company’s website, she said.

In California, the plug-in Prius should also qualify for a $1,500 rebate and be allowed to use carpool lanes even with a solo driver, said Mike Ferry, program manager for the state’s Center for Sustainable Energy, which distributes the payments. The most populous U.S. state is requiring sales of plug-ins and battery-only autos starting in 2012 to reduce pollution.
Leaf, Volt Prices

Nissan said yesterday that 2012 model Leafs would cost $35,200 to $37,250, an increase of 7.4 percent and 10 percent from 2011 versions, to cover additional equipment. That’s before a $7,500 federal tax credit. Ferry said the Leaf also qualifies for a $2,500 California rebate in 2012 and carpool-lane access.

GM’s Volt costs $40,280, before the $7,500 federal tax credit. While the 2011 Volt didn’t qualify for California rebates, the Detroit-based automaker has said it will meet state requirements by 2012. That would let buyers get a $1,500 rebate and access to carpool lanes with a solo driver, Ferry said.

Toyota’s Hartline said the plug-in Prius’s “relatively small battery” doesn’t require 240-volt home chargers, which cost about $2,000 to install and may also require rewiring for older houses that can add a few thousand dollars in expenses.

“We’re finding in our research, from our demonstration program, that that is an appealing factor for many people,” said Hartline, who is based at Toyota’s U.S. sales unit in Torrance, California. The model recharges in three hours from a 110-volt outlet or as little as 90 minutes from a 240-volt charger, she said.

Toyota RAV4 EV Coming to Market in 2012

Recent reports have incorrectly stated that the 2012 RAV4 EV will only be marketed to fleet and car sharing programs. We’d like to set the record straight. The 2012 RAV4 EV will definitely be sold to the general public. We anticipate robust public interest in the RAV4 EV and are keen to inform consumers that their future vehicle options include a battery electric Toyota.

Toyota is the only manufacturer bringing two battery electric vehicles to the market in 2012 - the RAV4 EV and the Scion iQ EV. While the RAV4 EV will be available to the public, the Scion iQ EV will be marketed to fleet and car sharing programs only.

Multiple reports have been corrected on various automotive blog sites

Toyota

2011 Toyota iQ

On the 2008 Paris motor Show Toyota iQ is final production version of the revolutionary from Toyota Automaker.
2011 Toyota iQ powered by the 1.0-liter VVT-i and 1.33-liter Dual VVT-i petrol engines have been revised to meet Euro 5 emissions standards, with Toyota claiming the changes had no impact on performance or fuel efficiency. For interior with new grey and has been introduced, with contrasting black upper trims on the doors and toning fabric upholstery.

The 2011 model year Toyota iQ will come with no exterior modifications, with the changes being found inside the mini-vehicle. The iQ’s refreshed interior comes with new materials and fabrics. The vehicle’s side armrests come finished in a shiny satin, while the center console remains unchanged. The Toyota iQ was introduced in 2007 at the Frankfurt Auto Show and was created as the world’s most compact four-seat vehicle offering space for three adults and a child.

A new grey interior has been introduced, with contrasting black upper trims on the doors and toning fabric upholstery. A scarlet surround has been added to the centre console, toning with contrasting red stitching on the black leather steering wheel.

As an option, customers can select Kuru black leather upholstery on models with the new grey interior.

The Toyota Optimal Drive 1.0-litre VVT-i and 1.33-litre Dual VVT-i petrol engines which power iQ have been revised to meet Euro 5 emissions standards.

Toyota City smart homes to use EVs for standby power

The Toyota City Low-Carbon Society Verification Promotion Council, an organization of 26 entities, including Toyota City and private companies, has completed model smart houses*1 in the Higashiyama and Takahashi districts of Toyota City for testing energy-management systems and has started trial operations under the Verification Project for the Establishment of a Household and Community-based Low-Carbon City in Toyota City, Aichi Prefecture.

1. Project Description

The Verification Project is being conducted as a Next-Generation Energy and Social System Demonstration project (a five-year project running from 2010 to 2014) of the Japanese Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI). Toyota City was selected as a demonstration area for the Verification Project in April 2010 to support development of testing equipment and information systems. The key feature of the project is the pursuit of optimal energy use in living spaces at the community level.

1) Optimization of Household Energy Use
Household energy consumption is increasing. The Verification Project seeks to coordinate supply and demand within communities in conjunction with the use of both grid and renewable natural energy to achieve local production of energy for local consumption. Verification of distributed power supply from storage batteries and reduced carbon emissions from homes will be carried out, with the overall aim to reduce household carbon dioxide emissions by 20% (70% or more for smart houses).

2) Achieving Compatibility between Environmental Preservation and Resident Satisfaction
The Verification Project will predict and control energy consumption and support activities using an original energy data management system (EDMS) and home energy management system (HEMS). The aim is to maximize the use of renewable energy while achieving energy savings and conservation that maintains community quality-of-life levels and comfort.

3) Creation of Low-Carbon Traffic Systems
In addition to reducing the carbon dioxide emissions from road traffic through the introduction of plug-in hybrid vehicles (PHVs), electric vehicles (EVs), and fuel cell vehicles (FCVs), the Verification Project will use IT and ITS technologies to efficiently integrate motor vehicles and public transportation for commuting and other travel with the aim of reducing carbon dioxide emissions in the transport sector by 40%.

2. Verification of the Household and Regional Energy Sectors

This year, the Verification Project’s second year, marks the start of the testing phase for energy management at the household and community levels. Sales of the smart houses, where trial operation of the system will be conducted, began on June 3. The first phase of verification testing will begin in September at 14 of the smart houses.

In each house, a HEMS will link energy-generating devices (solar cells, fuel cells, etc.) and energy storage devices (household storage batteries, EcoCute heat-pump water heaters, etc.) in the home with next-generation vehicles (PHVs and EVs) and intelligent household appliances to optimize and make possible visualization of electric-power supply and demand and control of individual household devices. Storage batteries connected to and controlled by the HEMS will support low-cost and low-carbon energy consumption in the home and can serve as an emergency power source.

On the community level, the EDMS will coordinate the balance of the electric power supply and demand within the region by linking homes, convenience stores, schools, and the like with the aim of achieving local production of energy for local consumption by the community. For example, if a shortage of power generated by solar panels in the community is predicted, residents will be advised to limit their energy consumption, and eco-points will be awarded for conduct in accordance with those recommendations. Also, information concerning electricity usage and accumulated eco-points can be sent to specialized terminals, PCs and smart phones to encourage ongoing environmentally-friendly behavior that can be reasonably carried out.

In addition to charging PHVs and EVs from household electricity, V2H*2 (vehicle to home) supply of electric power from motor vehicle batteries to the home will also be tested. During normal times, vehicle batteries can store excess power from the home and from the community, contributing to efficient energy usage. And during emergencies, the batteries support regional energy autonomy by acting as mobile power sources.

List of Member Organizations and Businesses of the Toyota City Low-Carbon Society Verification Promotion Council (26 organizations as of June 30, 2011):
Aichi Prefecture, Toyota City and (in alphabetical order): Central Nippon Expressway Company Limited, Chubu Electric Power Co., Inc., Circle K Sunkus Co., Ltd., Denso Corporation, Dream Incubator Inc., Eneres Co., Ltd., Fujitsu Limited, Hewlett-Packard Japan, Ltd., KDDI Corporation, Mitsubishi Corporation, Nagoya Railroad Co., Ltd., Nagoya University, Secom Co., Ltd., Sharp Corporation, Systems Engineering Consultants Co., Ltd., Toho Gas Co., Ltd., Toshiba Corporation, Toyota Housing Corporation, Toyota Industries Corporation, Toyota Motor Corporation, Toyota Smile Life Inc., Toyota Tsusho Corporation, Yamato Transport Co., Ltd., Yazaki Corporation

*1Houses that contain an IT network of electrical appliances and other household equipment, solar panels, household storage batteries, onboard automobile storage batteries, and other devices, enabling household power leveling and optimized energy usage
*2Charging of PHV and EV batteries from household electricity and supplying electric power from onboard automobile storage batteries to the home

800 HP Toyota Celica fastest car at Goodwood

The 800HP Toyota Celica is based on the sixth generation Celica, tipping the scales at just 1,050 kg (2,315 lbs).

For better weight distribution, the driver’s position has moved back 12 inches, and the car’s centre of gravity has been lowered by raising the wheel arches and upper suspension mounts. A flat floor and rear diffuser add a degree of ground effect. Super soft rallycross specification Michelin slick tyres also played an important role in getting all that horsepower to the ground.

Power comes from an engine taken from a World Rally Championship winning Corolla, newly fitted with a Rotrex supercharger. A nitrous oxide injection system helped reduce turbo-lag for quicker acceleration off the line, while super soft rallycross specification Michelin slick tires also brought their contribution to the feat.






Press Release

TOYOTA CELICA FASTEST CAR AT GOODWOOD 2011

Taking just 48.07 seconds to blast up the 1.6 mile driveway of Goodwood House, a 800bhp Toyota Celica was the fastest car overall at Goodwood Festival of Speed, 2011.

To win the Celica had to beat many famous racing cars, including recent Formula 1 cars.

The car was driven and built by former British Rally Champion, Jonny Milner. Milner had narrowly missed out in previous years and returned in 2011 with an extra 100bhp to clinch the FTD (fastest time of the day) in front of a massive crowd swelled by the presence of stars such as F1 champion Lewis Hamilton.

Rising over 300ft from the start line to the finish, the course is very technical and challenging, putting the skills of the world's very best drivers and riders to the ultimate test of concentration and speed.

A small mistake by former British Rally Champion Milner meant he narrowly missed winning the televised "shootout" on Sunday afternoon, but his time set earlier in the day was the fastest of all 200 cars over the prestigious three day event.

Based on the sixth generation Celica, Milner's car is super-lightweight, tipping the scales at just 1,050kg. For better weight distribution, the driver's position has moved back 12 inches, and the car's centre of gravity has been lowered by raising the wheel arches and upper suspension mounts. A flat floor and rear diffuser add a degree of ground effect.

The engine is from a World Rally Championship winning Corolla, newly fitted with a Rotrex supercharger that will help raise maximum output to more than 800bhp. A nitrous oxide injection system helped reduce turbo-lag for quicker acceleration off the line. Super soft rallycross specification Michelin slick tyres also played an important role in getting all that horsepower to the ground.

Engine type Corolla WRC four-cylinder, 16-valve
Displacement (cc) 1,998
Turbocharger Garrett GT35/42
Supercharger Rotrex, belt-driven
Engine management Motec
Compression ratio 9.7:1
Max. power (DIN hp @ rpm) 700 @ 5,700 at 2bar boost
>800 with nitrous oxide boost
Fuel tank capacity (l) 15
Weight (kg) 1,050
Transmission Mactrack 5-speed manual with Fensport triple-plate clutch
Suspension (front & rear) Reiger Corolla WRC 3-way adjustable dampers,
Brakes Front 343mm and rear 295mm Corolla WRC ventilated discs with Alcon callipers
Wheels 18in

2012 Toyota Camry hybrid Price

2012 Toyota Camry hybrid was redesigned kicks off seventh-generation Camry style, automobile style deceive standard parlayed into a large attractiveness outside the standard. Toyota automobile is that the Toyota Camry, 2012, this can be the most effective family automobile nowadays. for it please you to ascertain data concerning the total specifications of 2012 Toyota Camry hybrid here.

Expect V-6 version to come back in 2012 Toyota Camry and stored at approximately 268 horsepower. Four-cylinder 2012 Camry longer be offered with six-speed manual transmission.
Toyota Camry Hybrid includes dual-stage front, side chairs, side-curtain, and driver’s knee airbag is standard throughout the lineup of Toyota Camry Hybrid. In addition to basic limited warranty coverage standard Toyota Camry Hybrid, Toyota Camry Hybrid Sedan is equipped with a warranty 8-year/100, 000 for hybrid-related components.

The Toyota Camry Hybrid base Price is $20,300 – $29,900. 2012 Toyota Camry Hybrid
Toyota Camry Hybrid – This car was first introduced in 2007 in America and with Toyota’s Hybrid Synergy Drive feature that makes the Toyota Camry Hybrid cars have become the most efficient fuel.

Safety features on the Toyota Camry Hybrid includes dual-stage front, side chairs, side-curtain, and driver’s knee airbag is standard throughout the lineup of Toyota Camry Hybrid. Toyota Camry Hybrid equipped with Toyota’s Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM) system that controls throttle response, brake application on the individual and the steering wheel even a small correction, if necessary.

Toyota Camry Hybrid uses the revised procedures for the EPA estimates, mileage Camry Hybrid’s slot in at 33 mpg city, 34 mpg highway and 34 mpg combined. In addition to basic limited warranty coverage standard Toyota Camry Hybrid, Toyota Camry Hybrid Sedan is equipped with a warranty 8-year/100, 000 for hybrid-related components.

Automakers Forecasted to Lead the United States Market in 2011

 

General Motors wants to be the plug-in leader with the Chevrolet Volt, a plug-in hybrid with 40 miles of electric range and 500 miles per gasoline fill-up range. Chevrolet will deliver over 10,000 in 2011. GM has a complete Voltec Propulsion System roadmap that envisions added offerings of pure battery-electric, E85, and diesel. The second plug-in offering from GM is likely to be a Chevrolet Crossover SUV. Look for a range versus cost battle with Toyota, as the Volt achieves more electric range by adding to vehicle cost with a 16kWh battery.
Nissan will be the first automaker to put over 10,000 pure battery-electric cars on U.S. highways. 20,000 have made deposits for Nissan Leaf and several cities are in major partnerships. The LEAF can be purchased starting at $32,780 or $349 per month. The Nissan LEAF is battery-electric with a 100-mile range per charge. LEAF Test drive. This 5-door, 5-seat, hatchback has the right size and range for many who drive under 100 miles daily, or for households with more than one car.

Ford will be selling at least two electric cars by the end of 2011 and five models by the end of 2012. The best seller will be the Ford Focus Electric, a battery-electric that we expect to aggressively compete with the Nissan Leaf. Ford will be taking orders for a 2012 C-MAX Energi plug-in hybrid, an exciting Crossover SUV that seats 5. In the future, the Ford Focus available any way the customer wants it: battery-electric, plug-in hybrid, hybrid, or fuel-efficient sedan. Ford is already selling the Transit Connect Electric compact van.
 
Tesla is the first to sell 1,000 electric cars for the U.S. highways. Tesla owners are the first to put 10 million electric miles on the road. Like its Roadster, the company is going zero to sixty in less than four seconds. Tesla is also developing a roomy Model S hatchback that starts at $57,400, about half the price of the Roadster. The Roadster is battery-electric with a 240-mile range; the Model S will have remarkable electric range options of 130 to 300 miles per charge. Tesla is working with shareholder Toyota to bring back the Toyota RAV4 EV, an electric SUV. Tesla is working with shareholder Daimler to put Smart EDs on U.S. streets this year. In the future, the Tesla Model X will be a Crossover SUV for those that want more premium styling and interiors than alternatives from Chevrolet, Ford, and others.
 
Fisker Karma is a luxury sports plug-in hybrid with prices starting around $90,000. With 20kWh of lithium batteries, you could go 50 miles before the 2L turbo engine is engaged. The Karma invites you to accelerate, using two electric motors that deliver 403 horsepower, so your mileage may vary. In theory it’s a 4-seater; good luck fitting someone in the back seat. The Karma is about sex appeal, performance, and luxury. A more affordable family sedan is planned for 2012.

Toyota, world-leading seller of hybrids, will offer both plug-in hybrids and pure battery electric cars. The Prius Plug-in Hybrid (PHV) looks like another Prius until you spot the J1772 plug for smart charging. Six hundred PHV are in fleet trails from cities to car sharing services. Next year, you can order the Prius PHV. Toyota will initially control costs by only using a 5kWh battery for a 14-mile electric range. In 2012, Toyota is likely to also offer the RAV4 EV SUV and a pure battery-electric FT-EV small city car.
Honda is preparing the Honda Fit EV and a plug-in hybrid for sale in the U.S. in 2012. The Fit EV is in demonstration program in fleets such as Google and Stanford University. We speculate that the new EV will use Blue Energy lithium-ion batteries and will price below $29,900.

Mitsubishi is currently the electric car market leader in Japan with the iMiEV.
In 2012, the U.S. version of the Mitsubishi I will price at less than $29,900. This fun-to-drive 5 door, 4 seat hatchback, will have a wheel base 5 inches wider for the U.S. market, but the micro-compact will still be able to get those precious city parking spaces that no other car can take except the Smart. The more powerful U.S. version will have an electric range of 50 to 80 miles with a 16kWh lithium battery.
 

 Daimler is bringing the Smart Fortwo ED to the United States. 250 Smart Fortwo ED will be put into U.S. test this year using Tesla battery packs, but smart is currently targeting the 2013 model year for the first commercial electric car. It will start taking consumer and fleet orders in 2012. Daimler also owns 5 percent of Tesla. Mercedes hybrids. BMW will accelerate electric plans in a couple of years. Mercedes is putting into fleet tests two 5-seat hatchback electric cars – the A-Class E-CELL battery-electric car with 120-mile range and the B-Class F-CELL, which adds a hydrogen fuel cell to double the range.
 
Think has been selling its smaller battery-electric City car in Europe for years. With new capital from EnerDel, Valmet, and Kleiner Perkins, Think hopes to have its financial struggles in the rear view mirror and be on U.S. roads within a year.

 

 

 

U.S. Electric Car Forecast

Accenture forecasts 1.5 million electric vehicles in the United States by 2015. Over 10 million electric vehicles are possible by 2020, especially if oil prices continue to rise as battery prices fall. Single electric utilities have scenarios for charging over one million electric vehicles in their own service area by 2020. With renewable energy investment required of utilities in 30 states, these utilities are most interested in night time charging of electric vehicles with wind, geothermal, and hydropower. Utilities are also implementing smart grids and incentives for off-peak charging.
By 2011 year-end, competition will be intense for electric car leadership. The above Top 10 describe our best guess about the market share leaders for delivered plug-in vehicles on the United States roads in 2011. Battery-electric vehicles, plug-in hybrids, and electric vehicles with range extended by engines or fuel cells were all considered.
Over 100 competitors will be fighting for U.S. share by the end of 2012. Some may be struggle to get significant share due to the time and cost of safety and other regulatory approvals, delays in funding, unpleasant surprises from a battery, drive system, or component supplier. It’s a tough business. Even Tesla had to add 700 pounds and two years to get the first Roadsters in customers’ hands.

Asia Prepares for the U.S. Market

For three years, we have read about China’s plans to bring electric cars to the U.S. Although China’s U.S. ambitions have slipped badly, its automakers cannot be ignored. China has over 100 million light electric vehicles, e-bikes and e-scooters in daily use. It’s new 5-year plan calls for 100 million electric charging stations in China by 2020. BYD, with gold-plated investors such as Warren Buffett, has only put a few hundred electric vehicles on the road in China and continues to delay introduction to the United States. CODA’s $45,000 sedan continues to seek DOE loans and more investors and has delayed sales until Fall 2011, or later. Volvo, now owned by China’s Geely has the new C30 Drive E Electric. I was impressed with my test drive, but the Volvo electric car will be selling only in Europe in the short-term. SAIC, Chery, and hundreds of players are also preparing EVs for Chin
India might bring us a Maharinda Reva or Nano EV that under prices everyone, but not this year which is the basis for this Top 10 Report.

European Innovation

By 2020, Europe with higher fuel prices and fewer oil subsidies, is forecasted to have more electric cars by 2020 than the U.S. Better Place may deliver 100,000 of the Renault Fluence with its switchable battery to Israel, Denmark, and other countries. Volkswagen may teach everyone how to extend range by making vehicles light. The concept Up Light weighs just over 1,500 pounds, but it’s only a concept. I loved test-driving the Volkswagen Golf Blue E-Motion, but don’t plan on buying it in the U.S. before 2014. You will likely be able to buy the Audi E-Tron sooner. BMW’s first U.S. electric car commercial offering, the Megacity Vehicle, may be a hit in 2013. For fun in the city in 2013, the Fiat 500 EV may be what you want. In other words, there is a lot of European innovation that did not make this Top 10 List, which focuses on the U.S. market for the next 12 months.
Please bookmark this Top 10 List and check back as we update. Exciting new electric cars are being driven on the U.S. streets and freeways. Nissan is an early mover with battery-electric cars and General Motors with plug-in hybrids. Competition will start to heat-up with offerings from Ford, Toyota, Honda, and dozens of Asian, European and American innovators. The winner will be the customer.
Source : cleanfleetreport.com

Toyota to Show New GRMN Hybrid Concept at Nurburgring

Toyota Motor Corporation (TMC) will show the "GRMN (GAZOO Racing1 tuned by MN2) SPORTS HYBRID Concept II", a convertible mid-ship gasoline-electric hybrid concept, at the 39th Nürburgring 24-hour endurance race to be held near Nürburg, Germany, from June 23 through 26.

The GRMN SPORTS HYBRID Concept II is an updated version of a gasoline-electric sports concept shown at Tokyo Auto Salon 2010 and has been developed to embody the enjoyment of automobiles. The vehicle features advanced styling and an improved sports-hybrid AWD system with the main power unit (gasoline engine, rear-wheel drive motors and transmission) located in the middle of the body and a front-wheel drive motor in front—all positioned to improve maneuverability, enhance driving enjoyment and provide enhanced stability. Meanwhile, top-down driving in electric-vehicle mode gives a fresh and exhilarating driving experience.

TMC launched the world's first mass-produced gasoline-electric vehicle in 1997, and has long conducted active research on applying hybrid technologies to racing and sports cars. The GRMN SPORTS HYBRID Concept II is positioned as the next step in the evolution of these efforts.

GRMN SPORTS HYBRID Concept II Details

Engine	Type	2GR-FXE
	Displacement	3,456 cc
	Maximum output	183 kW (249 PS)
System	Maximum output	220 kW (299 PS)
Body	Length	4,350 mm
	Width	1,890 mm
	Height	1,200 mm
	Wheelbase	2,575 mm
	Weight	1,500 kg or less
Vehicle layout		Mid-ship with front electric motor
Tires	Front	225/40R19
	Rear	255/35R19

 

24 Hours Nürburgring Race Outline

Name	39th ADAC Zurich24h-Race 2011
Dates	June 23 through 26, 2011 (main competition runs from June 25 through 26)
Venue	Nürburgring (Nürburg, Ahrweiler, State of Rhineland-Palatinate, Germany)