Toyota Hybrids Are Getting More Popular

The population of hybrids is on the rise globally, and Toyota/Lexus seems to be leading the pack. While it might not be the only company that manufactures and sells hybrids, their models are by far the most popular.

According to Toyota/Lexus, they have sold just over 3.03-million hybrid vehicles as of February 28, 2011. Since nearly all Toyota and Lexus vehicles have a hybrid version, it’s not hard to see why, although the Prius is the stand-alone segment leader.

Now it seems that the number of hybrids will grow even further, with the introduction of a new version of the Prius coming later this year, along with the new Lexus CT200h.

So have you caught the hybrid bug yet? Let us know in the comments below.

Press release after the jump:

Worldwide Sales of TMC Hybrids Top 3 Million Units

In the face of rising fuel prices, with the launch of the all-new 2011 Lexus CT 200h and the impending introduction of the Toyota Prius family of vehicles, interest in Toyota and Lexus hybrid vehicles is on the rise, just as Toyota surpasses an important global sales milestone.

Today, Toyota Motor Corporation (TMC) announced global cumulative sales of its hybrid vehicles have topped the 3-million mark, with more than 3.03 million units1 sold worldwide as of February 28, 2011.

In 1997 in Japan, TMC launched the “Coaster Hybrid EV” in August and launched the “Prius”—the world’s first mass-produced hybrid vehicle—in December.  Sales of the Prius began in North America, Europe and elsewhere in 2000.  Next came the second-generation Prius in 2003 and the expanded use of TMC’s hybrid system on such vehicles as minivans, SUVs, rear-wheel-drive sedans and hatchbacks.  The third-generation Prius went on sale in May 2009, and the global cumulative sales of TMC’s hybrid vehicles topped 2 million by the end of August the same year (42,289 of those sold in Canada).

This year, TMC continued to expand its hybrid vehicle lineup, launching the Lexus “CT 200h”—the first dedicated hybrid model in the premium-compact segment—in January.  TMC currently sells 16 hybrid vehicle models in approximately 80 countries and regions around the world, including three commercial vehicle models in Japan.  TMC plans to introduce 10 new-model hybrid vehicles by the end of 2012, including six newly launched vehicles and 4 vehicles that have been redesigned.  TMC is committed to augmenting this lineup even further and increasing the number of countries and regions in which it sells hybrid vehicles.

As of February 28, 2011, TMC calculates that TMC hybrid vehicles2, since 1997, have led to approximately 18 million fewer tons3 of CO2 emissions—considered to be a cause of climate change—than would have been emitted by gasoline-powered vehicles of similar size and driving performance.

Positioning response to environmental issues as a management priority and based on its belief that environment-considerate vehicles contribute only through their widespread use, TMC has endeavored to achieve the widespread use of hybrid vehicles.  With global cumulative sales of its hybrid vehicles passing the 3-million mark, TMC believes that such vehicles are starting to enter the mainstream.

TMC intends to continue to dedicate itself—in all directions—to developing and popularizing other environment-considerate cars in addition to gasoline-electric hybrid vehicles.  Having positioned hybrid technologies—consisting of the component technologies necessary for development of various environment-considerate cars—as key technologies, TMC plans to continue working to further raise performance, reduce costs, and expand its product lineup to create vehicles that are popular with consumers.

2:39 AM | 0 komentar | Read More

S'pore not affected by halt in Japanese car production

LOCAL ARMS of several Japanese car makers have begun assessing the possible impact of the disaster abroad to their operations, with some noting supply links to affected towns while others with production hubs concentrated in Southeast Asia sounding more upbeat.
This, after Toyota Motor Corp., Honda Motor Co. Ltd., and Nissan Motor Co. Ltd. suspended production in Japan in the aftermath of the earthquake and subsequent tsunamis, according to Fitch Ratings.

Toyota Motor Philippines Corp., which imports five models from Japan to sell here, said it has begun studying the supply situation while local units of Honda and Nissan said they were generally insulated from the disasters.

“We are still getting information from the head office in Japan at this time. We’re still investigating,” Rommel R. Gutierrez, vice-president for management services and corporate planning of Toyota Motor Philippines, said in a phone interview yesterday.

Units that are being imported from Japan include Rav 4, Hiace, Previa, Alphard and Lexus, Mr. Gutierrez said, while locally manufactured vehicles are Vios and Innova.

Toyota Motor had suspended production in all its factories in Japan until yesterday and estimated to have foregone the assembly of 40,000 units, according to Fitch Ratings.

The rating firm, which deferred immediate changes to credit scores of the automotive firms, said in a statement that the disaster “will likely have negative short-term impact on the production and shipment activities of the Japanese automakers” as well as steelmakers.

Honda Cars Philippines, Inc., in contrast, was confident it will not be affected by the disasters abroad.

“As of now, we have no problem,” Honda Cars Philippines President Hiroshi Shimizu said at the sidelines of a car launch late Tuesday.

Mr. Shimizu said models namely Accord, CRV and Jazz are being imported from Thailand while Civic and City are made locally.

He even said that Honda Cars Philippines expects sales to grow 5% this year from 2010, matching the industry growth forecast of 4%-5%.

Honda Cars Philippines’ total sales in 2010 were estimated at 16,600 units.

Nissan Motor Philippines, Inc. (NMPI) for its part said in a statement that “manufacturing facilities remain operational and will continue normal production schedules.”

“In general, NMPI’s supply is not affected by the recent events. We are operating with a sufficient supply of vehicle and after-service parts stock on the ground,” it added.

Only Teana is being imported from Japan while Sentra 1.3L and 1.6L, Sentra200, Grand Livina, X-TRAIL 2.0L and X-TRAIL CVT are assembled here, the car maker said.

Honda’s and Nissan’s operations here thus contrast with headquarters abroad where factories where shuttered and even damaged.

Six of Nissan’s facilities in Japan have reported some damage to their buildings or equipment, including the Iwaki Plant (Iwaki City, Fukushima Prefecture), Tochigi Plant (Kawachi County, Tochigi Prefecture), Yokohama Plant (Yokohama City, Kanagawa Prefecture), Oppama Plant (Yokohama City, Kanagawa Prefecture), Zama Operations Center (Zama City, Kanagawa Prefecture) and Honmoku Wharf (Yokohama City, Kanagawa Prefecture), NMPI said.

The Tochigi and Iwaki plants will suspend operation until tomorrow, while Oppama, Kyushu, Shatai and Yokohama plants had suspended operations until yesterday.

Honda, meanwhile, is suspending production at all factories in Japan until March 20. The output loss is estimated at 4,000 vehicles a day, according to Fitch Ratings. Its production in Japan had reportedly accounted for more than a quarter of total global production.

“Although only a few automakers such as Toyota Motor and Nissan Motor had manufacturing presence in the areas directly affected by the earthquake and the subsequent tsunamis, almost all automakers and some steelmakers suspended operations after the quake to assess the potential impact on their operations,” Fitch Ratings said.

“While immediate damages to the plants and equipment might be limited, production and shipments could be affected by potential disruption in the supply chain, logistics and electricity supply,” it said.

2:37 AM | 0 komentar | Read More

Toyota Alphard 3.5L Ramaikan Indonesia Market

Although marketed since 2003 in a state built up and through the general importer (IU), Toyota Alphard success. Tub sales roasted peanuts, to the extent that the MPV from Japan is noted not only as a prestigious vehicle. But the family has become a symbol of stability.

Indeed, official figures penjualaan every month or per year does not exist. However, estimated at more than 1,000 units already in the hands of consumers. Knowing the magnitude Alphard has been teasing enthusiasts PT Toyota Astra Motor (TAM), as the sole agent for Toyota Alphard bring the second generation in the line up their ranks.

If nothing gets in the way, the MPV that will be displayed at the Indonesian International Motor Show in July in Jakarta Covension Center (JCC).

The second generation that will be imported Alphard this form does not change the total of its predecessor model. Nor does the FT-MV seektrem when appearing at the Tokyo Motor Show last year.

But the new Alphard is sitting on a new platform. High body is still inferior to the old one, but cabin space is actually higher because of the position 55 mm lower floor.

In his native State, had a twin named Alphard, Vellfire that comes with the philosophy of power and innovation. This can be seen from the figure of a sporty look with the design of the main light-rise model.

Do not ask about the comfort of the cabin. There are a number of gimmick features are capable of making even business class passengers envious. Like the Toyota Premium Sound with 18 speakers or executive power seat equipped foot rest.

For there are two engine options, the 2400 cc 4-cylinder as the old model with 167 hp power. Then the 3500 cc V6-powered 276 hp that has proven its worth in the Camry 3.5Q.Sedang Super CVT transmission available-I for 4-cylinder model and the Super ECT 6-speed for the V6 variant.

The variant that will be included TAM 3500 cc version with full spesifikasai. The selling price has not been announced, but estimated to be around Rp1, 1 billion. Medium Alphard 2.4 full option from IU pegged at Rp. 775 million

9:20 AM | 0 komentar | Read More

Alphard From Korea

Hyundai is going on display at the Indonesia International Motor Show (IIMS), namely Hyundai H1 and New AVEGA. Both an elevator fice, but who would have thought all the way to Sentul City, H1 ogled many people because of its shape, especially from the front similar to the Toyota Alphard.

Hyundai H1 that we feel this type of XG, while the previous generation GLS and Elegan.Platformnya still the same with the two predecessors, who only recently with 9 passengers with middle seats, both in the front, middle and back can be folded. then the middle row seats and rear sliding model.

Others in the interior is almost the same, except the monitor screen increased to 5, four in the head rest front and middle row bench. one more on top of the head unit can display the GPS, complete with average speed. only sound the hum of tires is heard in the ears, may try to replace other brands.

From the exterior figure, PT Hyundai Mobil Indonesia (HMI) as the Hyundai car manufacturers in this country try to add a body kit, starting from the front like the bumper and grille, and side skirts and rear bumper. When viewed from the front with a little distance away, Hyundai H1 is similar to Alphard.

During the trip, try to observe the interior. There are several devices that are controlled from the driver. Like the middle of the cabin lights, if passengers forget to turn off, can be turned off by the driver. as well as AC. Then saaat about parking, not fear because the object hit the back equipped with camera sensors.

Kompas.com could also be inside the cabin sedan Hyundai, New AVEGA. Although only a face lift, but it looks more sweet because. As an integrated grille and bumper, combined with fog lights. While the rear, the design of small wings decorated with spoilers under the lights, so more cool.

While the interior, no updates. Unless custter center carbon constrained motif, but not black but silver. So also in the opener. Door trim black leather that are attached to the chair.

9:19 AM | 0 komentar | Read More

Toyota Alphard Only Sell One variant

The news of PT Toyota Astra Motor (TAM) will market the Toyota Alphard, is no longer the issue. But it will become a reality and launching two days before the event Indonesia International Motor Show (IIMS), precisely on 9 July. TAM marketing director, Joko Trisanyoto explain the same time participate TAM plans IIMS, Alphard is ready to enliven the Indonesian market with a capacity of  3500 cc.

Why are marketed rather than engine capacity of 2.4L? "Because in Japan itself, under 3,000 cc should not be exported. Still for the domestic kepentingnan. But we bring specnya internationally, including Indonesia,"said Joko. The price, estimated to range from Rp1, 1 billion with the automatic transmission.

For this initial phase, "We do not yet include many variants because of its import tax is quite expensive. Later when the EPA agreement (kerjasana Indonesia-Japan) has been signed, then the variant Alphard included,"added Widyawati. The EPA stated one of them, car-mopbil imported above 3000 cc and get dried import costs. "We have not received juklaknya,"said Wiwid - Widyawati familiar greeting.

About the EPA is, obviously Joko Trisanyoto already signed the minister. "But we have not seen the details," said Joko. Like the Lexus will experience price declines, dong. "Yes, do not signifikanlah. Haragnya previously been adjusted. Even if the import tax is 15% gone, ATPM has not been to. Because the increase of raw materials such as steel up to 50%.

9:18 AM | 0 komentar | Read More

TAM Launches Toyota Alphard

Before the show in Indonesia International Motor Show (IIMS) 2008, PT Toyota Astra Motor (PT TAM) introduced one of primadonanya, Toyota Alphard. 3500 cc engine, MPV (Multi Purpose Vehicle) offers several features.

The launch vehicle with first class facilities was attended by the President Director of PT TAM Johny Darmawan and Vice President Director of PT TAM Shinji Fujii in the Ballroom of the Ritz Carlton Hotel, Jakarta, this afternoon. The entry of Alphard 3.5L because according to the EPA (Indonesia-Japan agreement) which frees the cost of importing 15 percent for cars with a capacity above 3500 cc.

As is known, this premium car sales in Indonesia are handled by the general importer, not from an authorized dealer of PT TAM. "It just launched now because we are seeing market share in Indonesia are great for this variant. Data from the general importer that I know, sales here have reached 150-200 units of the two engines 2400 cc and 3,000 cc. We look pretty good this marketnya , "said Johnny in Kompas.com.

Regarding the target market Alphard, say, on sale this month of about 30 units. "But we targetin that much, now that order is 50 units," he said.

The car that has a upper middle-class image was marketed at a price of Rp 1.1 billion. For those who want to do credit must deposit advances of about USD 100 million. "Indeed, in terms of DP, we are higher than other importers. But do we have after-sales service that is not owned by them," he explained.

Johnny said the region's most lots sold for these products are usually in four big cities like Jakarta, Bandung, Surabaya and Medan. "If the market for Jakarta was the largest at 80 percent, and the remaining three other major cities," said Johnny.

Excess Alphard provide driving comfort as a first class seating area for seven people, facilities, DVD, air conditioning and ECO driving indicator Plasmacluster environmentally friendly. In terms of security, Alphard comes with SRS Airbag System, HID (headlights), AFS (lights when the car turns) and the rear camera.

Another advantage, the new engine capacity of 2.4L and 3.0L with more efficient use of gasoline by 7 percent, though his body is big. Additionally, sales collateral for Alphard, marketing communications manager said Achmad Rizal, the advantages offered by this product than other competitors.

9:16 AM | 0 komentar | Read More

Jaguar, Alphard, and Mercy Owned Pak Minister

Want to know what cars are owned by the Minister of the Interior (Interior Minister) Mardiyanto, Minister of Justice and Human Rights (Menkumham) Andi Mattalata and Attorney General Hendarman Supandji? There's Jaguar Daimler, Toyota Alphard, Mercedes-Benz to Ford Escape.

Cars owned by Mr. Minister and Attorney General of this, also reported in the state administrators wealth (LHKPN) who announced their own with Antasari Ashar accompanied by Chairman of Commission on Building Commission, Jakarta,

Mardiyanto who have the greatest wealth at $ 10.3 billion, recorded a four-car valued at USD 1.229 billion. Namely, the Honda Accord the year of manufacture 1999 with the price of Rp 178 million obtained by way of grants. There is another made the 2004 Toyota Crown purchased alone for Rp 700 million, the Ford Escape in 2004 for Rp 150 million and made the 1998 Mitsubishi Galant worth USD 201.735 million, which has now been granted.

Andi Mattalata that replace Hamid Awaluddin, was noted to have three cars worth USD 1.055 billion. Total assets amounted to USD 7.411 billion Andi. Three cars are Opel Ophitra year of manufacture 2004 for USD 155 million, Daimler Jaguan made in 1997 with a price of Rp 450 million and year of manufacture 2006 Toyota Alphard worth USD 450 million.

Hendarman Supandji the total wealth reached USD 3.476 billion, having two cars for $ 320 million. That is Mercedes-Benz A140 year of manufacture 200 worth USD 210 million, the Toyota Vios in the manufacture of 2005 for USD 110 million. Two previous Hendarman car that Suzuki Vitara in 1993 for Rp 50 million and Toyota Kijang SSG year of manufacture 1997 worth USD 90 million have been sold.

Despite having expensive cars, the ministers and the Attorney General is now in charge must use the official car of the Toyota Camry has been made uniform purchased when President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono was the first time in 2004.

9:14 AM | 0 komentar | Read More

Toyota Alphard 3.5L Ramaikan Indonesia Market

Although marketed since 2003 in a state built up and through the general importer (IU), Toyota Alphard success. Tub sales roasted peanuts, to the extent that the MPV from Japan is noted not only as a prestigious vehicle. But the family has become a symbol of stability.

Indeed, official figures penjualaan every month or per year does not exist. However, estimated at more than 1,000 units already in the hands of consumers. Knowing the magnitude Alphard has been teasing enthusiasts PT Toyota Astra Motor (TAM), as the sole agent for Toyota Alphard bring the second generation in the line up their ranks.

If nothing gets in the way, the MPV that will be displayed at the Indonesian International Motor Show in July in Jakarta Covension Center (JCC).

The second generation that will be imported Alphard this form does not change the total of its predecessor model. Nor does the FT-MV seektrem when appearing at the Tokyo Motor Show last year.

But the new Alphard is sitting on a new platform. High body is still inferior to the old one, but cabin space is actually higher because of the position 55 mm lower floor.

In his native State, had a twin named Alphard, Vellfire that comes with the philosophy of power and innovation. This can be seen from the figure of a sporty look with the design of the main light-rise model.

Do not ask about the comfort of the cabin. There are a number of gimmick features are capable of making even business class passengers envious. Like the Toyota Premium Sound with 18 speakers or executive power seat equipped foot rest.

For there are two engine options, the 2400 cc 4-cylinder as the old model with 167 hp power. Then the 3500 cc V6-powered 276 hp that has proven its worth in the Camry 3.5Q.Sedang Super CVT transmission available-I for 4-cylinder model and the Super ECT 6-speed for the V6 variant.

9:12 AM | 0 komentar | Read More