Toyota is expected to bring production of its hydrogen fuel-cell sedan forward to the end of this year, after repeatedly saying that the car wouldn’t be available until later in 2015. The prototype FCV sedan was previewed at last year’s Tokyo motor show (above). Toyota hasn’t confirmed the change in launch date but the Japan Times newspaper is quoting sources as saying it … [Read more...] about Toyota brings forward production date for hydrogen fuel-cell car
Toyota
May sales: Suzuki Swift the most popular new car
The Suzuki Swift was the best-selling new passenger car in New Zealand in May, trumping long-time front-runner the Toyota Corolla. There wasn’t much in it, the Swift (above) and Corolla each sharing four per cent of the segment but Swift recording 272 registrations to Corolla’s 241. In third place was the Mazda CX-5 with 230 units, a continuing reflection of the strong SUV … [Read more...] about May sales: Suzuki Swift the most popular new car
Toyota axes all-electric plans, aims to advance hybrids and fuel cells
Toyota is turning away from a 20-year effort to build a viable battery-electric vehicle in favour of advanced petrol-electric hybrids and, later, hydrogen fuel cells. The Japanese company has ended its 2010 deal with America’s electric-car company Tesla Motors to supply batteries over three years for 2600 all-electric Toyota RAV4s. Its North American CEO Jim Lentz said … [Read more...] about Toyota axes all-electric plans, aims to advance hybrids and fuel cells
Recall sucks out $800 million from Toyota’s bank balance
The recall by Toyota of around 6.4 million vehicles worldwide might be precautionary, but it will slash an estimated NZ$800 million off the carmaker’s first quarter profit, say investment analysts in the United States. Toyota won’t fit all the bill – it will share it with its suppliers, including its affiliated company Aisin Seiki, which made the potentially faulty seat rails … [Read more...] about Recall sucks out $800 million from Toyota’s bank balance
Slow-speed all-wheel-drive system for new Toyota Prius
The next-generation Toyota Prius will get all-wheel-drive for the first time when it breaks cover next year – but the carmaker has retained the high rear end, low front and smooth roofline styling, essential to maintain the slippery 0.25Cd drag coefficient. Toyota has gone to great lengths to disguise test mules, one pictured here by spy agency Automedia and draped in heavy … [Read more...] about Slow-speed all-wheel-drive system for new Toyota Prius