TOYOTA FT-BH CONCEPT: TAKING EFFICIENCY TO NEW HEIGHTS

FT-Bh – Future Toyota B-segment hybrid

New concept designed for maximum fuel efficiency, built using economically viable methods and materials

CO2 emissions around 50 per cent lower than the current average for the supermini segment

Focus on five principal factors: low weight, aerodynamic performance, powertrain efficiency, thermal energy management and electricity saving

World debut at the Geneva motor show

Toyota's FT-Bh concept breaks new boundaries in small car efficiency. It's as spacious as an average five-door supermini, but produces about 50 per cent less CO2, and tipping the scales at under 800kg, its weighs less than a three-door Aygo.

These feats have not been achieved by using exotic materials or expensive techniques: from the outset Toyota determined that the FT-Bh would be made using commonplace, economically viable production methods and technologies, including a down-sized full hybrid powertrain.

Toyota took a "total vehicle" approach, focusing on five areas of design and engineering to gain the highest fuel efficiency and lowest emissions: weight reduction, optimum aerodynamic performance (achieving a 30 per cent gain), powertrain efficiency, thermal energy management and electricity saving.

The FT-Bh concept makes its world debut at the Geneva motor show, at 10.15am on 6 March.

 

Courtesy of Toyota

Marvel & Toyota Yaris Present: The Incredible Drive, Part 3

In the third installment of a special four-part Marvel Super Heroes: What The--?! Adventure, our heroes stumble across a cozy roadhouse en route to Cleveland in their Yaris. Once inside, it's all fun and games until they bump into their arch-nemeses. Well, even then, it's mostly still fun and games.

This Week in History: February 21st, 1948 - NASCAR founded

On this day in 1948, the National Association for Stock Car Racing--or NASCAR, as it will come to be widely known--is officially incorporated. NASCAR racing will go on to become one of America's most popular spectator sports, as well as a multi-billion-dollar industry.

The driving force behind the establishment of NASCAR was William "Bill" France Sr. (1909-1992), a mechanic and auto-repair shop owner from Washington, D.C., who in the mid-1930s moved to Daytona Beach, Florida. The Daytona area was a gathering spot for racing enthusiasts, and France became involved in racing cars and promoting races. After witnessing how racing rules could vary from event to event and how dishonest promoters could abscond with prize money, France felt there was a need for a governing body to sanction and promote racing. He gathered members of the racing community to discuss the idea, and NASCAR was born, with its official incorporation in February 1921. France served as NASCAR's first president and played a key role in shaping its development in the sport's early decades.

NASCAR held its first Strictly Stock race on June 19, 1949, at the Charlotte Speedway in North Carolina. Some 13,000 fans were on hand to watch Glenn Dunnaway finish the 200-lap race first in his Ford; however, Jim Roper (who drove a Lincoln) collected the $2,000 prize after Dunnaway was disqualified for illegal rear springs on his vehicle. In the early years of NASCAR, competitors drove the same types of cars that people drove on the street--Buicks, Cadillacs, Oldsmobiles, among others--with minimal modifications. (Today, the cars are highly customized.)

In 1950, the first NASCAR-based track, the Darlington Raceway in South Carolina, opened. More new raceways followed, including the Daytona International Speedway, which opened in 1959. Lee Petty won the first Daytona 500, which was run on February 22 of that year. The Daytona 500 became NASCAR's season opener and one of its premiere events. Lee Petty's son Richard, who began his racing career in 1958, won the Daytona 500 a record seven times and became NASCAR's first superstar before retiring in 1992. On February 18, 1979, the first live flag-to-flag coverage of the Daytona 500 was broadcast on television. An end-of-the-race brawl between drivers Cale Yarborough and Donnie and Bobby Allison was a huge publicity generator and helped boost NASCAR's popularity on a national scale.

In 1972, France's son, William France Jr., took over the presidency of NASCAR from his father. Over the next three decades, the younger France (1933-2007) was instrumental in transforming NASCAR from a regional sport popular primarily in the southeast U.S. into one with a global fan base. France led NASCAR into a new era of lucrative corporate sponsorships and billion-dollar TV contracts. Today, NASCAR has three national series as well as four regional series and two international series. The organization sanctions over 1,200 races at 100 tracks across North America.

Courtesy of History.com

Toyota teases another hybrid ahead of Geneva

Toyota will reveal a concept car that's a study in affordable production of ultra-lightweight and fuel-efficient hybrid vehicles.

Toyota appears to be doubling down on its hybrid bet. In addition to the world premiere of the Toyota Yaris hybrid, the auto manufacturer will show off a new affordable hybrid city car at the 2012 International Motor Show in Geneva next month. The company released a sketch of the concept before the reveal.

You may think that the pint-sized Yaris Hybrid and the Prius C should already count as city cars, but it appears that Toyota has something even smaller and lighter up its sleeve. Not much has been shared about the car in advance of the world premiere, but the manufacturer says it is a study of an ultra-lightweight vehicle that can be manufactured affordably without using exotic and expensive materials. The FT-Bh concept will demonstrate how a hybrid city car can be mass-produced using materials and processes already used in the automotive industry.

Courtesy of CNET

Marvel & Toyota Yaris Present: The Incredible Drive, Part 2

2011 TOYOTA RAV4 BASE 4X2

Dealer	Advantage Toyota
Class	SUV
MSRP	$25,292
INTERNET PRICE	$23,499.00*
Stock #	11562
Model #	4430

Year	2011
Color	PACIFIC BLUE METALLIC
Interior Color	OAK
Engine	2.5L INLINE 4
Transmission	4 SPEED AUTOMATIC
VIN	2T3ZF4DV1BW096867   Click here to view full listing

Toyota Prius C starts at around $19,000

With Toyota's new member of the Prius family set to start arriving at US dealerships in March, the company is hard at work gearing up for the release.

And as the delivery logistics are being worked out, the service manuals printed and the hype machine shifting into high gear, Toyota  is putting the very final tweak on the Prius c — its window mounted price sticker.

The company recently announced manufacturer's suggested retail prices for the five-door hatchback, a smaller, sportier Prius that Toyota sees as the "gateway into the Prius Family."

Expect to pay $18,950 for the standard version of the car, which includes automatic climate control, tilt-telescopic steering wheel with audio, climate, multi-information display and Bluetooth hands free phone controls; and remote keyless entry. You'll also get nine airbags, anti-lock brakes and traction control.

Of course, there are plenty of options. Aside from the standard, stock version of the Prius C, Toyota will also offer three other versions of the car (cleverly named two, three and four), with various degrees of high-tech and luxury gizmos.

Upgrade to the Prius C Two ($19,900) and you'll be treated to a 6-speaker audio system, variable intermittent windshield wipers, a 60/40 split fold-down rear seat with adjustable headrests, cruise control, engine immobilizer, center console with armrest and storage compartment, and a cargo area tonneau cover.

The Prius C Three ($21,635) will see a host of technology upgrades including a 6.1-inch touchscreen for audio and navigation, USB ports with i-Pod connectivity, a host of apps and even push-button start.

The company's high-end model, the Prius c Four ($23,230) adds 15-inch, 8-spoke alloy wheels, heated front seats, color-keyed heated power outside mirrors with turn signal indicators, and integrated fog lamps. Optional equipment for the Prius c Four includes 16-inch, 8-spoke alloy wheels with 195/50R16 tires and power tilt telescopic moonroof with sunshade.

Updated, sporty looks and heated seats aside, the real draw of the new Prius is its economy. With an EPA-estimated city fuel economy rating of 53 mpg, Prius c offers the highest city mpg rating of any vehicle without a plug. The car will get and 46 mpg on the highway, for a combined rating of 50 mpg.

 

Courtesy of TG Daily

Your Monday Maintenance Tip: Five Simple Ways to Save Money on Gas

1) Replace the fancy gasoline with low-octane fuel
In filling up your car , make sure to buy the lowest grade of gasoline. However, choose the most appropriate gas for your automobile. Knowing which fuel works best for your car is always located in your owner's manual. Look it up.
Filling up your car with premium gasoline, even if it can be filled with low-octane fuel, is just a waste of money. Besides, not buying the high-octane gasoline won't boost your car's performance, anyway.

2) Remember to tighten the gas cap
Gas naturally evaporates from your car when the gas tank has an escape. According to the statistics, over 145 million gallons of gas evaporate yearly due to missing, damaged and loose gas caps. Why be one of those careless car owners? Tighten those gas caps now.

3) Air conditioning and shade
During summer, the intense sun can evaporate fuel instantly and make the insides of your car burn your skin up. For this reason, parking your car in the shade can be an effective gas-saving routine.
Besides, once you've parked your car in a shady place, using the gas-hogging air conditioning can be counted out. Just remember that air conditioning can drag your car's fuel economy by 10 to 20 percent.

However, when air conditioning is necessary, cool your car down by opening the windows, vents and sunroof. Turning on the air conditioning at full blast once you go into your car will definitely waste your money and gas.

4) Engine Care
A car that is out of tune or failed an emission test can drag your gas mileage down to up to 4 percent. Regular tune-ups as well as spark plug and air filter replacements can provide your car with over 30 percent of fuel efficiency.

5) Fast Cars with good mileage
Buying cars with a good mileage is probably the most important tip in saving money on gas. To know which car provides good gas mileage, check with an unbiased car dealer.

Believe it or not, these five simple routines can stretch up your gas dollar. Try it now and let it become your daily habit.

 

Courtesy of Fast Lanes

Toyota Announces Return of '100 Cars for Good' Program in 2012

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Will Award 100 Vehicles to 100 Nonprofits in 100 Days – with Winners Selected by the Public

Registered 501(c)(3) organizations are invited to apply online with details on how a new car would help them achieve even more for their local communities

Applications open on March 12, 2012 at http://www.facebook.com/toyota

 

CHICAGO (February 9, 2012) – At the Chicago Auto Show today, Toyota announced the return of its “100 Cars for Good” program. For the second straight year, Toyota will award 100 vehicles over the course of 100 days to 100 U.S. nonprofits, with winners selected through public voting on the Toyota Facebook page. Applications for the program will open on March 12, 2012 at http://www.facebook.com/toyota. />
The announcement was made by Michael Rouse, vice president of philanthropy and community affairs for Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., who was accompanied by some of the nonprofits that received vehicles in last year’s 100 Cars for Good program.

“At Toyota, we appreciate what a big difference a new car can make for organizations working to improve lives and strengthen communities across the country, and we are thrilled to have this opportunity to lend a hand,” said Rouse. “Over the last 20 years, Toyota has contributed more than half a billion dollars to nonprofits throughout the U.S. 100 Cars for Good allows us to build on that commitment in important, new ways by making the public an integral part of these efforts and harnessing the power of social media to expand awareness and galvanize support for organizations that are having such a tremendous impact in neighborhoods nationwide.”

A 2011 winner of a new Toyota Sienna, the Chicago Zoological Society, also spoke at the announcement.

“We are very appreciative of this tremendous donation from Toyota,” said Stuart Strahl, Ph.D., president and CEO of the Chicago Zoological Society. “The new van has been invaluable in our efforts to bring our conservation and informal science education programs to under-resourced communities throughout Chicago and the suburbs. Our dedicated staff travels year round to these communities, inspiring families to gain an appreciation of nature and wildlife, not only globally, but also in their own backyards. We have also used the minivan to transport young students to the zoo and field locations as part of the Society’s award-winning Youth Volunteer Corps.”

In communities across the country, vehicles from the first year of 100 Cars for Good are making a significant difference. These include:

• Ensuring that a soup kitchen in Morristown, New Jersey can pick up food donations that used to be turned away due to a lack of transportation, allowing it to provide meals and food to even more people in need;
• Helping a program near Detroit provide horseback riding visits for kids with cancer; and
• Supporting the efforts of a nonprofit in Wilmington, North Carolina to train and deliver service dogs to wounded veterans.

Applying for the 2012 100 Cars for Good Program
Beginning March 12, 2012, registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations can apply online at http://www.facebook.com/toyota. Finalists will be eligible to win one of six Toyota models, including the Camry Hybrid, Highlander, Prius v, Sienna minivan, Sienna Mobility or Tundra full-sized pickup truck. A six-year, 100,000-mile powertrain warranty will also be provided for each vehicle, compliments of Toyota Financial Services.

The 100 Cars for Good application process will last for two weeks, or until 5,000 applications are received. Of these, 500 finalists will be selected and then certified by an independent panel of judges who are experts in the fields of philanthropy and social responsibility. Each finalist can then submit a video that will be featured on the Toyota 100 Cars site explaining how a new vehicle would help support its work. In addition, Toyota will be providing each of the finalists with communications and social media tools and training to assist their efforts to raise awareness for their organization.

Public voting will begin in May, with the exact date to be announced later, and will continue for 100 consecutive days. Each day, five organizations will be profiled at http://www.facebook.com/toyota and participants may vote for the charity they feel is most deserving of a vehicle.

The four runners up every day will each be awarded a $1,000 grant from Toyota.

100 Cars for Good is the first Toyota initiative that engages the public to determine how corporate philanthropic donations will be awarded. To learn more please, visit www.facebook.com/toyota.>

 

Courtesy of Toyota

Your Monday Maintenance Tip: Car Battery Life

Your car's battery is the heart of its electrical system and the chief cause of winter weather start-up woes. In cold weather, the battery loses about half its strength while the demands on the battery increase. Low temperatures reduce the battery's engine-cranking power, and by thickening the engine oil, they also make it more difficult for your engine to turn over. Cold fuel doesn't vaporize well, which adds to the difficulty.

Almost all private and public vehicles that we see on major and provincial roads use battery for their electrical needs. Radio, lights, horn and the ignition system is dependent on the battery which is a component of the vehicle’s electrical system.

Some may be wondering why the vehicle’s battery doesn’t drain off quickly despite continuous and repeated use. This is because vehicles have their own charging system composed mainly of the alternator and voltage regulator. The charging system ensures that the battery is continuously charged every time the engine is running.

The most common type of battery vehicles use is the lead acid-type battery. These types of batteries have lead and lead oxide plates submerged in about 35 percent sulfuric acid and 65 percent water solution, creating a chemical reaction. The product of this chemical reaction is electricity.

Most often than not, drivers put tap water on batteries, unaware of its negative effects. Tap water has minerals that can ruin battery function, which would eventually slow down the electricity generation. It is necessary to use distilled or de-mineralized water only on batteries to prevent break down.

Care for car battery

The battery is one of the most important parts of the vehicle that needs continuous check-up and maintenance. It is important to know the appropriate care to extend its operating life and at the same time, proper handling to prevent accidents.

Here are some important tips to consider in battery maintenance:

• First, wear eye, hand protection and the proper clothes are worn if you are going to personally check your battery. Remember, battery contains acid and protective gears can shield you from the corrosive chemicals inside the battery. When battery is mishandled, it may cause burns or more serious injuries. Once you are fully-geared, place the battery properly and make sure that it’s stable, not shaking or rocking when mounted, to avoid any short circuit.
• Check the terminals where the battery cables connect to be sure they are tight and free of corrosion. If corrosion is present, get a qualified technician to clean the terminals.
• The plates must always be submerged in water (distilled or de-mineralized) inside the battery but never over-fill your battery. The water level must not go below the recommended level to prevent rapid deterioration of battery plates. Fill to 1/4" below bottom of split ring (1 1/2" below top). Water should be added after charging. Filling before charging can cause the battery electrolyte to bubble over during charging. If plates are exposed, however, add enough water to cover the plates by 1/8" before charging.
• Don’t use sulfuric acid in refilling the battery, it is recommended to use water only for refilling. The sulfuric acid inside more or less remains the same throughout the battery life. (Some batteries do not require water refilling because they are sealed. These are commonly known as maintenance-free batteries.)
• Change the battery in case you happen to see any cracks, vents or swelled battery casing. Most likely, your battery is gradually failing and replacement is inevitable.
• Also, always make sure that the battery is always clean. Even a small amount of dirt can cause “power leak” causing uncontrolled discharge and electricity loss.
• Make sure the battery is firmly secured to its mounting bracket. An unsecured battery that shifts around can become damaged, and possibly cause short circuits. All exposed metal parts of the terminals and cables should be greased to prevent future corrosion.
• Aside from the battery, you must also check the electrical wirings and cables to ensure that there are no stray strands or damaged insulation (leading to exposed wires) that may cause electrical leaks and short circuits.
• Batteries come in many different sizes. When replacing a car battery, make sure you choose the right size for your car. When it comes to car batteries, bigger is not always better.
• The terminal clamp of the cable must be kept clean. Use a simple solution of baking soda and water in cleaning the terminal clamp especially when you notice the accumulation of white powdery substance around the electrodes. There are times the engine would not start if the battery terminal is corroded.
• In removing or cleaning the battery, remove first (-) ground cable followed by the (+) cable. If you are going to reinstall the battery, the (+) cable must be put first before the (-) ground cable. In this way, we can avoid short circuit if the wrench accidentally touches the grounded part of the vehicle.
• Use warm water and a mild detergent to remove grease and dirt from the plastic surface of the battery. This is important because a layer of dirt can actually act as a conductive agent, causing the battery to constantly discharge slightly.
• Do your part in protecting the environment by simply returning used batteries to battery shops for recycling. Recycling is one good way to reduce pollution.
• Your mechanic can load-test your battery to see if it is capable of sufficient charge on below-freezing days.  Replace it if it does not pass the test.
• “The battery is literally the life spark of your car,” says Dave McMullen, director of marketing at EnerSys, makers of Odyssey Dry cell Batteries. “Your automotive winterizing routine should include a full check up and cold-weather prep for your car battery.” If you live in climate that is excessively cold, think about obtaining a battery or engine heater. The heater will help the battery start the car by reducing the power necessary.
• Read your owner's manual before disconnecting your battery to ensure that computer or radio memories are not lost. You may need to enter a password to get these components functioning again. These passwords are normally included with the owner's manual packet that came with your vehicle.
• Always disconnect the battery before doing anything else. Remove the cable from ground first, which is usually the negative terminal. This disconnects the battery from the car’s entire electrical system and minimizes the risk of causing sparks. Then remove the positive terminal connection. Never use a screwdriver to pry off stuck-on battery cable terminals because you could damage connections inside the battery post. Instead, use a battery puller tool to remove cable terminals.
  

  Recharging guidelines for maximum life

  • Recharge immediately after each use
  • Use battery charger matched to the battery's size
  • Do not overcharge; an automatic charger that turns off or on with a timer is your best bet
  • Always slow charge a deep cycle battery; never fast charge or boost charge it
  • A 10-12 hour charge with the appropriate charger at the correct amp rate will usually bring your battery to a full state of charge from a deep discharge

    
    Courtesy of SmartMotorist.com

Toyota Camry 2012 Big Game :60 Commercial - It's Reinvented

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Toyota will be giving away two brand-new 2012 Camry vehicles – one to the contest winner and one to their friend

 

•      January 31^st to February 5^th through Super Bowl halftime – Camry giveaway entry period

•      “Connections” allows for contest entry by one of two methods: by viewing the spot online and using Shazam with the ad when prompted or by filling out an entry form online (www.toyota.com/camryeffect).>  Participants can enter to win once a day leading up to the debut of the broadcast commercial, and when the commercial airs live on Super Bowl Sunday Feb 5^th. The contest winner will be notified the night of February 5^th.