2 12 月, 2022

TOYOTA GAZOO Racing Launches GR Corolla Sales Efforts with Lotteries in Japan

TOKYO, Dec 2, 2022 - (JCN Newswire via SEAPRWire.com) - TOYOTA GAZOO Racing (TGR) commenced its sales efforts today for the Japanese-market trim levels of the new GR Corolla--the GR Corolla RZ and GR Corolla RZ "MORIZO Edition" (GR Corolla Morizo Edition)(1)--with purchasing lotteries that run to December 19 for GR Corolla RZ and December 18 for GR Corolla Morizo Edition. Sales of both models are slated to start in early 2023.GR Corolla RZWhen the GR Corolla RZ was unveiled on June 1, TGR announced that the model would go on sale through Toyota vehicle dealers throughout Japan. However, continuing COVID-19 infections and the semiconductor shortage prompted a switch to an online purchasing lottery for an initial 500 units, with additional sales to be considered while monitoring the production situation. For the GR Corolla Morizo Edition, which is a two-seater model with enhanced driving performance, purchasing lottery applications for 70 units can be made at GR Garage locations nationwide(2).The GR Corolla was developed by putting into practice the concept of making ever-better motorsports-bred cars, emphasizing honing cars to win races and making them commercially available. TGR will continue to evolve the GR Corolla by reflecting the knowledge that it gains in its continued participation in motorsports.(1) The official name of the GR Corolla Morizo Edition is the "GR Corolla RZ 'MORIZO Edition". Also, as a customized vehicle, units must be submitted for physical inspection for first-time registration.(2) Purchasing lottery applications are not available at the GR Garage FUKUROI previously owned vehicle specialty storeFor more information, visit https://global.toyota/en/newsroom/toyota/38317830.html. Copyright 2022 JCN Newswire. All rights reserved. (via SEAPRWire)

2 6 月, 2022

TOYOTA GAZOO Racing Premieres Japanese-market GR Corolla RZ and 2-seater, Enhanced-performance GR Corolla Morizo Edition

Toyota City, Japan, Jun 1, 2022 - (JCN Newswire via SEAPRWire.com) - TOYOTA GAZOO Racing held the world premiere today of the GR Corolla RZ and GR Corolla Morizo Edition. The GR Corolla RZ is the Japanese-market trim level of the all-new GR Corolla unveiled in April. The GR Corolla Morizo Edition, which was announced simultaneously in the United States, is a trim level aimed at achieving "an untamed energy that captivates customers" and "a driving taste that excites and that powers the urge to keep on driving" and was discerningly crafted, with Toyota Motor Corporation (Toyota) President and Master Driver Akio Toyoda, a.k.a. Morizo, directly behind the wheel of development prototypes. The GR Corolla RZ is scheduled to go on sale this fall through Toyota vehicle dealers nationwide, and the GR Corolla Morizo Edition is scheduled to be available in limited quantities through GR Garage locations nationwide from this winter, with a reservation lottery for it planned to start this fall(1).Ever since arriving on the scene in 1966, the Corolla has helped elevate Toyota, including playing an active role ever since Toyota's early days of participation in motorsports, with the TE25 Corolla earning Toyota's first World Rally Championship(2) victory in 1973 and the Corolla Levin winning the 1,000 Lakes Rally(3) in 1975. The Corolla's driving performance has been embraced by many customers, and the model has evolved with the times into a station wagon and SUV, among others, to become a versatile choice throughout its customers' life stages. The recently premiered GR Corolla sprang to life based on the strong desire of President Toyoda to "absolutely prevent the Corolla--especially because it is widely loved--from becoming a simple commodity and bring back a Corolla that captivates our customers".The development of the GR Corolla carried forth the torch of making ever-better motorsports-bred cars, which focuses on honing cars to win races and making them commercially available. While under development, the GR Corolla was fitted with a hydrogen engine and raced in the Super Taikyu Series(4) to comprehensively hone a hydrogen engine, which comprises new technologies, as well as the car. Also, to pursue an untamed energy that captivates customers, a team of professional drivers, in-house evaluators, engineers, and mechanics, centered on Master Driver Toyoda, rigorously put the car through its paces on a variety of roads. This enabled the developers to expose defects and repeatedly make improvements, culminating in a car that interacts with the driver and powers the urge to keep on driving.GR Corolla Morizo Edition, a two-seater with enhanced driving performanceThe GR Corolla Morizo Edition was developed based on President Toyoda's discerning resolve to achieve an untamed energy that captivates customers. Thorough weight reduction, increased engine torque, and optimized transmission gear ratios, combined with improved cornering execution through the use of monotube shock absorbers and high-performance tires, have achieved enhanced dynamic performance for a driving taste that excites and that powers the urge to keep on driving.GR Corolla Morizo Edition vehicle overview (comparison with the GR Corolla RZ)- Removing the rear seat to create a two-seater has reduced weight by approximately 30 kilograms.- Maximum torque has been increased from 370 Nm to 400 Nm, and acceleration performance has been improved by increasing torque in the mid-rpm range.- Body rigidity was further strengthened by applying an additional 3.3 meters of structural adhesive and adding body reinforcement braces.- Lower-geared differential gears and the use of closer ratios for the first, second, and third gears have improved dynamic performance and provided a pleasing sensation of gear engagement.- High-grip tires, widened by 10 mm, improve cornering stability and braking performance.- Exclusive semi-bucket seats hold the body firmly for accurate driving even when the driver is subjected to considerable g-forces due to improved driving performance.Door trim ornamentation, the instrument panel, and others in cast-black paint coalesce with an Ultrasuede(5)-upholstered steering wheel and center console to give the sporty interior a touch of class.The exterior color is an exclusive Matte Steel, and the front windshield bears Morizo's signature as a testament to the unique and discerning approach to creating the GR Corolla Morizo Edition.(1) Details on the limited number of units to be available and the reservation lottery procedure are to be provided at a later date via the following URL: https://toyotagazooracing.com/gr/corolla/(2) The Press On Regardless rally held in the United States(3) The current Rally Finland(4) Participation using a hydrogen engine-equipped Corolla in the Super Taikyu Series started in 2021 with Round 3 under the banner of ROOKIE Racing. Toward realizing motorsports that are carbon-neutral and sustainable, the goal is to hone, through motorsports, hydrogen engine technologies, which represent a new power source option(5) Ultrasuede is a registered trademark of Toray Industries, Inc.For more information, visit https://global.toyota/en/newsroom/toyota/37344924.html. Copyright 2022 JCN Newswire. All rights reserved. (via SEAPRWire)

1 4 月, 2022

TOYOTA GAZOO Racing Premieres GR Corolla

Toyota City, Japan, Apr 1, 2022 - (JCN Newswire via SEAPRWire.com) - TOYOTA GAZOO Racing (TGR) held the world premiere of the all-new GR Corolla in Long Beach, California, USA, on March 31 (local time), on the eve of the opening round of the Formula Drift(1) season. The GR Corolla is scheduled for launch in Japan in the second half of 2022.The all-new GR Corolla (North America specifications, prototype)The unveiling of the GR Corolla can be seen at the following: https://vimeo.com/event/1928953Through such achievements as the TE25 Corolla earning Toyota Motor Corporation's (Toyota's) first WRC victory(2) in 1973, followed by the Corolla Levin's win in the 1,000 Lakes Rally(3) in 1975, the Corolla laid the foundation for TGR's concept of "making ever-better motorsports-bred cars" and is a model loved by many for its driving performance. The GR Corolla sprang to life based on the strong desire of Toyota President Akio Toyoda, a.k.a. Morizo, to "bring back a Corolla that captivates our customers".In response to that desire, the development of the GR Corolla carried forth the torch of making ever-better motorsports-bred cars, which focuses on honing cars to win races and making them commercially available. In concrete terms, the vehicle was comprehensively reforged in the extreme environment of racing by participating in the Super Taikyu Series using a hydrogen engine-equipped Corolla(4) to also refine a hydrogen engine, which comprises new technologies, with Toyota Master Driver Morizo, himself, taking stints behind the wheel. Furthermore, to ensure that the vehicle could be driven with confidence and enjoyment in a variety of situations, prototypes were put through their paces not only on racing circuits but also on highly demanding dirt roads and snow-covered roads. Driving was done beyond the breaking point for comprehensive honing by drivers who each have unique perspectives, including Morizo, racing driver Hiroaki Ishiura, All Japan Rally Championship winner Norihiko Katsuta, and in-house evaluators.The GR Corolla boasts a strengthened version of the 1.6-liter in-line three-cylinder intercooler turbo engine found in the GR Yaris, resulting in a maximum output of 224 kW (304 PS). Optimizing the GR-FOUR 4WD system, which is also featured on the GR Yaris, to match the specifications of the GR Corolla was among various initiatives undertaken to create a car that can be safely and securely controlled even when pushing it to its limits.While adopting the basic body framework of the Toyota Corolla Sport to enable it to inherit the high-speed stability of a long wheelbase, the GR Corolla employs a 60 mm wider track up front and an 85 mm wider track in the rear to command a high level of cornering performance. The result: sporty driving at will with peace of mind. And to complete the package, the GR Corolla retains a five-door, five-passenger layout for both exceptional usability in daily life and driving pleasure.Since its birth in 1966, the Corolla has evolved throughout its generations into a variety of sedans, wagons, hatchbacks, and SUVs to meet the changing lifestyles of Toyota customers over time. With the GR Corolla joining the lineup as a sports car packed tight with driving performance and functionality ready to be embraced by many customers, the Corolla series will keep on continuing to evolve.Main features of the GR CorollaA motorsports-bred design refined into functional beautyExteriorWhile the basic body framework of the Corolla Sport has been adopted, 20 mm wider front fenders and 30 mm wider rear fenders produce a broader stance that foreshadows a spirited driving experience.The triple exhausts of a muffler created to further increase the output of the 1.6-liter in-line three-cylinder intercooler turbo engine emphasize the unique, powerful, and sporty rear.Honing the vehicle's cooling and aerodynamic performance on all kinds of roads, including racing circuits, dirt roads, and snow-covered roads, resulted in the inclusion of a front-bumper air intake and front-fender and hood-bulge air outlets.InteriorA short-stroke shift lever positioned for natural operation by simply lowering the arm from the steering wheel enables quick gear changes.A hand-operated parking brake has been used to allow better vehicle control even when pushing the car to its limits, such as when drifting.The Full TFT Meter, which was developed exclusively for GR models, has been newly adopted. Inspired by race cars and reflecting insight from professional drivers, the new display improves visibility during sporty driving.An evolved version of the GR Yaris 1.6-liter in-line three-cylinder intercooler turbo engineEngine exhaust efficiency was improved to achieve even higher output from the same compact, lightweight, high-power unit that propels the GR Yaris. A valve-equipped triple-exhaust muffler reduces both exhaust pressure and noise. In sum, the engine provides overwhelming acceleration and a more-pleasant extension of RPMs.A wide track and long wheelbase for excellent driving stability and controlThe basic body framework of the Toyota Corolla Sport has been adopted, and, while retaining the excellent driving stability provided by a long wheelbase, high-speed cornering performance has been improved by widening the track by 60 mm up front and by 85 mm in the rear. Stability and control during sporty driving have been greatly enhanced, allowing confidence and enjoyment while driving as one pleases, even when pushing the car to its limits.A selectable-mode GR-FOUR 4WD system and a high-rigidity bodyThe featured GR-FOUR 4WD system uses an electronic multi-plate clutch to provide variable front and rear driving force, like in the GR Yaris. This time, however, the system's "4WD" mode, which controls driving force distribution, and its "Drive" mode, which controls accelerator response, steering, and others, have been separated to enable selection according to driver preference and the driving environment. Furthermore, the use of pillow-ball bushings and the optimization of the springs, shock absorbers, and wheel alignment combine to fully transmit the GR-FOUR's optimal distribution of driving force to the road surface. This has resulted in overwhelming cornering performance.Body rigidity has been strengthened to achieve driving performance that agilely responds to driver operation. In addition to the high-rigidity basic framework made possible through production at the GR Factory at Toyota's Motomachi Plant, braces have been added between the rear wheel wells, to the under-floor tunnel, and under the floor in front of the fuel tank to improve handling stability. Also, like in the case of the GR Yaris, the roof panel is made of CFRP(5) molded by the SMC(6) process, which offers a high degree of freedom of shape and contributes not only to increased rigidity but also to weight reduction.Opposed caliper disk brakes provide stable braking force and controllability, enabling confident and enjoyable driving, even on racing circuits.Advanced safety and security even for a sports carThe latest active safety package, Toyota Safety Sense, comes standard, allowing the combination of safety and security in daily driving and the driving pleasure of a sports car.(1) A production-car-based drift series held in various locations around the United States. In the 2022 series, TGR will compete with four cars in total: the GR Corolla (one unit), GR86 (two units), and GR Supra (one unit).(2) The Press On Regardless rally held in the United States(3) The current Rally Finland(4) Toward realizing motorsports that are carbon-neutral and sustainable, the vehicle is aimed at honing, through motorsports, hydrogen engine technologies, which represent a new power source option. Participation using a hydrogen engine-equipped Corolla in the Super Taikyu Series started in 2021 with Round 3 under the banner of ROOKIE Racing.(5) Carbon fiber reinforced plastic(6) Sheet molding compound(7) Torsen is a registered trademark of JTEKT Corporation.For more information, visit https://global.toyota/en/newsroom/. Copyright 2022 JCN Newswire. All rights reserved. (via SEAPRWire)

14 9 月, 2021

Toyota to Launch All-New Corolla Cross

Toyota City, Japan, Sep 14, 2021 - (JCN Newswire via SEAPRWire.com) - Toyota Motor Corporation (Toyota) has announced that it will launch the all-new Corolla Cross today, on September 14, 2021.Since the launch of the first-generation in 1966, the Corolla series has continued to evolve and embrace new challenges based on the "plus alpha" concept, via which it seeks to exceed both the expectations of customers around the world and the needs of the times. In addition to the sedans, wagons, and hatchbacks that currently populate the line-up, the Corolla series has at various points featured a diverse range of models unencumbered by preconceived notions of body or style, with the goal of catering to ever-changing customer lifestyles. Today, the Corolla series is sold in more than 150 countries and regions around the world, and in July 2021 it achieved some cumulative sales of 50 million units.The all-new Corolla Cross inherits the "plus alpha" concept of previous generations of the Corolla series, as well as its mission of "staying close to customers and continuing to evolve." The first-ever SUV Corolla model was born, aiming to offer a new innovative and expansive form for the new demands of the age. It combines the spacious interior and outstanding utility characteristic of an SUV with powerful performance and superb fuel efficiency.Details of the all-new Corolla Cross areas follows.1. The outstanding utility of an SUVa. Comfort that takes full advantage of its high body styleThe all-new Corolla Cross combines superb visibility with ample head clearance, ensuring that passengers in every seat can spend every journey--from urban rides to long drives--in comfort. The front seats provide a high viewpoint expected of an SUV, while slender front pillars and an uncluttered instrument panel result in a cockpit with a full field of view and easily accessible controls; the rear seats are conveniently accessed through large rear side doors and, since they can be reclined, they promise superb comfort and convenience. The Panorama Roof(4) helps realize an outstanding sense of spaciousness: its large glass surface provides views of the sky to passengers in every seat, expanding their scope of vision, while the motorized retractable shade allows control over the amount of sunlight entering the vehicle.b. Convenient luggage space with a variety of layoutsThe all-new Corolla Cross offers some of the best luggage capacity in its class, with 487 liters(5) available even when seating five. Folding the rear seats further expands the luggage area, providing sufficient space even for carrying road bicycles. The large luggage door is set at a height of 720 mm above-ground, to make it easier even for shorter users to load and unload luggage; the Hands-free Power Back Door(6)--operated simply by carrying a key and placing one's foot under the rear bumper--allows the back door to be opened and closed even when both hands are full. The highly functional Luggage Active Box(7) has been specially designed for the Corolla Cross; it allows users to store luggage out of sight, while its lid can be shut flat to open up more luggage space. It thereby offers the potential for a wide range of luggage space layouts.2. A design that combines urban luxury with SUV excitementa. Commanding, powerful exteriorThe all-new Corolla Cross has been designed to be "urban and active," with the dynamism and sophistication of an SUV. Its commanding, urban proportions are rooted in a contrast between its relaxed upper body--including glass surfaces, and front and rear lights--and its wide, stable bumpers. The vehicle is available in a total of eight colors that accentuate its urban and sophisticated design.b. Luxurious, spacious interiorFrom the instrument panel to the door trim, the interior exudes a sense of continuity which contributes to an expansive interior space. LEDs are used for all cabin illumination, helping to achieve an interior that is luxurious and sophisticated, but casual at the same time. Sporty front seats feature slim backs and provide outstanding support(8).3. Class-leading fuel efficiency and a smooth yet dynamic ridea. Powertrains that deliver a pleasing and intuitive rideBoth the hybrid and gasoline versions of the all-new Corolla Cross are equipped with optimized 1.8-liter engines.The car responds reliably to accelerator operation, and gains speed in a smooth, pleasing manner. The hybrid versions deliver class-leading fuel efficiency of 26.2 km/L(2); their E-Four electric 4WD systems not only contribute to superb fuel efficiency, but also ensure consistent behavior both when accelerating and when driving on snow or other slippery surfaces.b. High-rigidity body for superb steering stability, and suspension designed for a supple, comfortable rideThe Corolla Cross combines a fully developed GA-C platform with a lightweight, high-rigidity body frame to provide nimble and stable steering in a manner that belies its tall vehicle height. Sound-absorbing materials have been optimally distributed to reduce engine noise and road chatter, and help improve the comfort and quietness of its cabin. As for suspension, MacPherson struts are used for the front on all Corolla Cross grades. 2WD grades feature newly developed torsion beams and large rubber bushings in the rear, a combination that delivers outstanding road-holding on uneven roads, coupled with a luxurious ride. E-Four grades are fitted with a double wishbone setup in the rear, which has been continually developed over previous generations of Corollas, with optimized arm mounting points for exceptional stability and responsiveness. The minimum turning radius of the Corolla Cross is just 5.2 meters(9), ranking among the smallest in its class, facilitating maneuvers on narrow roads and in car parks.4. Advanced safety and security featuresa. The latest active safety packageAll grades of the all-new Corolla Cross come equipped as standard with the latest edition of Toyota Safety Sense, providing driving support in all aspects of everyday usage scenarios. Parking Support Brake and Back Guide Monitor are also fitted as standard to all grades except the G "X," enabling users to drive with peace of mind even in narrow spaces such as car parks. Plus Support(10) is also available, to control sudden acceleration due to misapplication of the accelerator pedal, whether or not there are obstacles nearby.b. Power supply functionality for times of emergencyAn accessory power outlet (AC100V/1,500W) and an Emergency Power Supply Mode are available on hybrid versions of the Corolla Cross. During blackouts and other times of emergency, parking the vehicle and placing it in Emergency Power Supply Mode enables the Corolla Cross to be used to power electrical appliances such as electric kettles and hair dryers, thereby providing users with added peace of mind.During normal driving, both hybrid and gasoline grades can charge smartphones and other electrical devices via in-cabin USB terminals.The all-new Corolla Cross is also offered via the KINTO ONE car subscription service. Since monthly fees include voluntary insurance, the service is particularly suited to younger generations of drivers and customers who have recently started driving; customers can sign up either online or at Toyota dealers. KINTO ONE offers a wide range of SUVs, and the Corolla Cross is available from just 27,390 yen per month (including tax)(11).For further details on the KINTO car subscription service, please visit the KINTO website (Japanese only).(1) As of July 2021(2) Class-leading for compact SUVs; 26.2 km/L is the fuel efficiency for the Z (Hybrid / 2WD) grade, as evaluated by the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism. WLTC (Worldwide Harmonized Light Vehicles Test Cycle) is an internationally recognized test cycle, and is based on average usage ratios for urban, suburban, and highway driving(3) Torsion beams are used on 2WD grades; E-Four grades are equipped with double wishbone rear suspension(4) Panorama Roof is available as a manufacturer's option on both hybrid and gasoline Z and S grades(5) Class-leading for compact SUVs as of September 2021, according to in-house measurements made using the VDA method; luggage capacity differs for vehicles fitted with spare tires or accessory power outlets, and for E-Four grades(6) Equipped as standard on both hybrid and gasoline Z grades; available as a manufacturer's option on S grades(7) The Luggage Activity Box is a Toyota genuine part; it can be purchased at local Toyota dealers(8) Equipped as standard to all grades, with the exception of the G "X" grade(9) Class-leading for compact SUVs as of September 2021; a minimum turning radius of 5.2 meters is achieved by 2WD grades equipped with 18-inch tires(10) Available as a dealer's option(11) Available from just 27,390 yen per month (including tax) when using the seven-year lease plan with added bonus payments of 110,000 yen (including tax), for the cheapest S Grade (2WD) package, with no additional options; the total price paid over the seven-year subscription period is 3,840,760 yenSales Outline: Monthly sales target 4,400 unitsProduction Plant: Takaoka PlantFor more information, visit https://global.toyota/en/newsroom/toyota/35872105.html. Copyright 2021 JCN Newswire. All rights reserved. (via SEAPRWire)