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Toyota Launches All-New Crown Estate in Japan

All Four Models Now Available with the Arrival of the Mature Active Cabin that Combines the Dignity and Functionality of the Crown

Toyota City, Japan, March 13, 2025―Toyota Motor Corporation (Toyota) announced that it will commence sales of its all-new Crown Estate model in Japan today.

ESTATE RS (2.5-liter Plug-in Hybrid Model) (Model with options shown)

Toyota, under the concept of “making ever-better cars,” has introduced TNGA*1 and the in-house company system to drive product-centered management. TNGA has enabled the company to develop a variety of vehicles based on a highly flexible platform, and the in-house company system has nurtured passionate individuals and organizations that put vehicles first and foremost. As a result, Toyota now adopts a Cluster Strategy, developing products not as individual offerings, but as a coordinated group, to meet the needs of customers.
The Crown launched in 1955 celebrates its 70th anniversary with a history that has grown alongside the development of the Japanese economy. Staying true to its DNA of continuous innovation that has been passed down through past generations, the new Crown has also advanced the “making ever-better cars” ideal through TNGA and the in-house company system. In 2022, Toyota unveiled four models with different personalities, rather than just one sedan, to the world as the Crown series.

Four models of the all-new Crown series to meet diverse values and needs

Following the launch of the Crossover, Sport, and Sedan, comes the fourth model in the lineup of the Crown series, the Estate. It brings dynamic styling and functionality so drivers can enjoy an active lifestyle with family and friends. The result is a vehicle that embodies both the dignity and functionality of the Crown in what Toyota calls a Mature Active Cabin. The powertrain lineup includes hybrid (HEV) and plug-in hybrid (PHEV) models to cater to a wide range of customer lifestyles.

*1TNGA Toyota New Global Architecture. An initiative to significantly improve basic performance and product strength by newly developing powertrain units and platforms in an integrated manner while incorporating “smart sharing”‘ that considers overall optimization.

Vehicle Outline

1. A new design combining a wagon and an SUV that offers high quality, refinement, relaxation, and functionality

Exterior design

The front fascia has a bumper-integrated front grille which achieves a stylish and distinctive design that matches the body color. Furthermore, the mesh pattern subtly changes from top to bottom, a carefully crafted detail that enhances the vehicle’s refined appearance.

The Estate features an elegant cabin made possible by the GA-K platform and is complemented by sharp shoulder lines that run from front to rear, achieving a design that seamlessly connects with the character lines on the front hood. The large 21-inch diameter tires on aluminum wheels bring a sense of power and results in flowing and dynamic proportions.

ESTATE RS (2.5-liter Plug-in Hybrid Model) (Model with options shown)

Interior design

  • The Crown series incorporates island architecture*2 across all models. The design also features a horizontal arrangement of meter displays to minimize eye movement, creating a space that enables the driver to drive long distances effortlessly without confusing operations.
  • Vintage-style cloud patterns are applied to the Saddle Tan and Grayish Blue trim areas, and the decorations provide a high quality, yet accentuated design.
*2Island architecture is a design in which various functions such as displays and shifts are grouped together and arranged like an island.

ESTATE RS (2.5-liter Plug-in Hybrid Model) (Model with options shown)

Color design

  • A total of five monotone body colors and five bi-tone body colors are available to create a lineup that is suitable for a wide range of lifestyles. The PHEV model also features an exclusive Precious Metal x Massive Gray bi-tone body color, creating a sense of exclusivity.
  • Three color themes are available for the interior: Black, which is common to the Crown series; Saddle Tan, which complements a glamorous and mature lifestyle; and Grayish Blue, a PHEV-exclusive color theme making its sole appearance in the Crown series and offering a refined and active impression.

ESTATE RS (2.5-liter Plug-in Hybrid Model) (Model with options shown)

2. Functionality that supports an active and mature lifestyle and a relaxing space

Luggage space that expands to meet the needs of an active lifestyle

  • To meet the needs of active customers, the Estate features 570 liters of luggage space when the rear seats are in use and 1,470 liters of luggage space when retracted. Furthermore, it has an all-new luggage space extension board mechanism that creates a completely flat space of two meters in length when the rear seats are folded, a first for Toyota vehicles. This provides new experiential value in various settings such as during leisure and outdoor activities.
  • The floor of the luggage area is made from a high-quality fabric with a pleasant texture, ensuring that customers can store important items securely while also enjoying comfort during their time in the vehicle.

Extended Luggage Space

New items introduced to enhance the experience of the spacious full-flat deck

  • The luggage area incorporates items such as a pull-out deck chair and table to enhance the experience of the full-flat deck. These items increase comfort during car camping or when outdoors by offering a more relaxing space, and can be neatly stored inside the vehicle when not in use.
  • The design of these items features chic color tones that harmonize with the cabin as well as the Crown’s iconic crown emblem, creating a sense of unity and exclusivity.

3. A stress-free, relaxed driving experience that is suitable for a Mature Active Cabin

Pursuing a stress-free ride for long distance travel

  • Based on the Mature Active Cabin concept, the suspension is tuned to maintain precise steering and a high-quality ride. This ensures that passengers can enjoy long drives comfortably without experiencing fatigue.

Front suspension (MacPherson Strut) Rear suspension (Multi-link)

  • Custom settings are applied to the DRS*3 to recreate an agile yet robust driving experience, and custom settings are also added to the AVS*4 to improve damping force and reduce friction, leading to a high-quality ride. Clear distinctions are made between the three drive modes―Normal Mode, Sport Mode, and Rear Comfort Mode―to provide a stress-free ride that suits the preferences of drivers and their passengers.
  • The Rear Comfort Mode adds dedicated DRS control in pursuit of rear seat ride comfort. The AVS*3 control achieves a stress-free ride with minimal swaying for all seats.
*3DRS Dynamic Rear Steering. A rear-wheel steering system that adjusts according to vehicle speed.
*4AVS Adaptive Variable Suspension. An electronically controlled suspension system.

ESTATE Z (2.5-liter Hybrid Model) (Model with options shown)

2.5-liter Hybrid System

  • The Estate is equipped with a high-efficiency hybrid system designed to improve efficiency and performance. The output of the front motor is increased by approximately 50% compared to the Crossover and Sport models. This allows for stress-free acceleration even when carrying an increased load, offering a more relaxed driving experience.

2.5-liter Hybrid System

2.5-liter Plug-in Hybrid System

  • The Estate is equipped with a high-output density drive motor, achieving a driving experience that combines pleasant acceleration with quietness.
  • Like the Sport, the Estate comes with a high-density large-capacity lithium-ion battery. The battery is placed under the floor to allow the vehicle to secure a BEV-mode driving range of 89 km*5 without compromising interior space, which enables operation on BEV-mode for most daily drives.
*5Driving distance in WLTC mode while using battery charge. As evaluated by the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism.
In some instances, the engine will disable BEV-mode driving irrespective of the remaining battery power, according to factors including the state of the engine or drive battery, air conditioner use, and driving style (exceeding the prescribed speed).

2.5-liter Plug-in Hybrid System

Sales Outline

Base sales volume for Japan 1,500 units per month

Production Plant

Tsutsumi Plant, Toyota Motor Corporation

Main Specifications

Length4,930 mm
Width1,880 mm
Height1,625 mm
Fuel efficiencyWLTC mode
20.0 km/liter (PHEV) / 20.3 km/liter (HEV)
Displacement2.487 liters

Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Prices

 PowertrainDrivelinePrice* (JPY)
ESTATE RSSeries Parallel Plug-in Hybrid System (A25A-FXS 2.5-liter)E-Four8,100,000
ESTATE ZSeries Parallel Hybrid System (A25A-FXS 2.5-liter)E-Four6,350,000
*Does not include recycling fees. (Different pricing applies for Hokkaido and Okinawa. Includes consumption tax.)

KINTO

The car subscription service KINTO offers packages that include optional automobile insurance, automobile taxes, maintenance, and other car-related costs, and provides them for a fixed monthly fee. For the new Crown Estate, the HEV model starts at 77,440 yen per month (including tax)*6, while the PHEV model starts at 103,620 yen per month (including tax)*7.

*6When selecting the cheapest package with no additional options, when using the seven-year lease plan with no initial payment and two additional bonus payments of 165,000 yen (including tax) per year. The total price paid over the seven-year subscription period is 8,814,960 yen (including tax).
*7When selecting the cheapest package with no additional options, when using the seven-year lease plan with no initial payment and two additional bonus payments of 165,000 yen (including tax) per year. The total price paid over the seven-year subscription period is 11,014,520 yen (including tax).

Upgrade service (KINTO FACTORY)

Toyota and KINTO Corporation are expanding proposals for evolving the four Crown models through the KINTO FACTORY service, which allows customers to evolve the vehicles they are currently using.
In conjunction with the release of the Crown Estate, wheel design customization for the Crown Sport offering wheel designs that are the same as the upgrade service for the Estate model wheels will be available starting March 19. The order can be placed regardless of how the vehicle in question is used (owned, subscription, etc.).

Launch of “Life with CROWNs” event from March 13 to 16

To celebrate the unveiling of the Estate, a launch event will be held where visitors can experience the diverse value of the four Crown models. Various events will be held at the Azabudai Hills Arena in Tokyo, including exhibits and test drives.
Come and experience the four Crown models and the diverse lifestyles they represent.


Accelerating Action: A Story of Women Lifting Women at CFAO Mobility

The sun rose on International Women’s Day 2025, casting a pink golden glow over CFAO Mobility. Excitement filled the air as the ladies gathered, each bringing their unique strength, stories, and ambitions. This year’s theme, “Accelerate Action,” was more than just words, it was a call to move forward, together, as WOMEN.

From the moment the day began, there was an unspoken understanding, a shared mission to empower, uplift, and inspire. Conversations flowed effortlessly, as stories of resilience and triumph echoed through the room of our different branches. Some spoke of breaking barriers in their careers, others of lifting fellow women through mentorship and support. Each story was a testament to the power of women standing together, lifting each other higher.

Laughter and encouragement filled the space, creating an atmosphere of strength and sisterhood in the world of CFAO. The day culminated in a beautiful moment; a photo session that captured not just smiles but the unwavering spirit of unity. As the shutter clicked, it froze in time a collective promise: to keep pushing boundaries, creating opportunities, and accelerating action for every woman, everywhere.

As we walked away from the celebration, we carried with us more than just memories. We carried a renewed commitment to empower, advocate, and take action, every single day.

So, how did you spend your Women’s Day?


Building a Culture of Integrity: The Story of CFAO Mobility Zambia’s First-Ever Compliance Week

At CFAO Mobility Zambia, ethics is more than just a word, it is the foundation of how we do business. But how do you take a principle as vast as ethics and turn it into something employees can embrace in their daily work and it part of our corporate culture: how do we make compliance not just a legal obligation but a shared commitment ?

This is where the idea of Compliance Week was born. From 17th to 21st February, 2025, CFAO Mobility Zambia embarked on a journey to make compliance come alive within our organization  The initiative aimed to spark meaningful conversations about ethics, corporate responsibility, and the role each of us plays in fostering an honest and accountable business environment.

A Commitment Set in Motion

The week began with an inspiring address from Country CEO, Mr. Dino Bianchi, who reminded us that compliance is more than just following rules, it is about building trust. Trust among employees. Trust with customers. Trust with all stakeholders. 

He reaffirmed our dedication to the CFAO Code of Conduct and Ethics (COCE), the Anti-Corruption Code of Conduct, and all local and international regulations guiding our operations. His message was clear: compliance is not a burden but a privilege, it is the very thing that allows us to grow as an ethical, responsible, and sustainable organization.

Five Days of Learning and Engagement

With that powerful start, Compliance Week took off, structured around five key themes, each one tackling a critical compliance area that affects how we work and the decisions we make.

Day 1: Understanding Anti-Money Laundering (AML)

Money laundering, terrorist financing, and proliferation financing may seem like distant threats, but in reality, they affect businesses and societies worldwide. Our Risk Officer, Chola Kaungu led an insightful session explaining how Zambia’s AML regulations work and why it is essential for companies like ours to stay vigilant. Employees learned how financial crimes can infiltrate legitimate businesses and what steps we must take to prevent, detect, and report suspicious activity.

It was the perfect way to set the tone for the rest of the week, reminding us that compliance starts with knowledge and awareness. That is how the tone was set for the week.

Day 2: Standing Against Corruption

Corruption is often talked about in whispers, but on this day, we made it the center of discussion. A guest speaker from Transparency International Zambia provided a gripping overview of the corruption landscape in our country. Employees were shocked to learn how small ethical compromises can spiral into systemic issues.

Our Risk Team reinforced CFAO’s zero-tolerance policy on bribery and corruption, stressing that every employee, no matter their role, plays a part in preventing unethical behavior. The biggest lesson of the day? Integrity is not just about knowing what is right, it’s about having the courage to stand up for it.

Day 3: Safeguarding Data and Information

In today’s digital world, data protection is no longer optional, it is the law. With Zambia’s Data Protection Act of No.3 of 2021 now in full effect, our responsibility to protect personal and corporate information has never been greater.

This session provided employees with practical strategies for safeguarding sensitive data, preventing cyber threats, and ensuring compliance with legal standards. Whether it was understanding how to handle customer information or learning the risks of weak passwords, every employee walked away with valuable insights on staying secure in an increasingly digital workplace.

Day 4: Corporate Compliance and Speaking Up

An ethical company is not one that never faces challenges, it is one where people feel safe to speak up when something is wrong.

On this day, our Risk Team introduced employees to CFAO’s Speak Up Policy and Code of Conduct & Ethics, explaining how reporting unethical behavior is not just encouraged but protected. A lively compliance quiz brought the session to life, testing employees’ knowledge of the Local Compliance Organization and Delegation of Authority framework.

The biggest takeaway? Silence enables misconduct. Speaking up builds integrity. This was indeed an interesting day yet felt self legally binding.

Day 5: Strengthening Our Ethical Commitment

As Compliance Week came to a close, we took time to reflect on everything we had learned. However theoretic learning alone was not enough, we needed to act.

In a formal commitment ceremony, employees and leadership signed the COCE’s 10 Creeds on what we termed a declaration board which was/is binding, publicly affirming their pledge to uphold ethical business practices. To celebrate the spirit of compliance, awards were presented to quiz winners and top-performing branches, recognizing those who demonstrated outstanding knowledge and commitment throughout the week.

A Tradition Begins

Looking back, Compliance Week was more than a series of sessions, it was a movement. It was a moment when compliance transformed from being just a policy into a shared purpose. Employees left not just with new knowledge, but with a renewed sense of responsibility to uphold integrity, transparency, and ethical excellence every day.

This is just the beginning. As we continue this journey, we invite everyone, employees, customers, and community members, to be part of this mission. Together, we can build a future where doing the right thing is not just expected, but celebrated.

See you next year for an even bigger and better Compliance Week!

And in the meantime, take a moment to view our photos from the week you might just see integrity in action


Logistics, Plants, Cafeteria… More and More Uses for Hydrogen, and More Partners, too!

Toyota Times News is presenting a two-week special on hydrogen. Last week was all about the possibilities of hydrogen and music. This week, we feature some vehicle-related stories befitting a carmaker.

In 2024, Thailand, Fukushima, and Tokyo began FCEV (Fuel Cell Electric Vehicle) heavy-duty truck trials, and now Toyota City in Aichi has joined them.

In response to a request from Asahi Group Japan, Hino and Toyota co-developed the trucks, and now there are five undergoing trials in Japan.

One feature is the twin hydrogen fueling opening. Only a few stations currently offer twin hydrogen fueling nozzles, but theoretically, this should allow hydrogen fueling at double the speed. Reducing downtime is very important for commercial vehicles.

Other issues remain, such as the limited cargo space due to hydrogen tanks and the price of hydrogen itself. Even so, the quiet and smooth-running FC heavy-duty trucks are gentle both on the environment and their long-distance drivers.

Shimoyama Plant in Miyoshi City, Aichi Prefecture, manufactures the tanks for these FC heavy-duty trucks.

At the plant, resin left over from manufacturing the tanks is compressed and turned into marble-esque items like flower vases. Hydrogen that is discarded when fueling up the tanks is used to power the plant and cooking devices.

Waste products that would have been discarded are providing new value through re-use and upcycling. Take a look at other Toyota Times News videos that show other food dishes that have been made using a hydrogen grill.

We took an up-close look at the many ways hydrogen is being used in the quest for carbon neutrality.


Toyota 1-2 at Dakar 2025 as Al Rajhi wins and Lategan takes second

The 2025 Dakar Rally brought not only victory for Toyota, but also a second place overall for TOYOTA GAZOO Racing’s Henk Lategan and Brett Cummings #211. The works GR Hilux EVO crew led the race overall for 9 stages, but eventually lost out to Yazeed Al Rajhi and Timo Gottschalk in their Toyota Hilux by just 3min 57sec after two weeks of racing across the Saudi Arabian landscape.

For Saudi Arabia’s Al Rajhi, it was a dream come true to win the Dakar Rally on home soil, and the man from Riyadh now also leads the 2025 World Rally-Raid Championship (W2RC) standings, as the Dakar Rally is Round 1 of this championship. With the Dakar Rally done and dusted, Al Rajhi is on 70 points in the W2RC, with his nearest rival, Henk Lategan, on 55 points. Toyota leads the W2RC manufacturer standings after the opening round, with 34 points buffer to the team in second place.

Lategan/Cummings made no secret of their title aspirations when they won the Prologue for the Dakar Rally back in Bisha, before taking the overall lead of the event on Stage 2. They held onto the lead for eight straight stages, before briefly relinquishing it to Al Rajhi for one stage. The South African duo regained the lead on the next stage, but this put them at a disadvantage in terms of road position for the penultimate and deciding stage. In the end, they settled for second place, giving Toyota a coveted 1-2 finish at the world’s toughest rally-raid event.

Californian Seth Quintero and his German co-driver Dennis Zenz (#204) were the next-fastest TGR crew on today’s stage. The pair drove a steady race and overcame various challenges to bring their GR Hilux EVO home in 9th place, just 2h 20min 4sec behind the winners. Were it not for a tyre disaster in Stage 4, the young American may well have finished much higher up the order. Still, he leaves the Dakar Rally with a Top 10 finish, two stage wins, as well as 28 points towards the W2RC.

Lucas Moraes and co-driver Armand Monleon (#203) started their Dakar 2025 campaign in fine form, pushing for the lead in the early stages of the rally. However, a technical problem with one of the dampers on their car cost the pair significant time during Stage 6 and they were on the back foot from that point forward. A time penalty dropped them down the order and out of contention, but the Brazilian driver and his Spanish co-driver continued to fight for stage wins.

Their tenacity was rewarded when they not only bounced back to win Stage 7 of the rally, but repeated the feat on the closing stage of the event. With two stage wins to their credit, they are on 18 points in the W2RC standings, and recorded a 15th place overall at the Dakar Rally.

The final finisher for TGR was young South African, Saood Variawa, and his French co-driver Francois Cazalet. Variawa became the youngest stage winner in the Ultimate Class when he won Stage 3 of the event, but a collision in Stage 2, as well as a technical issue later in the event, cost him dearly. He was classified in 29th place, 9h 29min 56sec behind the leaders. Even so, he garnered 13 points towards his W2RC campaign, and will be looking to improve on this at Round 2 of the championship.

Two TGR crews were unable to complete the 2025 Dakar Rally. The first to retire was the veteran duo of Giniel de Villiers and Dirk von Zitzewitz, who had to stop racing after Stage 6, when Von Zitzewitz developed extreme neck pain min-stage. He was medically examined after the stage, and deemed unfit to continue, bringing a first Dakar retirement for De Villiers in a career that spanned 22 starts.

The second retirement was that of Guy Botterill and Dennis Murphy, who had driven steady race up until Stage 9. They had lost several hours earlier in the race due to a damper problem, but suffered a crash in Stage 9 which put an end to their rally.

Overall, Toyota won all but four stages of the 12-stage event, as well as the Prologue in Bisha. Toyota also occupied four spots in the overall Top 10 at the finish, including first and second place. This was a power performance by the brand, underscoring the quality, durability and reliability for which the Toyota Hilux is famous. The team will continue to improve on the car, however, as part of Toyota’s ethos of creating ever-better cars not only for motorsport, but also for its customers.

News source:  https://toyotagazooracing.com/dakar/release/2025/0120-01/


A Special Class with Akio Toyoda: Management, Life, Problem-Solving Questions from High Schoolers

This time, Toyota Times News features a special class for high school students by Chairman Akio Toyoda.

The stage for his class was FC Imabari High School, which opened in April 2024 in Ehime Prefecture. The school is known for its school principal, Takeshi “Oka-chan” Okada, former Japanese national men’s soccer team coach.

The school aims to nurture a new generation of leaders and has a varied curriculum, which includes guest lectures from many different industry professionals.

A certain YouTube video led to “Aki-chan’s” guest lecture. Mr. Okada’s approach to education resonated deeply with the chairman who even said, “Toyota will take all your graduates.”

That encounter was the start of the special class featured in today’s video.

“What do you wish you had done during high school?”
“How do you deal with a crisis when faced with one?”
“Tell me about people who inspired you to change.”

Teacher Aki-chan answers the barrage of questions with sincerity.

After the lecture, the class went out into the schoolyard where the students had a chance to ride in a rally car. In response to student requests, teacher Aki-chan offered a special opportunity to sit in the Century he rode to the school. All the teenagers smiled in excitement at this up-close experience of enjoying cars!

Aki-chan reflected on his time interacting with the bright-eyed students, saying with a smile, “It was a very short time, but they really energized me.”

Whenever he talks about the future, Chairman Toyoda never fails to mention the children who will build that future.


TOYOTA GAZOO Racing Exhibiting at Tokyo Auto Salon 2025

Vehicles, Parts, and More on Display Under Main Theme of “Car-making at Nürburgring”

Toyota Motor Corporation
GAZOO Racing Company

TOYOTA GAZOO Racing (TGR) announced today that it is exhibiting at the three-day Tokyo Auto Salon 2025*1 being held at Makuhari Messe (in Chiba, Japan) from January 10 (today) to 12, 2025, mainly displaying vehicles and vehicle parts under the main theme of “Car-making at Nürburgring”, which is the starting point of TGR and Chairman Akio Toyoda, aka Master Driver Morizo.

This year, along with Daihatsu Motor Co., Ltd., TGR is exhibiting at Makuhari Messe’s North Hall. TGR’s booth will include the “LAND CRUISER BASE” display for promoting the fun of customizing the Toyota Land Cruiser, hitherto put on by Toyota Auto Body Co., Ltd. This coming together by members of the Toyota Group aims to boost excitement at Tokyo Auto Salon 2025.

During the event’s three days, TGR plans to hold talk sessions featuring drivers, engineers, and others, as well as outdoor vehicle demo runs. Detailed information on the talk sessions, the demo runs, exhibited vehicles, and others can be found on the following special website.
URL: https://toyotagazooracing.com/eventexhibition/tokyoautosalon/

Main vehicles and other exhibited items at Tokyo Auto Salon 2025

Underlined items indicate items detailed in this press release.

CategoryVehicleExhibit venue
Making ever-better motorsports-bred carsGR YARIS (NÜR 24h)TGR booth
GR YARIS M Concept
GR YARIS Aero Package (prototype)
Nürburgring 24 Hours endurance race vehiclesTOYOTA SUPRA (NÜR training car)
TOYOTA ALTEZZA #109 (2007 NÜR 24h)
LEXUS LFA #48 (2014 NÜR 24h)
TOYOTA 86 #86 (2014 NÜR 24h)
GR SUPRA #90 (2019 NÜR 24h)
MORIZO GarageCOROLLA (1966)
R360 COUPE (1960)
SUBARU 360 (1967)
MIDGET (1962)
LAND CRUISER BASELAND CRUISER (BJ)
LAND CRUISER 70 Overseas Custom
LAND CRUISER 300 GR SPORT Dakar Rally 2025 specifications vehicle
Demo-run vehiclesGR COROLLA Rally ConceptOutdoor venue (GR COROLLA Rally Concept scheduled for display on January 12)
GR Yaris Rally2
Celica GT-FOUR ST185

Tokyo Auto Salon 2025 vehicles and other exhibited items

1. GR YARIS (NÜR 24h)

From 2025, TGR and ROOKIE Racing intend to compete in the Nürburgring Langstrecken Serie (NLS) and the Super Taikyu Series as a united “TOYOTA GAZOO ROOKIE Racing (TGRR)”. The new team plans to mark Toyota’s return to the Nürburgring 24 Hours endurance race after a six-year hiatus, entering with the evolved GR Yaris, which made its world debut at Tokyo Auto Salon 2024 and is equipped with the newly developed GAZOO Racing Direct Automatic Transmission. In 2024, numerous drivers, including Morizo and professional drivers, worked to prepare their Nürburgring entry vehicle by test-driving the GR Yaris on various roads both in Japan and abroad, including those of the Nürburgring circuit. The team seeks to hone its people and cars at the Nürburgring, the starting place of Morizo and TGR.

2. GR YARIS M Concept

To further explore the potential of the GR Yaris, TGRR plans to compete in the Super Taikyu Series in the GR YARIS M Concept, which features an underdevelopment, midship-mounted, 2.0-liter, inline 4-cylinder, turbocharged engine. The team aims to implement “driver-first” carmaking, in which cars are repeatedly driven to failure and then repaired in the extreme conditions of racing and in which feedback from Morizo, professional drivers, and gentleman drivers is thoroughly incorporated.

3. GR YARIS Aero Package (prototype)

The GR YARIS Aero Package is a concept vehicle equipped with performance aerodynamic parts that havebeen developed together with professional drivers through an uncompromising approach to achieving targeted performance by addressing every single issue encountered during racing and circuit evaluations. The vehicle features six such parts, including a variable rear wing with a situation-responsive adjustable angle, and not only pursues enhanced aerodynamic performance and handling stability but also exerts an eye-catching presence in terms of styling. It also has a vertical handbrake, which is available as a popular factory-installed option for the RC trim level of the evolved GR Yaris released last year.

GR86 software upgrades

Since its launch in 2021, the GR86 has been well-received by many customers as a car with the unique driving feel of a GR vehicle. Its partial upgrade in 2024 reflects learnings from various motorsports in which the GR86 continues to compete. Based on feedback from professional drivers who hone cars in the extreme environment of racing, the throttle characteristics were modified (in manual transmission vehicles) and the engine-speed tolerance range during downshifting was expanded (in automatic transmission vehicles) to improve acceleration response and enable quicker downshifts, resulting in the further refinement of the unique driving feel of a GR vehicle. To enable pre-upgrade GR86 owners to experience this evolved driving performance, software upgrades “GR86 PERFORMANCE SOFTWARE for MT” / “GR86 PERFORMANCE SOFTWARE for AT” are to be sold*2 through GR Garage locations from the spring of 2025. So that those who continue to drive the GR86 can enjoy it for many years to come, TGR intends to continue supporting the evolution of its customers’ beloved cars.

Software upgrade details

Manual transmission vehicles

Engine torque control has been modified for easier blipping, which is often required in motorsports. Also, throttle control has been adopted to obtain a more direct response to accelerator operation, improving ease of handling at the upper limits of performance.

Automatic transmission vehicles

Responding to requests from customers who participate in motorsports with automatic transmission vehicles, the engine-speed tolerance range during downshifting has been expanded, enabling sporty driving supported by a wider torque band.

5. Circuit Mode

Circuit Mode is a service that enables functions that bring out a car’s potential, such as by adding anti-lag control and raising the speed limit of the speed limiter, at service-eligible circuits and facilities in Japan. GPS location determination and operation using a dedicated app switches the vehicle’s instrument panel to a dedicated gauge display that intuitively shows shift timing and engine rpms, enabling the use of Circuit Mode.

In response to customer requests since the service’s launch on August 21, 2024, to be able to enjoy Circuit Mode in a variety of motorsports, the number of eligible circuits and facilities was increased today from the hitherto 50 to 77, centering on facilities where gymkhana and dirt trials can be enjoyed.

For details on eligible circuits and facilities, available features, etc., please see the following:
https://toyotagazooracing.com/jp/gr/circuit_mode/ (in Japanese)

GR Parts

TGR strives to quickly provide its customers with parts that leverage knowledge gained through racing. Sales of the following items for various vehicle models are to start in succession.

For the GR Yaris

 ProductPriceScheduled sales launch timingSales method
Competition partsGR Mechanical LSD (for automatic transmission vehicles)To be announcedSpring 2025Toyota sales outlets across Japan
GR Endurance Bumper Bolt SetTo be announcedSummer 2025

For the GR86

 ProductPrice (including tax)Scheduled sales launch timingSales method
Competition partsGR Final Gear Kit (Gear ratio can be selected from among 3.909, 4.100, 4.300, and 4.556)85,800 yenSpring 2025Toyota sales outlets across Japan
Suspension and drive system partsDifferential Carrier with Cooling Fins39,160 yenSpring 2025

NOTE: Some parts might be subject to long delivery times due to limited availability. Details will be announced at the time of each sales launch.

For the latest information on GR parts, please see the following:
https://toyotagazooracing.com/jp/gr/grparts/ (in Japanese)

7. GR Heritage Parts

The GR Heritage Parts Project is an initiative to reissue discontinued service parts and sell them anew as genuine parts to meet customers’ desires to keep on driving their beloved cars full of memories. In 2025, TGR plans to release 25 items for seven models, including the 70/80 Supra, AE86, and Land Cruiser 40, some of which will be exhibited at Tokyo Auto Salon 2025.

Also, TGR is reprinting for sale long-requested, nostalgia-inducing brochures of GR Heritage Parts vehicle models and other classic cars. The brochures can be purchased at Tokyo Auto Salon 2025 and through the online TOYOTA GAZOO Racing Rakuten Ichiba store*3.

For details, please see the following:
https://toyotagazooracing.com/gr/heritage/

8. LAND CRUISER BASE

The Land Cruiser―a vehicle that allows people to go anywhere and everywhere and return safely―has been nurtured and honed by Toyota customers around the world for more than 70 years. Desiring to have customers long-lastingly enjoy using their Land Cruisers with a sense of security, the Land Cruiser specialty store LAND CRUISER BASE will be reborn on February 1, 2025, with Toyota Motor Corporation serving as its main business entity.

Working together with colleagues such as Toyota Auto Body Co., Ltd., which has thus far been the store’s main business entity, and other related companies that support the Land Cruiser, Toyota will operate LAND CRUISER BASE as a specialty store that will serve as a place for Toyota to deepen its ties with customers, offer various services and activities based on customer feedback, such as planning and selling original parts and goods, create a community in which customers come together, and host events.

To view the LAND CRUISER BASE teaser site, please see the following:
https://toyota.jp/info/landcruiserbase (in Japanese)

About TOYOTA GAZOO ROOKIE Racing

ROOKIE Racing is a privateer team that focuses on making ever-better cars and developing human resources through the skills and dedication of various drivers, including Toyota’s master driver, professional drivers, gentleman drivers, and Toyota’s in-house evaluation drivers. TGR and ROOKIE Racing’s hitherto relationship was one of TGR taking the lead in car manufacturing and human resource development, with ROOKIE Racing being a privateer team that competes in motorsports as part of such TGR activities.

Going forward, TGR and ROOKIE Racing will work together under the banner of “TOYOTA GAZOO ROOKIE Racing” as “development partners who engage with cars and people on the front line, using driving data from races and other extreme conditions as a common language” to take the making of ever-better motorsports-bred cars and human resources development to the next level.

Specifically, TOYOTA GAZOO ROOKIE Racing intends to hone the GR YARIS (NÜR 24h) in the NLS and the GR YARIS M Concept in the Super Taikyu Series.

About TGR’s global motorsports structure

Through such initiatives as its partnership with MoneyGram Haas F1 Team, Hitech TGR’s driver development activities in Europe, and the establishment of TOYOTA GAZOO Racing Development, TGR is promoting efforts to hone the three elements of motorsports: people, product, and pipeline. Furthermore, to seamlessly advance the development of people, environments, and systems in motorsports, TGR is strengthening its global motorsports structure by positioning Morizo at the top and assigning two direct-report global directors. It is also bolstering cooperation with related organizations, affiliated companies, racing teams, and TGR’s bases of operations in Japan and overseas, as well as promoting people development and environment creation.

RolePersons responsible
Director of TGR Global MotorsportMasaya Kaji
Yuichiro Haruna*4
*1A customized car event; January 10: industry and press invitation day, January 11 and 12: general public days
*2For GR86s produced between October 2021 and July 2024
*3Sales of reprinted brochures through the TOYOTA GAZOO Racing Rakuten Ichiba store are scheduled to start on February 3, 2025.
*4To continue as TOYOTA GAZOO Racing-World Rally Team CEO and concurrently serve as a director of TGR Global Motorsport

“Toyota Woven City,” a Test Course for Mobility, Completes Phase 1 Construction and Prepares for Launch

Las Vegas, USA―At CES 2025, Toyota Motor Corporation (“Toyota”) announced the completion of Phase 1 construction of Toyota Woven City (“Woven City”), its test course for mobility. The launch of Phase 1 is planned for fall 2025 or shortly thereafter.

Toyota first announced its transformation into a mobility company at CES 2018 and, at CES 2020, unveiled the Woven City concept being developed in collaboration with Woven by Toyota (“WbyT”) to demonstrate Toyota’s long-term commitment to shaping the future of mobility.

Woven City has made steady progress since its groundbreaking ceremony on February 23, 2021, at the former site of Toyota Motor East Japan’s (“TMEJ”) Higashi-Fuji Plant in Susono City, Shizuoka Prefecture, Japan. Construction of Phase 1 buildings―the initial area for co-creation activities―was completed in October 2024. Preparations for the official launch are now underway.

Woven City’s Phase 1 has also previously been recognized for its environmentally conscious and human-centric design aimed at enhancing people’s overall quality of life. It earned Japan’s first LEED for Communities* Platinum certification, the system’s highest rank.

Alongside Phase 1 preparations, renovation of a former TMEJ Higashi-Fuji Plant facility into a manufacturing hub for Woven City is underway, and site preparation work for Phase 2 has commenced. Insights from Phase 1 will help refine plans for Phase 2 and future phases, and continually enhance the test course’s functionality.

Woven City is a test course for mobility where “Inventors” who share a commitment to working “for someone other than themselves” can develop, test, and validate innovative products and services. These inventors include Toyota and Toyota Group companies, such as WbyT, as well as external companies, startups, and individual entrepreneurs. By leveraging Toyota’s decades-long manufacturing expertise and WbyT’s software capabilities, Woven City offers a unique environment equipped with the tools and services needed to tackle societal challenges and create future-focused value. Through collaboration among inventors and feedback from residents and visitors, Woven City aims to drive innovation and shape a better tomorrow.

The inventors of Woven City who have been confirmed so far are as follows.

Inventors

CompanyBusiness DescriptionTheme of Co-Creation in Woven City
Daikin Industries, Ltd.Manufacturing, sales and after-sales services of air conditioning products, fluorochemical products, etc.Testing “pollen-free spaces” and “personalized functional environments”
DyDo DRINCO, INC.Manufacturing and sales of soft drinks and other beverages, etc.Creating new value through innovative vending machine concepts
NISSIN FOOD PRODUCTS CO., LTD.Manufacturing and sales of instant noodles and related products, etc.Creating and evaluating food environments to inspire new ‘food cultures’
UCC Japan Co., Ltd.Regional headquarters of Japanese operating companies engaged in coffee manufacturing and salesExploring the potential value of coffee through futuristic cafe experiences
Zoshinkai Holdings Inc.Comprehensive education services offering correspondence education and classroom programsLeveraging data to realize innovative educational methods and new learning environments

Alphabetical order as of January 7, 2025

Woven City is also in continued discussions with previously announced companies such as ENEOS Corporation, Nippon Telegraph and Telephone Corporation (NTT), and Rinnai Corporation.

External startups, entrepreneurs, universities and research institutions are also scheduled to be invited to Woven City through an accelerator program, starting in summer 2025.

Residents and visitors will play an equally vital role alongside inventors in Woven City. Known as ‘Weavers,’ these individuals share a passion for the ‘expansion of mobility’ and a commitment to building a more flourishing society. Through their participation in co-creation activities, Weavers will contribute to realizing the full potential of Woven City.

At the official launch of Woven City, starting in fall 2025 or thereafter, approximately 100 residents―primarily Toyota and WbyT staff and their families―are expected to participate in co-creation activities as the first residents. The community will then gradually expand to include external inventors and their families. Phase 1 is projected to accommodate around 360 residents, with the total population, including Phase 2 and subsequent phases, expected to reach approximately 2,000. Initially, visitors will be limited to related parties, with plans to welcome the general public to participate as Weavers in co-creation activities starting in FY2026 or thereafter.

Woven City also serves as a test course for Toyota’s transformation into a mobility company. Together, Toyota and WbyT aim to redefine mobility, expanding its scope beyond transportation to encompass the movement of people, goods, information, and energy for the benefit of individuals and society. Designed as a human-centered city, Woven City places the people who gather there―Inventors and Weavers―at its center to unlock new possibilities in the shared pursuit of “Well-being for All”. With an eye on expanding mobility from land, sea, and air to space, WbyT also announced an investment in Interstellar Technologies Inc. and will leverage Toyota’s expertise to support the mass production of rockets.

Woven City Phase 1 Basic Information

Address1117 Mishuku, Susono City, Shizuoka, Japan (Former site of the TMEJ Higashi-Fuji plant)
Site AreaApprox. 50,000 sq. m (approx.708,000 sq. m in total in the future)
Main TimelineJanuary 7, 2020: Concept announced at CES 2020February 23, 2021: Phase 1 Groundbreaking Ceremony. Start of site preparation work in March 2021October 10, 2022: Phase1 Safety Prayer Ceremony. Start of building work for Phase 1 in November 2022October 31, 2024: Completion of Phase 1 constructionStarting in Fall 2025 or thereafter: Phase 1 official launch
ResidentsFrom fall 2025 or thereafter, Toyota and Toyota-related personnel will begin to move in, and in Phase 1, a total of approximately 360 people are scheduled to live there (in the future, the number of residents is expected to expand to 2,000 people in all areas)
*LEED is an acronym for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design and refers to a system for evaluating the environmental performance of buildings and cities operated by the U.S. Green Building Council. Woven City was certified in March 2023.

About Woven by Toyota

Woven by Toyota, a part of the Toyota Group, is challenging the current state of mobility through human-centric innovation and empowering mobility transformation. Through our AD/ADAS technology, our automotive software development platform Arene OS, our mobility test course Toyota Woven City, and Toyota’s growth fund, Woven Capital, we are pioneering the movement of people, goods, information, and energy, weaving a future of enhanced safety, connectivity and well-being for all.


RTSA and CFAO Mobility partnership to enhance road safety through seatbelt campaign

 

LUSAKA, 19th November 2024  

The Road Transport and Safety Agency (RTSA) and CFAO Mobility have embarked on a collaborative partnership to promote road safety awareness and reduce road traffic accidents through the “Why I Buckle Up” my seatbelt campaign.

Road traffic crashes remain a significant concern in Zambia, claiming thousands of lives annually. RTSA and CFAO Mobility recognise the importance of addressing this issue and have joined hands to educate road users on the critical role of seatbelts in preventing fatalities and injuries. 

The partnership between the two institutions aims to enhance road safety awareness among motorists and passengers, reduce road traffic related fatalities and injuries and hopes to promote the correct use of seatbelts among drivers and passengers in the country.

The joint awareness campaign is being conducted through media engagements, by both RTSA and CFAO Mobility. Both organizations are leveraging its comprehensive networks of digital and point-of-sale or service channels to maximize the reach of its seatbelt campaign message – Buckle up! Central to this effort are “Ask RTSA” and “Toyota Zambia” Facebook pages. By utilizing these platforms, along with in-store activations and direct customer interactions, supported by specific community outreach programs, the campaign is set to make a significant impact, raising awareness about seatbelt safety among a broad and diverse audience.

Road safety is a shared responsibility; RTSA and CFAO Mobility are committed to working together along with other stakeholders to improve the road safety profile of the country.

In view of the above, RTSA and CFAO Mobility will continue to collaborate on this and other initiatives to promote safety and protect lives on the road.

Issued and authorised for publication by:

Mukela Mangolwa

Acting Head-Public Relations

Road Safety House

Dedan Kimathi Road

LUSAKA

 

Moola Shuwanga

CRM & Corporate Affairs Manager

CFAO Mobility

Cairo Road, Northend Lusaka, Zambia

LUSAKA

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Holiday Trading Hours Notice

 

Please take note of the trading hours for all CFAO Mobility branches and Authorized Service Centers during the festive season:

  • 24th December 2024: Close at 12:00 hrs
  • 25th December 2024: Public Holiday (Christmas) – Closed
  • 26th December 2024: Closed for Christmas celebrations
  • 27th to 31st December 2024: Limited staff available
  • 31th December 2024: Normal working day
  • 1st January 2025: Public Holiday (New Year) – Closed
  • 2nd January 2025: Public Holiday (Day following New Year’s Day) – Closed
  • 3rd January 2025: Fully open for business

We wish you and your loved ones a joyous Christmas and a safe, prosperous New Year! See you in 2025! 

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