New models on display
Toyota New Zealand says its display at Fieldays is reflective of its approach to providing Kiwis with a range of mobility and low-emissions powertrains.
The company’s site is powered by a Toyota Hydrogen generator, which is inside the tent silently providing clean energy to the stand while emitting nothing but a few drops of warm water.
The generator has been developed in partnership with a European technology company and uses a fuel cell similar to the power unit inside the hydrogen-powered Mirai car.
Neeraj Lala, chief executive officer of Toyota NZ, says that using the hydrogen generator demonstrates its focus on hydrogen as a genuine green alternative for future innovation and technology beyond cars.
He adds the marque is focused on providing a range of electrified powertrains for its customers, including battery electric, plug-in hybrid and petrol hybrid models, with more than 80 per cent of its range now electrified.
It is aiming to provide choice within the market with multiple powertrains, a varied product range, and a mix of new and used vehicles to “meet the needs of New Zealand today and in the future”.
This year at Fieldays, Toyota will be exhibiting two of the newest vehicles in its line-up. They are the new Hilux hybrid and Land Cruiser Prado, pictured.
Both models have lower emission powertrains, although Lala concedes the reality is they are still higher emitting than the average passenger car.
“We are able to offer vehicles like the Hilux hybrid and Prado due to the lower emissions performance of our broader range of models,” he explains.
“In fact, Toyota has capped sales for Hilux at a maximum of 30 per cent of its annual total to that end. Limiting sales of higher-emitting vehicles will help support the transition to a lower carbon economy.
“While there has been some noise of a downturn in the market, our experience so far this year is that demand remains strong for our products. Customers continue to support Toyota and Lexus with high demand for hybrid products.
“We will continue to provide customers with a unique purchase experience through our network of 90 Toyota Stores nationwide.”
