Providing solutions for all

Toyota New Zealand is focusing its efforts to provide mobility solutions that meet all its customers’ needs while reducing impact on the planet.

The shift comes as Kiwi drivers and fleet buyers become more attuned to climate change and the need to decarbonise our land-transport system. 

Providing multiple mobility options has always been at the fore of the brand in New Zealand with its wide model offering. Now its future is being expanded to include multiple powertrain options so buyers can shift to electrified in their next vehicles.

In his introduction to Toyota NZ’s sustainability report for 2023, chief executive Neeraj Lala says the company’s commitment to its customers is to provide an electrified option in all models as fast as possible.

“Helping them transition to electrified vehicles that are affordable and accessible is at the forefront of everything we do, and is what customers rely on us to help lead them into the future.”

An example of the decarbonising transition is the Corolla – a steadfast in Toyota’s global line-up, which it has sold 53.4 million units in its lifetime. It’s now only available in New Zealand as an electrified hybrid and continues to evolve with a hybrid SUV version – the Corolla Cross.

Lala, pictured, says vehicles such as the hybrid Corolla, RAV4 and Highlander are popular with domestic and commercial buyers because they offer full mobility combined with fuel and carbon savings.

“The shift to focusing on electrified models – from hybrids to plug-in hybrids and battery electric vehicles in early 2024 – is enabling us as a brand to reduce tailpipe emissions from vehicles we sell and meet our clean car standard obligations.”

The sustainability report shows Toyota NZ is on-track to achieve its 2030 emissions targets for products it sells and for its business operations.

“We are cutting carbon emissions from passenger vehicles,” says Lala. “Our ambitious science-based targets of a minimum 46 per cent reduction by 2030 are more than goals, they’re a driving force across our entire business.

“We’re not just reducing emissions, we’re the first to consider a vehicle’s entire lifespan in reduction goals. As a founding signatory to the Climate Leaders’ Coalition, we take our role in the journey towards decarbonisation seriously. We’re setting the bar for the industry in New Zealand.”

In-line with global commitments, Toyota Motor Corporation aims to be carbon neutral by 2050. Toyota NZ, meanwhile, is committed to science-aligned targets including the reduction of carbon-dioxide emissions from vehicles sold.

“Delivering an exceptional customer experience and reducing emissions remains at the forefront of our strategy,” says Lala. “We are also addressing our social impact with community investments and support of organisations in every town or city where the Toyota flag flies.”

The company’s sustainability report includes updates on environmental and social-impact initiatives, including a new partnership with the Rotary Youth Driver Awareness programme.

“Our greatest challenge is reaching net-zero carbon while ensuring mobility for all,” adds Lala. “But we’re also committed to providing affordable, accessible and safe mobility for every Kiwi, making a positive impact on our planet and communities.”

He believes Toyota’s reputation is built on trust, fairness, leadership and responsibility – values that align with its long-held determination to incorporate sustainability targets in its manufacturing and supply chain. 

For example, it has shifted the transport of its spare parts from the Port of Napier to its Manawatu warehouse from road to rail, saving 725 truck trips and 400 tonnes of carbon.

The report also showcases Toyota NZ’s commitment to community impact with initiatives such as the Waka Aronui social-leasing scheme. This is a partnership with The Akina Foundation and Manukau Urban Maori Authority. 

Start-up and pilot funding has been provided by Toyota, the Tindall Foundation, Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment, Waka Kotahi and Auckland Council. Together, they have provided 20 Manukau families with hybrids on an affordable set monthly lease including maintenance, registration and insurance.

And the newly launched Toyota Store Citizenship Award reflects the importance of mobility in regional communities with the award going to the Community Moover at Ebbett Toyota in Te Awamutu and Morrinsville. 

The scheme lends a free 10-seater Hiace to non-profits, schools, sports teams and other groups. Click here for Toyota NZ’s report.