Toyota and Lexus Sales up for October 2021

UMW Toyota Motor (UMWT) has been among the companies that has gained with the rapid recovery of the market. For the month of October, the total number of Toyota and Lexus vehicles sold was 8,500 units, an increase of 6% over the September sales volume. Cumulative sales up till the end of October were 54,618 units, 25% more than for the same period of 10 months in 2020.

The company meanwhile keeps the good news coming with the commencement for order-taking of the much awaited, first locally assembled Toyota model with Hybrid Electric Technology. The new model will be the Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid which is estimated to be priced from RM137,000. Customers also have the option of two other variants – the Corolla Cross 1.8V and 1.8G – which come with 1.8-litre DOHC 16-valve Dual VVT-i engines.

“This is a major milestone in the history of Toyota in Malaysia, and we are excited about launching the first locally-assembled Toyota model with Hybrid Electric Technology. Assembling locally means more attractive and affordable pricing so that more people can enjoy the benefits of the advanced technology,” said Mr. Ravindran K, President of UMW Toyota Motor.

At the time of the introduction of the Corolla Cross, the model was imported in CBU (completely built-up) from Thailand, will be assembled in Malaysia at the ASSB plant in Bukit Raja, Selangor for the three variants. Besides the Corolla Cross Hybrid, the other two variants will be the Corolla Cross 1.8V and Corolla Cross 1.8G.

Order-taking has started by all authorized Toyota dealers for all three variants with the following estimated on-the-road prices inclusive of sales tax but without insurance:

Toyota Corolla Cross 1.8 Hybrid: RM137,000 Toyota Corolla Cross 1.8V: RM129,000 Toyota Corolla Cross 1.8G: RM123,000

Five thrilling exterior colours will be offered: Celestite Grey Metallic (exclusive for the Corolla Cross Hybrid), Platinum White Pearl, Red Mica Metallic, Nebula Blue Metallic and Silver Metallic.

HYBRID PIONEER SINCE 1997 AND WILL BE THE FIRST TOYOTA HYBRID MODEL ASSEMBLED LOCALLY

The highlight of the locally assembled Corolla Cross is, of course, the Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV) Technology. This technology has been developed, improved, and refined since the late 1990s when Toyota introduced the world’s first mass-produced passenger car with a hybrid electric powertrain.

As the pioneer and leader in hybrid electric technology, Toyota has sold over 18.1 million hybrid vehicles to date (as of September 7, 2021). Globally, there are 45 HEV models (as of 2020) across a wide range of size and body types. In Europe, hybrid models account for over 50% of Toyota’s annual sales volume while in almost every market, Toyota offers some models with hybrid electric technology.

The technology has proven to be reliable and unlike fully electric vehicles, does not require any additional public infrastructure. It is therefore ideal for Malaysia at this stage of its journey towards electrification.

“The local assembly of the new Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid is another major milestone in Toyota’s long history in Malaysia. The Corolla contributed to the motorization of the country when it was first introduced in the 1960s, and now with the Corolla Cross Hybrid, Toyota is contributing to the country’s transition towards the era of electrification,” said Akio Takeyama, Deputy Chairman of UMW Toyota Motor.

TOYOTA HYBRID ELECTRIC VEHICLE TECHNOLOGY
The hybrid electric powertrain of the Corolla Cross Hybrid employs the fourth generation of Toyota’s Hybrid Electric System. This consists of a 1.8-litre petrol engine which works together with an electric motor, with the computer intelligently using power from the engine and motor according to driving conditions. For stronger acceleration, more power may be drawn from the petrol engine, while the electric motor is used more when moving off from standstill. In certain conditions, it is even possible to drive on just electric power alone, with almost noiseless movement and zero emissions.

The power output of the petrol engine is 72 kW/98 ps at 5,200 rpm with 142 Nm of torque at 3,600 rpm. From the electric motor comes 53 kW (equal to 72 ps) and 163 Nm of torque which is available from almost idling speed. Power delivery is via an E-CVT with 4 drive modes - SPORT | ECO | NORMAL | EV. The driver can easily select each mode while on the move to suit driving preferences or to maximize fuel-saving.

For the Corolla Cross 1.8V and 1.8G, the powertrain is the same as that in the models launched earlier this year. The proven 1.8-litre DOHC 16-valve petrol engine with Dual VVT-i produces 139 ps of power at 6,400 rpm with 172 Nm of torque at 4,000 rpm. An electronically-controlled throttle to provide responsiveness, smoothness and quietness. The 7-speed Sequential Shiftmatic transmission (CVT) also offers manual selection of gears.

Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA)
As with most of the latest Toyota models, the Corolla Cross uses the Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA) which is a structure and platform that allows more design and engineering flexibility. It can be used for a variety of bodystyles and with its high rigidity, agility and ride comfort are enhanced. At the same time, a lower centre of gravity can be achieved to Improve stability while the eye level of the driver can be 121 mm higher than that in the Corolla Sedan.

The ground clearance is also higher at 161 mm, in keeping with the crossover SUV image and functionality of the model. the 5.2-metre turning radius – best-in-class – parking and moving around easy.

DESIGN CONCEPT
Although a member of the Corolla family, the Corolla Cross has entirely different styling from the popular Corolla Sedan. Its bold design adopts the concept of ‘Urban Toughness’, which reflects its role as a SUV.

Compared to the earlier imported version, the locally assembled versions are enhanced with new features. Like the Corolla Cross 1.8V, the 1.8G also has Bi-LED headlamps with LED Daytime Running Lights that employ a Light Curtain design. A roof rail is now included as standard to add to the sporty and adventurous image.

Like the exterior, the interior of the Corolla Cross also has a sporty and adventurous image with a tough premium expression. It has all the comfort and convenience features while the extra height of the vehicle provides significantly better headroom than other competitor SUV models in the same class.

For the Corolla Cross 1.8V, LED illumination on the front door trim, cupholder and tray creates a high-quality feel and gives an advanced impression. The driver’s seat also has 8-way Power Adjustment, while the rear seat backrest can recline by 6 degrees as well as fold to enlarge the boot space from its standard 440 litres. For maximum convenience, the powered rear door has a handsfree opening operation with the kick sensor under the bumper.

The infotainment system, which uses a 9-inch touchscreen display, and is Apple CarPlay and Android Auto ready so favourite apps from compatible smartphones can be transferred and used from the dashboard. For recharging portable devices, there are now two Type-C USB points at the rear and customers can also include the optional wireless charger pad.

With the Corolla Cross Hybrid’s efficient powertrain, motoring will be quieter but even with the other two version, noise levels within the cabin have been reduced. This is from the use of windshield glass with better insulation as well as a bonnet silencer. For added comfort, rear passengers also get cool air with additional vents for the rear section.

TOYOTA SAFETY SENSE
All three Corolla Cross variants have Toyota Safety Sense (TSS) 2.0 to assist the driver to avoid an accident or minimize the effects of a collision. The safety systems in TSS 2.0 consist of a Pre-Collision System (PCS), Lane Departure Alert (LDA) with Steering Assist, Lane Tracing Assist (LTA), Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (DRCC), and Automatic High Beam (AHB).

These core technologies, which use a radar and camera, are complemented by other safety technologies such as a Blind Spot Monitor (BSM) with Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA), 3D Panoramic View Monitor, Driver Start Control and a Tyre Pressure Warning System (TPWS). A Front Driving Video Recorders (DVR) is standard and customers can also choose to add a rear- mounted DVR.

For the locally-assembled models, DRCC and LTA have been enhanced to be able to operate at full speed. DRCC maintains a safe distance from the vehicle ahead whatever the cruising speed is set at, while LTA helps the driver to keep the vehicle safely within its lane – even while going around a curve.

Besides the high-strength TNGA platform, the structure of the Corolla Cross is engineered to withstand impact forces from all sides during an accident, reducing or preventing injuries to the occupants. In crash testing and technical evaluation by ASEAN NCAP, the Corolla Cross, as with many other Toyota models, has received a maximum 5-star safety rating.

Additionally, there are 7 SRS airbags around the cabin (including one for the driver’s knees) which will deploy and provide cushioning in severe collisions. ISOFIX points (with tether anchor) are also available in the rear outer seats for installation of compatible child-seats, which are now required by law.

WARRANTY
As with other Toyota passenger car models, the Corolla Cross comes with a factory warranty of 5 years, with unlimited mileage.

Committed to providing peace of mind, the hybrid battery pack has a separate warranty of 8 years which is superior to any other battery warranty in the market. Unlike other brands, Toyota offers enhanced coverage which is not just for the battery pack but also for the Inverter and Power Management Control ECU. Customers also have the option of extending full coverage for a further 2 years.

For protection of the vehicle from theft, UMW Toyota Motor installs a Vehicle Telematics System (VTS) which can track its location using GPS/GSM networks.

SUPPORTING GOVERNMEN T’S COMMITMEN T
UMW Toyota Motor’s investment in local assembly of hybrid electric vehicles is timely as it supports the Malaysian government’s commitment to reduce the intensity of greenhouse gas emission across the economy by 45% in 2030. This commitment will be made at the coming United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) COP 26 in Scotland at the end of this month.

The increased use of vehicles with hybrid electric technology will reduce emissions of carbon dioxide (CO2), which has been proven by the millions of hybrid vehicles sold worldwide by Toyota since 1997. Together, these vehicles have saved more than 118 million tonnes of CO2, compared to the emissions that would be generated by equivalent petrol-powered cars. Additionally, they also generate extremely low oxides of nitrogen (NOx) which is another pollutant that damages air quality.

“Even before COP26, Toyota has been actively working on reducing emissions from vehicles and the solution has not been just by full electrification. Depending on each country’s conditions, the approaches taken are different to ensure that no customer is left behind. In the case of Malaysia, Hybrid Electric Technology is the most suitable and Toyota offers the best and most advanced technology because we have been developing it since the late 1990s,” said Akio Takeyama.

“The reduction of CO2 emissions from having more hybrid vehicles on the road in Malaysia will help to meet the Malaysian government’s commitment to cut greenhouse gases, as well as contribute to Toyota’s own goal of achieving carbon neutrality by 2050 in all its products and activities,” he added.

MOVING FORWARD
The company is also pleased with the support that the government is giving to the automotive industry with two key provisions announced by the Finance Minister during the presentation of Budget 2022.

The continuation of the exemption of Sales & Service Tax (SST) until 30 June 2022 from 31 December 2021 will certainly be helpful in maintaining the momentum of sales as the market recovers. As many consumers have been financially impacted by the pandemic, the savings they can enjoy by not having to pay SST (or paying 50% in the case of imported CBU models) on new vehicle purchases is welcomed.

The company is also happy to note that the government will provide meaningful support to the industry to start developing the EV (Electric Vehicle) sector. With full exemption on all duties and sales tax for EVs, as well as road tax, we believe that this will enable them to be priced more attractively and increase usage of such zero emissions vehicles.

Income tax relief of up to RM2,500 for individuals who incur expenditures on facilities related to EVs as well as EV usage will also help to encourage more Malaysians to switch to EVs. As more EVs are put on the roads, air pollution can be reduced and at the same time, dependence on fossil fuels will also diminish.

On its part, UMW Toyota Motor has already started the first phase of its electrification programme with the local assembly of Hybrid Electric Vehicles. The company and its principal, Toyota Motor Corporation, shares the same objective of reducing carbon emissions in the longer term and our approach is one which we believe to be the best approach at this time so that no customer is left behind.

“The recovery of the market has been strong as people who had to defer their purchases earlier are now coming to showrooms to place their orders. Our order bank has been steadily growing and our two plants are working at maximum speed to deliver as many vehicles as possible so that customers do not have to wait long,” said President of UMW Toyota Motor, Ravindran K.

Mr. Ravindran added that the ongoing promotions are also drawing many customers who recognize that great deals are being offered. At the same time, those who make their purchases before the end of this year also save on the sales and service tax (SST) which has been exempted by the government.

Customers can enjoy additional savings with Toyota Service Savers (TSS) when they take a loan from UMW Toyota Motor’s financing partners. TSS covers all servicing requirements for the vehicle at the recommended intervals and includes all fluids and required replacement parts. Vehicle owners can redeem at all authorized Toyota service centres nationwide (terms and conditions apply).