Author: Chathura Chanuka

  • |

    Over 10 tons! Super heavyweight ultimate off-roader wins the bid at Toyota “RAV4” price ! What kind of thing is it .

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Over 10 tons! Sold for the price of a Toyota “”RAV4″”, the ultimate off-roader in the super-heavyweight class! What kind of product is it?
    Tuesday, July 12, 19:10

    Ultimate Off-Roader from British Army for $4 Million
    　Collecting Cars is an auction site of the same name run by its own company, and is an auctioneer of cars from all over the world, including Arab, French, and Japanese.

    That’s a stiff tank, and it’s cheap! View 35 images of the “”Stormer HVM,”” a military vehicle with a total weight of 12 tons.

    　In June 2022, Alvis “”Stormer HVM (High Velocity Missile)”” was offered for sale and sold for 24,750 pounds (about 4 million yen), but what kind of vehicle is it?

    Alvis “”Stormer HVM (High Velocity Missile)”” sold for approximately 4 million yen (photo: Collecting cars)

    　The Stormer auctioned this time is a missile pod with anti-aircraft missiles that belonged to the British Army.

    　The manufacturer of this vehicle, Alvis, was a British manufacturer of civilian and military vehicles, but no longer exists.

    　The missile system on board is also deactivated and unusable, but a deactivation certificate is available and the vehicle was registered in the UK in 2012 so that it can be driven on public roads.

    　The engine is a 6.0-liter inline 6-cylinder diesel turbo engine mated to a David Brown TN15D transmission with 7 forward and 7 reverse speeds, producing a maximum output of approximately 253 hp.

    　Total weight is approximately 12 tons, with a maximum speed of approximately 80 km/h and a maximum range of 643 km with a full tank of fuel.

    　The interior features three hydraulic seats for the driver, gunner, and commander. There is also a fold-down seat for the passenger.

    　With the exception of a large crowbar, fire extinguisher, rope, and shackles, the exterior tools and equipment are being sold as original.

    　The body has been repainted and is in very clean condition.

    　The sale area is Daventry, Northamptonshire, England.

    　This vehicle is listed on the auction site along with 117 high quality images plus a video, which shows the vehicle in considerable detail.

    　The Stormer was sold on June 22, 2022 for 24,750 pounds (about 4 million yen) after 43 bids.

    　At 4 million yen, this is the price of a new Toyota RAV4, Mazda CX-60, or Nissan Serena in Japan.

    “

  • GT-R face “luxury sedan” released! The new “HiPhi Z” with a total length of 5m is too amazing ! Announcing a model over 10 million yen in China!

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “GT-R face “”luxury sedan”” revealed! The new 5-meter-long “”HiPhi Z”” is too much! Model priced over 10 million yen unveiled in China!

    4,066 LEDs installed on the outside of the car can communicate with the outside of the car! Ultra-High-Performance Near-Future Sedan to Debut in China
    　On July 5, 2022, the emerging Chinese EV manufacturer Human Horizons announced details of its HiPhi “”Z”” and began taking advance orders.

    The name is “”Z”” and the face is GT-R-like? View 18 images of the HiPhi “”Z”” ultra-high-performance sedan.

    　This car is said to be an all-new take on the traditional grand touring car, and to be equipped with cutting-edge technology to create an unparalleled next-generation driving experience. What kind of car is it?

    The HiPhi “”Z”” ultra-high-performance EV from emerging EV manufacturer Human Horizons

    　Human Horizons is an emerging EV manufacturer founded in 2017 that develops and produces new energy vehicles with the “”three smart strategies”” of smart cars, smart transportation, and smart cities. The EV brand developed by Human Horizons is HiPhi.

    　The HiPhi “”Z”” being developed by the company was presented this time. It is a four-door sedan that offers an unparalleled next-generation driving experience by completely redesigning the traditional grand touring car and incorporating cutting-edge technology.

    　On the exterior, the passenger car features the world’s first wraparound sterling ISD light curtain composed of 4,066 LEDs, allowing occupants and driver to interact with the world around them.

    　The doors are equipped with ultra-wideband wireless (UWB) communication technology that can be positioned in 10 cm increments, automatically detecting people, keys, and other vehicles and adjusting the speed and angle at which the doors open.

    　The grille features Active Air Grille Shutters (AGS), which work in conjunction with the rear spoiler and wings to automatically adjust vehicle drag and reduce lift to improve overall performance.

    　The interior expresses a futuristic spaceship-like design with ultra-suede bio-galaxy fabrics, flowing ambient light panels, a Meridian audio system with 23 speakers, and racing bucket seats.

    　The car also features HiPhi Bot, a state-of-the-art AI companion that automatically supports every aspect of the driving and passenger experience.

    　HiPhi Bot not only combines lighting, feel, sound, and scent to create an immersive and comfortable environment, it can also interact with passengers.

    　It is equipped with the world’s only monitor with a high-speed motion robotic arm for vehicles, allowing the monitor position to be adjusted to a variety of sensitive angles.
    　
    　The Z’s ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance System) features the in-house developed HiPhi Pilot system, utilizing the NVIDIA Orin X chip + QNX Neutrino real-time operating system (RTOS), and constantly scanning the surrounding environment with 34 sensors and LiDAR technology. The chassis is made of all-aluminum.

    　The chassis combines an all-aluminum double wishbone front suspension, five-link rear suspension, air suspension, and Continuous Damping Control (CDC) continuously variable dampers.

    　In addition, the rear-wheel steering and IVC dynamic control system provides a total rear-wheel steering angle of 13.2 degrees on both sides, and the turning radius is only 5.7 meters despite the car’s overall length of over 5 meters.

    　The Z is powered by a 120 kWh high-performance battery pack with CTP (Cell to Pack) technology, has a cruising range of 705 km, and accelerates from 0-100 km/h in 3.8 seconds.

    　The Z is priced from 600,000 (approximately 1,250,000 yen) to 800,000 RMB (approximately 1,634,000 yen). Pre-orders are being taken as soon as the announcement is made on July 5, the day of the launch.

    　Ding Lei, founder, CEO, and chairman of Human Horizons, had the following to say about the car

    The Z is uniquely designed and built by Human Horizons and represents a technological breakthrough for our company. No expense has been spared to test the limits of creativity, and the Z retains more than 95% of the concepts that have been revealed through rigorous testing and development.””

    Translated with www.DeepL.com/Translator (free version)”

  • |

    Improved off-road performance with vehicle height age! Toyota’s new “Hilux Rogue” too wild improved in Australia .

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Higher ride height and improved off-road performance! Too Wild New Toyota “”Hilux Rogue”” Improved in Australia

    Improved off-road and on-road performance
    　On July 6, 2022, Toyota’s Australian subsidiary announced that it will upgrade its Hilux Rogue pickup truck.

    The over fenders are radical! The new Toyota “”Hilux Rogue”” in Australia is full of power.

    The wide body of the new Toyota Hilux Rogue (Australian specifications)

    　The dual-cab version of the new Hilux Rogue has approximately 140mm more tread and 20mm more ride height at the front and rear. This improves both off-road and on-road performance.

    　The front suspension arms and stabilizer bar have been extended and the shock absorber angle adjusted to improve efficiency, while the rear axle length has been extended and the dampers have been moved to the wheel side, and for the first time on a Hilux, a rear stabilizer bar has been installed for cornering This has resulted in improved cornering stability and ride comfort.

    　This suspension change has improved roll rigidity by 20%. Steering feel when cornering and changing lanes has been improved.

    　The Hilux Rogue also has improved braking performance, with a new rear ventilated disc brake replacing the conventional drum brake. In addition, new 17-inch front disc brakes, which are 1-inch larger, are used.

    　Externally, wide track over fenders and mud guards are fitted, and the front body extensions have been widened to integrate with the front bumper.

    * * *

    　Other grades have also been upgraded to meet the new specifications of the HILUX Rogue.

    The SR Extra Cab/Double Cab grade features new black 17-inch aluminum wheels in place of steel wheels. The door handles are now body-colored, giving the SR5 Double Cab a more premium look.

    The SR5 Double Cab comes standard with a blind-spot monitor and rear cross-traffic alert for safer driving. These features are also available on the Rogue.

    　The SR5 Double Cab also adds a panoramic view monitor to help maneuver in tight spots and paddle lamps that replace the heated exterior mirrors.

    　In addition, the steering column lock has been replaced with an anti-theft immobilizer “”ID box”” on the SR5 and higher grade AT models for added safety when starting the vehicle with the smart key.

    Translated with www.DeepL.com/Translator (free version)”

  • |

    Runway blockage ! GR Yaris unveiled powerful driving! GR & JAL’s unique collaboration event will be held at Tajima Airport!

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Runway blocked! GR Yaris makes its powerful driving debut! GR & JAL’s unique collaboration event was held at Tajima Airport!

    Runway blocked off, GR Yaris blasts off for demo run!
    　On July 9, 2022, TOYOTA GAZOO Racing (TGR) and JAL held a collaboration event at Tajima Stork Airport (Hyogo Prefecture).

    GR Yaris blasts off on the runway! Look at how powerful it is!

    The runway was blocked off and a ride-along in a GR Yaris was held (image courtesy of TOYOTA GAZOO Racing).

    　This event was the first of many to be held under the theme of “”Promoting the Japanese community and motorsports””.

    　On the day of the event, the “”JAL x TGR FLY & RIDE OUTDOOR FESTIVAL”” will be held at the Stork Tajima Airport.

    　TGR held a ride-along with the “”GR Yaris”” and a demo run of the “”Yaris WRC,”” which participates in the WRC (World Rally Championship).

    　The six winners of the rock-paper-scissors contest took turns riding in the Yaris, and experienced professional driving by Yuhi Sekiguchi and Harunan Sakaguchi, who both compete in the Super GT series. Water was sprayed on the runway, and the two GR Yaris, one in black and the other in white, splashed around and showed off their powerful driving skills.

    　Although the participants looked nervous, they were satisfied with this valuable experience, saying “”It was a great experience to see the professional skills right next to me,”” “”It was fun to experience the speed,”” and “”It felt good to drive on a large field.

    　When the driver appeared on the stage and started the engine, the participants gave a loud applause and cheered for the first time today, enjoying the powerful driving experience that they usually cannot see up close.

    　Participants seemed excited to be able to enter the cockpit of a JAL aircraft (JAC/ATR), which they are not usually allowed to enter, saying “”I didn’t know there were so many switches”” and “”It’s so real.

    　The children who were nervous to try their hand at making in-flight announcements smiled and said, “”That was fun! and smiles on their faces.

    　In the “”cabin attendant experience”” held in the hangar, flight attendants practiced in-flight announcements and gave lectures on serving meals and drinks to passengers. Participants seemed happy to be able to experience the actual work of a cabin attendant.

    　One person who actually participated in the event said, “”I found this event and applied for it as soon as I found out about it because I and my husband love vehicles. It was a dream come true to be able to ride on the runway in the GR Yaris. It was a great collaboration between an airplane and my favorite car.

    　The demo run on the runway, which is rarely seen, and the experience of riding in the actual aircraft made the event enjoyable for both children and adults.”

  • |

    A flood of reservations with a limited number of 500 units! The spirit of the special machine “GRMN Yaris” can be injected into GR Yaris !? High expectations for “GRMN parts”

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Limited to 500 units and a flood of reservations! The spirit of the special machine “”GRMN Yaris”” can be injected into the GR Yaris! High expectations for “”GRMN Parts

    Over 10,000 Reservations Flooded for Limited Number of 500 GRMN Yaris!
    The “”GRMN Yaris,”” a limited-quantity model first unveiled at the Tokyo Auto Salon 2022 and scheduled to go on sale in the summer of 2022, has received 12,000 to 13,000 business applications for the limited edition of 500 units.

    GRMN Yaris owners drool over the GRMN Yaris and special GRMN parts .

    Over 10,000 Reservations Flooded for Limited Number of 500 GRMN Yaris!
    The “”GRMN Yaris,”” a limited-quantity model first unveiled at the Tokyo Auto Salon 2022 and scheduled to go on sale in the summer of 2022, has received 12,000 to 13,000 business applications for the limited edition of 500 units.

    GRMN Yaris owners drool over the GRMN Yaris and special GRMN parts

    We hear that the winners have been contacted and the contracts are going well. Of course, there are some cancellations, so some people have been notified of their winners being moved up, but the author (Shinya Yamamoto) has yet to hear from any of them.

    Circuit driving is fun! Toyota’s “”GRMN Yaris,”” a limited edition of 500 units for which more than 10,000 people have expressed their wishes.

    　Yes, the author has also applied for a GRMN Yaris business meeting.

    　When I mentioned this to a colleague, he said, “”Shinya-san is sure to win, isn’t he? I had faint hopes, but the GR is not a sweet car.

    　In other words, a strict lottery was conducted. So, those who didn’t win can only watch with their fingers in their mouths.

    　No, that is not true. Those who applied for the GRMN Yaris, including myself, received a letter from President Akio Toyoda, which reads as follows (parentheses in parentheses are my addition).

    The letter reads, “”For those who will soon have a GRMN Yaris as a partner, please feel the potential of this car on the race circuit, as it is a vehicle that can be used as is in motorsports.

    　Also, for those of you who unfortunately do not, we will be selling GR parts (GRMN parts) that will allow you to feel the ‘drive’ and ‘throb’ of the GRMN Yaris (catalog model), so please enjoy it.””

    　What kind of GRMN parts lineup do you have in store?

    　The development theme is simply “”opening up the GRMN””.

    　However, it is not just a horizontal development of parts for the GRMN Yaris, but rather tuning with professional drivers to best suit the GR Yaris, taking into consideration differences in tires, body reinforcement, and vehicle weight.

    　The “”carbon fiber hood”” and “”carbon fiber wing”” are available for the exterior.

    　The carbon fiber hood is not only lighter in weight, but also has additional ducts for better cooling effect.

    　The carbon wing is one of the items that I personally have been waiting for.

    　In fact, the front, side, and rear underspoilers installed on the GRMN Yaris Circuit Package are commercially available as GR parts for the GR Yaris, and many GR Yaris owners, including myself, have installed them, but I was concerned that the aerodynamic balance was slightly toward the front. It is a good news that such aerodynamic balance can be optimized.

    Limited to 500 units and a flood of reservations! The spirit of the special machine “”GRMN Yaris”” can be injected into the GR Yaris! High expectations for “”GRMN Parts

    Expectations are very high, and so are hopes.
    　The interior features an ultrasuede steering wheel/side brake lever and a shift knob. This is similar in design to the GRMN Yaris, but is actually an exclusive item with a different stitching pattern.

    　In addition, Recaro full bucket seats are also available. These have the same shape as the seats installed in the GRMN Yaris, but unfortunately, the stitching is only “”red.

    　In fact, the GR Yaris, except for the special edition “”First Edition”” with emotional interior, comes with silver stitching, so the interior coordination is not quite right.

    　In addition, those who have selected the optional heated seats will not be able to use the function.

    Toyota’s GRMN Yaris “”Rally Package”” undergoing test driving on a dirt course.

    　As for the mechanical part, a “”suspension kit”” featuring Bilstein damping force-adjustable dampers has been added to the lineup.

    　The kit is a special setup that takes into account the differences in the body of the GR Yaris (which has fewer spot welds than the GRMN Yaris) and the tires used (Michelin Pilot Sport 4S).

    　Incidentally, the author has not driven the GRMN Yaris on public roads, but when asked by development drivers Hiroaki Ishiura and Kazuya Oshima, they told me, “”The ride is more comfortable than you might imagine.

    　If this is the case, the author is also very curious to know how this suspension rides. The cross transmission and low final gear of the GRMN Yaris are already available as GR parts for competition use.

    　The lineup will be announced around the summer of 2022.

    　Does this mean that there will be more to come?

    * * * * * * * * *

    　Finally, as a GR Yaris user, I have a few requests.

    　Two years have passed since its release, and various parts have been released by third parties. That is why I would like to see more GRMN parts that “”only a manufacturer can make! For example, we would like to see more items that can only be made by the manufacturer.

    　For example, power output/torque increase by updating powertrain control, or body reinforcement items that approach GRMN’s body rigidity. A device like the Lexus RC F that uses GPS to cut the limiter only on circuits, or an app that allows the driver to check various vehicle information using the display audio system, and so on.

    　Furthermore, I would like to see items that not only bring the Yaris closer to the GRMN Yaris, but also further utilize the good points of the GR Yaris.

    　Incidentally, I use the GR Yaris as a “”high-speed express”” when traveling to various circuits for interviews, so I don’t want other performance (especially comfort performance) to be sacrificed in order to improve the driving performance.

    　For example, even if a cross-transmission and low final gear are adopted, why not use the same gear ratio for the 6th gear as in the normal model to provide comfort for high-speed cruising?

    　Also, in order to make the most of the high quality JBL audio system that comes as standard equipment in the RZ “”High performance”” model, we would like to see sound insulation parts that minimize the weight increase.

    　We would be happy to see an item like this that offers both high performance and comfort.

    * * *

    　So, what will the author do?

    　It would be a bit frustrating to make it a “”GRMN Yaris Replica”” by fully installing GRMN parts, so I would like to make it the one and only “”Yamamoto Edition”” while examining GRMN parts and third party parts.

    　The theme is to successfully add the driving pleasure of the GRMN Yaris without compromising the comfort and convenience of the GR Yaris as a road car (JBL audio, Toyota Safety Sense, etc.). We will report on this as well when we have a chance.

    Shinya Yamamoto”

  • |

    Toyota small SUV “Van-dwelling at Yaris Cross” Is it really possible ! The key is in the “board of the luggage compartment” .

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Is it seriously possible to stay overnight in a Toyota small SUV “”Yaris Cross””! The key is in the “”cargo area board

    It’s Only for One Person…but Staying in a Car is Plenty Possible with the “”Yaris Cross
    　Toyota’s compact SUV Yaris Cross, with its manageable size of less than 4.2 meters in length and easy city driving, has been very popular since its launch in August 2020.
    　
    　Although the Yaris Cross is very small in size, one person may somehow be able to “”stay overnight”” in the car.

    “”Small but with a highly arranged cargo area!”” See 36 photos of the cargo room and interior of the Yaris Cross, a compact SUV with good usability.

    Overall length of just under 4.2 meters! Can you stay overnight in a car with Toyota’s popular compact SUV, the Yaris Cross!

    　The Toyota Yaris Cross is one of the most popular models in Toyota’s lineup of SUVs of various sizes, consistently competing for the TOP sales share.

    　Two types of powertrains are available: a 1.5-liter inline 3-cylinder gasoline “”Dynamic Force”” engine and a 1.5-liter engine combined with a hybrid system. Each is available in 2WD (FF) and 4WD (E-Four for the hybrid) models.

    　The hybrid model in particular boasts fuel economy that is far superior to its rivals, with the X (FWD) model’s catalog fuel economy of 30.8 km/L and the E-Four model’s 28.7 km/L (both WLTC mode fuel economy).

    　Based on the platform of the compact car “”Yaris,”” the Yaris was given an SUV body measuring 4180 mm (length) x 1765 mm (width) x 1590 mm (height) to expand rear-seat and cargo space.

    　Compared to the Yaris, which had a split front-seat-oriented packaging, the Yaris Cross attracted support from family and outdoor-oriented users by maintaining its small size and greatly increasing its practicality.

    　According to Toyota, in developing the Yaris Cross, special attention was paid to securing cargo space within the limited space available.

    　Although it varies depending on the drive system and grade, the maximum cargo capacity is approximately 390 liters (according to Toyota’s measurements) for a five-passenger capacity. When the rear seats are folded forward, the maximum cargo capacity is approximately 1102 liters, which is ample for loading.

    　The backrests of the rear seats are 4:2:4 split-foldable, and can be arranged in detail, for example, to carry a long, narrow ski board by moving the middle seat forward.

    　The cargo area floor is equipped with a “”6:4 split adjustable deck board,”” allowing the cargo area floor height to be adjusted in two positions.

    　When the deck board is in the lower position, taller cargo can be loaded. The upper deck board can be set to the upper position and the rear seat backrests can be fully folded down to create a flat cargo area floor.

    　With the deck board in the upper position and fully flat, the cargo area of the Yaris Cross can be used as a bed for overnight stays in the car.

    　When the rear seats are folded forward and the front seats are slid to the most forward position, the maximum length of the Yaris Cross’ cargo area is 1740 mm.

    　Even if it is impossible for a person in the 180cm height class to sleep in it as it is, it is possible for one such large person to somehow lay down in it if it is slanted.

    　However, in actual conditions, the cargo area floor is not completely flat, and the backrests of the rear seats remain at an angle.

    　Also, the minimum head height of the cargo area is 732mm in the rear luggage area, which should be taken into consideration when using the vehicle for overnight stays.

    　In the case of the compact Yaris Cross, it should be considered as a simple one-person bed, even for overnight stays in a car.

    　However, the simplicity and comfort level in sheltering from rain and wind cannot be compared to a small one-person tent designed for motorcycle touring or mountain climbing.

    The tent is a minimalist tent with yaris crosses.

    　Even if you enjoy a minimalist overnight stay in a car with Yaris Cross, it is necessary to devise ways to increase comfort.

    　Among these, an inflatable camping mat is a must-have item.

    　Also, privacy shades that cover the entire surface of the windows are available exclusively for Yaris Cross at car accessory stores and online stores. By acquiring these items, you can create a comfortable overnight stay environment in your car.

    Translated with www.DeepL.com/Translator (free version)”

  • | |

    BMW “i3” discontinued, final model “Home Run Edition” .

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “BMW i3s Production Ends, Final “”Home Run Edition”” Model [Detailed Photos] 07:30, Sunday, July 10, 2022

    BMW announced on June 30 that 10 units of the final model of the i3 EV, the “”Home Run Edition,”” have come off the line, ending production of the car. i3, BMW’s first full-scale mass-produced EV, has ended its history after producing approximately 250,000 units after 8.5 years of production since its launch.

    The Home Run Edition is based on the i3s. The motor produces a maximum output of 184hp and maximum torque of 27.5kgm. Dynamic performance is 0-100 km/h acceleration in 6.9 seconds and a top speed of 150 km/h (with the limiter activated).

    New BMW Individual paint finishes include Frozen Dark Gray and Frozen Red 2. Underfoot, the car is complemented by 20-inch aluminum wheels with a double-spoke design.

    An electric glass roof, solar control glazing, and adaptive LED headlights are also included. Also included is a leather interior called Vernasca Dark Truffle, leather instrument panel, leather steering wheel with galvanized trim, Calum Gray roof lining, ambient lighting, and welcome lights.

    Translated with www.DeepL.com/Translator (free version)”

  • |

    Toyota “Highlander” 2023 model announced in Europe … RAV4’s big brother medium-sized SUV

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Toyota Highlander 2023 model announced in Europe…Midsize SUV, big brother of the RAV4
    Newly developed “”Toyota Smart Connect”” multimedia system

    12.3-inch digital meters in front of the driver

    Western European versions are hybrid-only

    Friday, July 8, 2022, 7:30 p.m.

    On July 5, Toyota Motor Corporation’s European division announced the 2023 model year of the Toyota Highlander. The midsize SUV, the big brother of the RAV4, is receiving its first update since it was first launched in the European market in 2021.

    ◆New “”Toyota Smart Connect”” multimedia system

    A new color, Cypress Green Metallic, is available as an option for the 2023 model year. Newly shaped 20-inch gloss black aluminum wheels are also available. The interior is now available with beige and ochre leather seat options.

    A newly developed “”Toyota Smart Connect”” multimedia system will be employed. This gives the driver access to a 12.3-inch touchscreen high-definition display, cloud-based navigation with real-time traffic information, voice assistance, and other features. Cloud navigation can be accessed without pairing a smartphone and at no additional cost.

    Higher grades will be equipped with Toyota Smart Connect+, an in-car navigation system that allows users to plan routes at times and locations where cloud connectivity is not available. This includes 3D city maps, road sign recognition, and Orbis location information.

    ◆12.3-inch digital meters in front of the driver

    The new system allows the driver to remotely lock and unlock the doors, flash the hazard lights, etc. In addition to wireless smartphone connectivity via Apple “”Car Play””, wired connectivity via Google’s “”Android Auto”” is available. All models are equipped with a wireless charging tray in the front console.

    A new 12.3-inch digital meter display in front of the driver is introduced. The display is said to create the effect of a three-dimensional recessed meter cluster that allows the driver to customize the display style from four design themes: Casual, Smart, Tough, and Sport, according to his or her preference.

    As an advanced driver assistance system (ADAS), the latest Toyota Safety Sense is standard on all models. The system includes the Pre-Collision System, which detects vehicles and pedestrians (daytime and nighttime) and bicycles (daytime) to assist collision avoidance and mitigate damage; Lane Tracing Assist (LTA), which assists driving maneuvers necessary to maintain lane control when radar cruise control is activated; and the Lane Tracing Assist System, which displays road signs recognized by cameras in the Road Sign Assist (RSA), which displays camera-recognized road signs on the multi-information display to encourage safe driving.

    ◆Western European-specification models are hybrid-only.
    In accordance with Toyota’s European strategy, the powertrain for the Western European version is a hybrid only. It is equipped with a new-generation hybrid system consisting of a TNGA direct injection 2.5-liter inline four-cylinder gasoline “”D-4S”” engine and motor. The system also pursues better response when the driver steps on the accelerator pedal and smoother acceleration characteristics.

    The entire system, including the engine and motor, delivers 248hp of power, accelerates from 0 to 100km/h in 8.3 seconds, and reaches a top speed of 180km/h. The maximum speed in EV mode is 125km/h. The driver can select from ECO, NORMAL, SPORT, and TRAIL driving modes at the touch of a switch. The environmental performance is rated at 15% fuel economy and 15% fuel economy. Environmental performance features include fuel economy of 15.1 km/liter and CO2 emissions of 149 g/km (both WLTP cycle).

    In addition, the AWD-i 4WD system was adopted. A newly developed rear transaxle is employed to increase the maximum torque at the rear wheels. The torque distribution between the front and rear wheels varies between 100 to 0 and 20 to 80, depending on driving conditions.

    Translated with www.DeepL.com/Translator (free version)”

  • |

    The luxury minivan war is reheating !The next model of the “Alphard” will be released in 2023, what is the evolution of the “King of luxury minivan”?

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Luxury Minivan War Heats Up Again! The next model of the “”Alphard”” will appear in 2023, and what the evolving “”King of Luxury Minivan”” will look likeJul. 8, 2022

    The photo shows the current model of the special edition “”S Type Gold III”” Toyota Alphard that debuted in April. The photo shows the special edition “”S Type Gold III”” Vellfire, which was introduced in April. Will the model finally be discontinued? The photo shows the “”Golden Eyes III”” and “”Vellfire,”” which arrived in April. Will the model finally be discontinued? Photo shows the “”Goldeneyes III,”” which climbed the mountain in April.
    Toyota’s luxury minivan “”Alphard”” is expected to undergo a full model change in 2023. In the same year, Nissan’s “”Elgrand”” is also expected to get a new model, and the luxury minivan war may heat up again. The following is the latest information on the next-generation Alphard, as captured by the scoop site Spyder7.

    How will the “”King of Luxury Minivans”” evolve?
    The current Toyota Alphard. The photo shows the special edition “”S Type Gold III”” that was introduced in April.
    The current 3rd generation Alphard/Vellfire (30 series) was launched in 2015, and has become larger and more luxurious compared to the 2nd generation model, greatly surpassing its rival Nissan Elgrand, which is now the “”King of Luxury Minivans”” in Japan and other Asian countries. It is now the “”King of Luxury Minivans”” not only in Japan but also in Asia.

    The fourth generation (40 series), the next model, will adopt the latest generation “”TNGA”” platform, which is said to improve the living space and realize stable high-speed driving without changing the overall length and wheelbase size.

    The powertrain lineup includes a 2.5-liter inline 4-cylinder Dynamic Force engine with improved thermal efficiency, a newly developed 2.4-liter inline 4-cylinder gasoline turbo engine, and a 2.5-liter inline 4-cylinder Dynamic Force engine + motor The hybrid lineup includes a 2.5-liter inline 4-cylinder Dynamic Force engine + motor. The hybrid adopts the latest generation “”E-Four”” all-wheel drive system.

    The second-generation “”Toyota Safety Sense”” (Toyota Safety Sense) will definitely be standard equipment on all models.

    Predicted design of the next-generation Alphard
    Predicted CG of the next Toyota Alphard
    CG of the next Toyota Alphard
    We have made a forecast of the exterior of the next model of the Alphard. The distinctive feature is the front mask. The imposing front end, which gives the impression of intimidation, will evolve in a more stylish direction. The headlights have an inverted L-shaped design, which is a trend among Toyota vehicles, and chrome parts create a sense of unity with the grille. The sides of the bumper are more reminiscent of the current model, with a more pronounced opening. This is a clear differentiation from the “”Alphard-ized”” Noah.

    The side of the body has three-dimensional character lines with pronounced edges, creating a sense of high quality. The front and rear tire housings are boldly bulged to give the impression of good driving performance, and at the same time, to create a greater impact than the size of the vehicle.

    VELLFIRE”” as an Alphard grade?
    The world premiere of the next-generation Alphard is expected in 2023. It is likely to clash in the market with the Elgrand, which is expected to appear in the same year. We will bring you the latest information on the Elgrand as soon as we catch it. There are also reports that the Vellfire, a sibling of the Elgrand, will be discontinued in the next model year, and will be offered as a grade of the Alphard. In any case, we look forward to the evolution of the King.”

  • |

    A must-see for Hilux owners, North American classic cargo carrier system landed in Japan .

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “A Must for Hilux Owners, North American Standard Cargo Carrier System Arrives in Japan.

    LEITNER DESIGNS Cargo Carrier SystemHydroPODGearPOD and GearBAGCarriers made of military-grade high-quality aluminumLEITNER DESIGNS Cargo Carrier System
    Exisle Line has signed a sole agency agreement with North American truck accessory brand LEITNER DESIGNS for Japan, and will begin sales on July 8.

    LEITNER DESIGNS, a staple among pickup truck users in North America, is a cargo carrier system that further enriches life with pickup trucks. The carrier, made of high-quality military-grade aluminum, is designed specifically for use with Toyota Hilux, Tacoma, Jeep Gladiator, and other pickup trucks. By installing the carrier and combining it with your favorite tools, you can dramatically increase storage capacity and ease of use.

    The lineup also includes the GearPOD, a storage box that protects cargo from dust and rain, the HydroPOD, a pump-operated shower that is convenient when out and about, and the GearBAG, a storage bag with removable handles that can be carried around. The HydroPOD, in particular, looks sleek but has a large 22-liter capacity. The 6-meter-long hose can also be used to clean the front of the car and the undercarriage.

    LEITNER DESIGNS products will be available at EXIZZLE-LINE’s website specializing in imported outdoor products, as well as at various car dealers and maintenance stores.

    “