Similar Posts

  • | | |

    Nissan is airing an original commercial for its new light EV “Sakura” in collaboration with SILENT.

    Get ready for the highly anticipated conclusion of the captivating drama “SILENT” tonight! Keep an eye out for the stunning lineup of Nissan vehicles that add an extra layer of realism to the show’s compelling narrative. The final episode of “SILENT,” airing on December 22, 2022, marks the culmination of the emotional journey of its protagonists, portrayed by the talented Haruna Kawaguchi and Ren Meguro (Snow Man).

    The heart of the story revolves around Tsumugi Aoha, portrayed by Haruna Kawaguchi, as she reunites with her long-lost high school love, Sou Sakura, portrayed by Ren Meguro. The tale weaves a poignant yet heartwarming love story that has captured the attention of viewers everywhere.

    One of the automotive stars of the show is the captivating pink “March,” an attention-grabbing vehicle driven by Sou Sakura’s mother, Ritsuko, played by Ryoko Shinohara. This Nissan “March” makes a striking appearance in pivotal moments of the drama. It is a vehicle that symbolizes a journey back in time, as it’s set in a scene from eight years ago, specifically 2014. To accurately capture that era, the production team opted for the third generation “K12” model (2002-2010) rather than the more contemporary fourth generation (2010 to August 2022). This choice not only resonates with the period but also enhances the portrayal of a typical family car of that time.

    Social media buzzed with admiration for the meticulous attention to detail in the show’s production. Comments ranged from remarks about the authenticity of the aged headlights on the mother’s March to the nostalgic presence it brought to the scenes. The car itself managed to encapsulate not just the era but also the essence of a regular household.

    As the narrative progresses, we witness the passage of time through Ritsuko’s changing car choices. Eight years later, when she accompanies Sou to the train station, her vehicle of choice has evolved to a Nissan “Note.” This time, it’s not the current model (introduced in 2020) but its predecessor, the second-generation model (2012-2020). A striking, vivid red color graces this new addition to her automotive journey.

    The seamless transition from the March to the Note was noted by many viewers, who praised the realistic decision, with comments such as “March evolved into a Note” and “From a Nissan March 8 years ago to a Nissan Note today, even the model changed!” This change in vehicle reinforces the show’s commitment to authenticity and the passage of time.

    One distinctive aspect of “SILENT” is that it is generously sponsored by Nissan, which allows for the unobstructed display of their emblem on the featured vehicles. Unlike some shows where car emblems are hidden, “SILENT” proudly showcases the Nissan emblem on its automobiles, underscoring the collaboration.

    Even the background vehicles make a statement, as an astute viewer might spot a Nissan Serena minivan parked at a roundabout. Although an e-POWER variant not available in 2014, this Serena still adds an extra layer of Nissan’s presence to the scene.

    Nissan takes this opportunity to further connect with the audience by presenting an original commercial featuring their latest light EV, the “Sakura.” This collaboration with “SILENT” enhances the relevance of the drama by having Mako Yokoi, played by Souko Fujima and Tsumugi’s best friend, experience the unique acceleration and “ProPilot Parking” support system of the new Sakura EV. A sentimental touch is added when she exclaims “Tsumugi!” towards the film’s end, a treat for fans of the show.

    The serendipity of Ren Meguro’s surname, “Sakura,” aligns perfectly with the promotional efforts for Nissan’s new Sakura EV, tying the actor’s name to this exciting new automotive innovation. As the drama reaches its conclusion, the synergy between “SILENT” and Nissan has created an unforgettable and immersive experience for viewers.

  • |

    Nissan’s European division has unveiled the Black Edition a special edition of the Qashqai e-POWER crossover SUV

    Nissan’s European division has unveiled the Black Edition, a special edition of the Qashqai e-POWER crossover SUV. This special edition incorporates black parts, with the exterior paired with a black roof on the Pearl White or Ceramic Gray body colors and a gray roof on the Black body color. In addition, black five-spoke wheels are fitted on all models to give the car a darker look underfoot. The front doors feature a kick plate with the QASHQAI logo, and the windshield is equipped with a heads-up display. Also optional is the Tech & Connect Pack, which includes full LED lights, adaptive driving beams, and a wireless charging pad for smartphones; an option pack that includes a panoramic roof and roof rails; heated front seats and heated steering wheel, Cold Pack, a cold-weather version with a heated windscreen, is available. The e-POWER in the Qashqai is powered by a 1.5-liter three-cylinder turbocharged engine with a variable compression ratio mechanism that produces 156 horsepower and feeds power to a high-output battery pack via an inverter to drive an electric motor.

  • | |

    Toyota’s new SUV “bZ4X” to further expand sales!

    “Toyota’s new SUV “”bZ4X”” to further expand sales! Application Fee Halved and Fee Revised: Will it Become a Familiar Presence?

    Fees Revised as Applications Reopen
     KINTO, a Toyota vehicle subscriber service provider, announced on October 26, 2022, that it has revised its rates for the Toyota bZ4X, a dedicated subscriber vehicle.

    The new Toyota bZ4X with novel design.

     In addition, the company also resumed accepting applications on the same day, which had been suspended due to a recall report.

     The bZ4X is the first model in Toyota’s “”bZ Series”” of electric vehicles (EVs), but what are its features?

     The bZ4X concept model made its world premiere at the Shanghai Motor Show 2021 on April 19, 2021, and the details of the Japanese version were revealed on October 29 of the same year.

     The bZ4X was then released in Japan on May 22, 2022 as a KINTO-exclusive model, but a recall was reported on June 23 due to a problem with a hub bolt, and on October 6, an investigation into the cause and a decision to take countermeasures were made, leading to the resumption of KINTO application acceptance.

     The initial leasing cost of bZ4X has been significantly reduced with the recent price revision.

     First, the application fee (including consumption tax, same below) has been halved from 770,000 yen to 385,000 yen.

     The monthly fee for the first four years of the 10-year contract period was originally 107,800 yen, but has been reduced to 106,700 yen (for FF specifications). The price has been reduced by 13,200 yen per year.

     The monthly fee will be reduced by an amount equivalent to the subsidy provided by the national and local governments on a monthly basis until the fourth year, making the monthly fee more affordable.

     Incidentally, while KINTO had previously limited bZ4X users to individuals, the company is now offering bZ4X to corporations in conjunction with the fee revision.

     It can be said that bZ4X has become more accessible through this service revision.

    * * * *

     The bZ4X is a new EV jointly developed by Toyota and Subaru, and is the first model to adopt Toyota’s “”e-TNGA”” EV-specific platform.

     The model will be introduced in the United States, Europe, China, and other countries around the world, with production taking place in Japan and China.

     Now here is a quiz.

     Which of the following is the correct production plant for the bZ4X in Japan?

    1] Motomachi Factory

    2] Tsutsumi Plant

    3] Toyota Motor Kyushu Miyata Plant

    4] Subaru Gunma Manufacturing Main Plant

    The correct answer is [1] Motomachi Plant.

     The correct answer is [1] Motomachi Plant.

     Motomachi Plant is located at 1 Motomachi, Toyota City, Aichi Prefecture.

     The Motomachi Plant is also responsible for the production of the “”Soltera,”” a Subaru version of the bZ4X, as well as the “”MIRAI,”” a fuel cell vehicle, and the “”GR Yaris,”” a full-scale 4WD hot hatch.

    *Source of quiz: Car Days”

  • | |

    Nissan Leaf being excluded from the tax breaks

    The Biden administration in the United States has limited tax incentives for electric vehicles (EVs) to only American-made cars, leading to the Nissan Leaf being excluded from the tax breaks. Some speculate that this move is motivated by protectionism, energy security, and anti-China policies. The law behind this decision, the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), aims to promote investment in carbon-neutral industries for energy security and climate change reasons. However, it remains unclear how this decision will affect Japan and its citizens.
    EV competition is intensifying internationally, with new BEVs being introduced in China and Europe. Japanese automakers are also joining the competition, with Honda and Toyota unveiling new BEV models for the Chinese market. In Europe, a policy package was recently passed that aims to make all new passenger and small commercial vehicles BEVs or fuel cell vehicles by 2035, although Germany has requested the use of e-fuels. In Japan, there is debate over the necessity of hybrid vehicles and the impact of the European BEV shift. The Nissan Leaf, which was first mass-produced in 2010, was a pioneer in the global BEV market.

  • | |

    Mesh grill is super sporty! Toyota’s SUV Yaris Cross GR Sport to debut in Europe!

    “Super Sporty Mesh Grille! Toyota’s Driving SUV “”Yaris Cross GR Sport”” to Debut in Europe!

    Sporty Advanced Grade “”GR Sport
     On August 30, 2022, Toyota’s European subsidiary announced the launch of a new “”GR Sport”” grade for its Yaris Cross compact SUV.

    See 18 photos of the cool sporty-looking Toyota “”Yaris Cross GR Sport””

     Launched in Europe in 2021, the Yaris Cross sold more than 77,000 units in the first half of 2022, securing 7.7% of the B-segment SUV market share, while at the same time accounting for 48% of the Yaris family share, making it Toyota’s top seller in Europe.

    Toyota’s Yaris Cross GR Sport (European specifications) with sporty design

     The exterior of the new Yaris Cross GR Sport features a piano black mesh pattern called “”hot stamping”” on the front grille and rear diffuser. Sporty touches include a “”GR”” badge and 18-inch 10-spoke aluminum wheels with a bright machine finish.

     Inside, the gray front sport seats feature red stitching and bright stitching on the steering wheel and shift lever, while the doors and instrument panel are fitted with gunmetal silver trim inserts exclusive to the GR Sport.

     The GR logo is also prominently placed on the front headrests, starter button, combi-meter, and steering wheel, giving the interior a special feel.

     The 40:20:40 split-folding rear seats and split-folding deck board are designed for convenience, with load space ranging from 397 liters (with all seats installed) to a maximum of 1097 liters.

     The powertrain is powered by a 1.5-liter “”Hybrid Dynamic Force”” engine. The “”GA-B”” platform provides a low center of gravity, highly rigid body, and a well-balanced chassis for easy handling, but the GR Sport features a retuned suspension for improved steering, roll, and grip feeling.

     The Yaris Cross GR Sport is positioned as a higher grade along with the Elegant and Adventure grades, and comes standard with dual-zone air conditioning, heated front seats, and rear privacy glass, as well as the advanced active safety and driver assistance features of the The “”Toyota T-Mate”” package, an advanced active safety and driving support function, is also included.

    * * *

     Pre-sales of the new Yaris Cross GR Sport in Europe are scheduled to begin in the third quarter of 2022.”

  • | |

    Toyota Unleashes the 2024 Yaris with 130 HP Boost and Cutting-Edge Safety Features.

    In a much-anticipated announcement, Toyota’s Spanish subsidiary has revealed the latest iteration of the beloved Yaris, set to hit the market in 2024. The new model is generating significant buzz, especially due to its enhanced hybrid technology and revamped design.

    A Brief History of the Yaris/Vitz

    The Yaris, originally known as the Vitz in Japan, made its debut in January 1999. Evolving through various generations, the Vitz was eventually discontinued in 2020. In the same year, the car underwent a complete transformation and was rebranded as the “Yaris” for a global audience. Now in its fourth generation, the Yaris has become a staple in different markets, with varying specifications to cater to regional preferences.

    Global Appeal and Local Preferences

    Despite sharing a common name globally, the Yaris exhibits subtle differences depending on the market. The overseas model, not available in Japan, has been gaining popularity among Japanese users who praise its wider build and easy drivability. The 2024 Yaris model unveiled in Spain continues to cater to these preferences, offering a larger size than its Japanese counterpart.

    Upgraded Performance with the 5th Generation Hybrid System

    The highlight of the 2024 Yaris is undoubtedly its advanced 5th generation hybrid system, featured in the Premier Edition and the sporty GR SPORT grade. Boasting a larger and higher-performance electric motor/generator, along with a new transaxle and revised power control unit (PCU) software and hardware, the total system output has been significantly boosted from 116 to 130 horsepower. Torque has also seen an increase, jumping from 141 Nm to an impressive 185 Nm.

    These enhancements translate into improved acceleration performance, with the 2024 Yaris now capable of reaching 0 to 100 km/h in just 9.2 seconds and accelerating from 80 to 120 km/h in 7.5 seconds. The result is a more powerful and dynamic driving experience for enthusiasts.

    Advanced Safety Features and Connectivity

    Toyota has not only focused on performance but also prioritized safety in the 2024 Yaris. The latest generation of Toyota Safety Sense is now standard across all models, offering over-the-air software updates for seamless feature upgrades. New cameras and radar significantly expand the accident risk detection range, recognizing a wider array of objects, including pedestrians, bicycles, and motorcycles.

    Additional safety features include an “”acceleration suppression function”” to prevent sudden acceleration when a collision risk is detected, proactive driving assist (PDA), and an emergency drive stop system (EDSS).

    Connectivity is another strong suit of the 2024 Yaris, featuring the Toyota Smart Connect system across all grades. The entry-level S edition comes equipped with a 9-inch multimedia screen, while digital keys that transform your smartphone into a car key are now standard, enhancing overall convenience.

    Pricing and Availability

    The 2024 Yaris model is set to hit the streets in Spain with a starting price of 22,300 euros (approximately 3.6 million yen). The GR Sport, equipped with the new engine, starts at 28,050 euros (about 4.53 million yen), and the Premier Edition begins at 20,000 euros (about 4.53 million yen). With a variety of options to choose from, the 2024 Yaris is poised to captivate both speed enthusiasts and safety-conscious drivers alike. Starting at 9,750 euros (approximately 4.8 million yen), there’s a Yaris model to suit every driver’s preference and budget.”

Leave a Reply