The foundation of the TS030 Le Mans Hybrid is a carbon-fiber body intended for competitive racing. Toyota worked with Nisshinbo to incorporate sufficient power storage with a V8 gas engine and electric motors. The THS-R drive uses a front-axle motor by Aisin AW and rear-axle motor by Denso calibrated within the limitations set by event organizers. The TS030’s batteries collect energy from the brakes for limited periods of all-electric operation. Engineers at Toyota Motorsports worked with event organizers to stay within hybrid vehicle rules including a 50kJ upper limit collected from the brakes.

Toyota’s racing team first ran the TS030 Le Mans Hybrid on January 11-13 at Circuit Paul Ricard in Le Castellet, France. Team drivers Hiroaki Ishiura, Nicolas Lapierre and Alex Wurz tested the TS030 on the track in various conditions including nighttime driving. Toyota Motorsports noted that the TS030 Le Mans Hybrid withstood high speeds over hundreds of miles during the three-day test. This initial round of testing allows Toyota to generate buzz while determining performance levels in realistic conditions. The early word is that the TS030 could hold up against predecessor models like the TS010 and the TS020.

The history of Toyota’s participation at the FIA World Endurance Championship could be defined more by the TS030 than previous victories and front-row positions. Toyota Motorsports has finished nine times in the top six with three runner-up finishes. The TS030 Le Mans Hybrid might vault past the 36 preceding models that have brought Toyota to the forefront of this annual race. Toyota hopes that the hybrid approach used in passenger vehicles translates to the race track. The Toyota Motorsports team stands in position to revolutionize auto racing if the TS030 performs well against traditional models.

UKH2Mobility starts with three goals that should help the United Kingdom jump into the fuel-cell vehicle industry. Partners in UKH2Mobility will study the alternative energy sources proposed by British communities including hydrogen fuel cells. This research will focus on building the case for fuel cells based on emissions reduction, available technology and costs to the consumer. Another goal for UKH2Mobility is analyzing the costs of developing refueling stations and training service stations to handle fuel-cell drive systems. The initiative will also develop marketing efforts to highlight the potential enhancements for the British economy through job growth, manufacturing and natural resources extraction.

Industrial partners in UKH2Mobility represent global leaders in the automotive and energy industries. UKH2Mobility features contributions from Vauxhall Motors, Toyota, Tata Motors, Nissan, Hyundai and Daimler. This initiative also leverages expertise from The BOC Group, Scottish and Southern Energy, Intelligent Energy Limited and Air Liquide Hydrogen Energy. Officials from the Department for Energy and Climate Change, the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills and the Department for Transport are coordinating these efforts. This public-private partnership should reduce barriers to mobilize fuel-cell technology over the next decade.

The British government has already gained expertise in the fuel-cell industry through the European Fuel Cells & Hydrogen Joint Undertaking. This partnership started on October 14, 2008 with the primary goal of facilitating commercial releases for fuel-cell vehicles by 2020. The Joint Undertaking also represents a connection to the European Union as the partnership was the first under the European Strategic Energy Technology Plan. UKH2 Mobility expands on the foundations of the Joint Undertaking while incorporating more businesses that have experience with hydrogen fuel cells. The United Kingdom represents an ideal proving ground for hydrogen vehicles given varied weather, traffic patterns and community sizes.

The Plug-in Car Grant currently offers discounts on 10 vehicle models including the Nissan LEAF, Tata Vista and Citroen CZero. The Department for Transport notes that 1,052 qualifying vehicles were purchased in the United Kingdom though only 892 grant applications had been approved. This disparity comes from the delay between a manufacturer’s application for reimbursement and government approval.  The first round of qualifying vans should be approved by the end of January after a month-long application process. The addition of vans to the Plug-in Car Grant should help families, small businesses and government agencies save significantly on their green vehicle investments.

Manufacturers of plug-in vans must meet rigorous criteria for their models to qualify for the Plug-in Car Grant. Current standards require qualifying vehicles to travel up to 70 miles per charge with a top speed of 60 miles per hour. The Department for Transport requires manufacturers to provide at least a 60,000-mile warranty as well as a five-year battery warranty to protect consumers. Qualifying vans must also meet British and international vehicle safety standards including whole-vehicle crash tests. These criteria not only save consumers from lemons but protect the government’s substantial investment in this market.

The British government has invested $614 million in advancing low-emissions vehicles throughout the country. This investment includes $460 million for incentives like the Plug-in Car Grant, $123 million on advanced vehicle research and development and $46 million for EV charger installation. The Department for Transport notes that the United Kingdom features more than 2,500 plug-in stations including 765 funded during the recent Plugged-in Places project. These stations should be joined by 4,000 charging stations purchased by businesses through the end of this year. The Plug-in Car Grant is a worthwhile program that could become unique as European, American and Asian governments begin to cut back on national budgets.

The Aqua Hybrid borrows a few tricks from the Prius while adding some new touches. Toyota kept features like Vehicle Stability Control and Electronic Brake-force Distribution that distinguish the Prius from other hybrids. The Exhaust-Gas Recirculation (EGR) feature in the Aqua Hybrid boosts fuel efficient by collecting exhaust energy for reuse. Drivers can travel a few miles on all-electric power by simply pressing the EV Mode button on the dashboard vehicle display. The Hybrid System Indicator by Toyota includes the Eco Judge, a program that ranks a driver’s habits from 0 to 100.

Fuel economy and power estimates demonstrate the Aqua Hybrid’s ability to keep up with the pack. The Japanese Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism certified a fuel economy rating of 83.3 miles per gallon. Toyota estimates that the Aqua Hybrid can hit 60 miles per hour from a dead stop in 10.7 seconds. This estimate includes a 25 MPH to 40 MPH time of 3.6 seconds, indicating enough power to reach speed limits in urban areas. Families and small businesses can access eco-friendly transportation without sacrificing cargo room thanks to the Aqua’s 10.8 cubic feet of cargo space.

Toyota and other Japanese automakers have faced long odds in staying competitive in the global auto industry. The reduction of production capacity during last year’s earthquake along with sluggish parts imports caused Toyota to fall behind schedule. A strong yen has forced Japanese automakers to consider measures that would make their cars more affordable to foreign consumers. The Toyota Prius has also been diminished in the past year due to the recall of earlier versions for steering and brake problems. The Aqua Hybrid hopefully acts as a dividing line between the Japanese auto industry’s recent struggles and a bright future for innovative vehicle design.

Toyota has noted that retail prices range from $41,000 for the basic S class to $53,800 for the premium G class with leather seats. The Prius PHV drive system features a 4.4kWh lithium-ion battery, a 1.8-liter gas engine and a charging unit capable of recharging the battery in 90 minutes. Drivers can alternate between driving modes ranging from the powerful Drive mode to the fuel-efficient Eco mode. Toyota estimates that the Prius PHV could achieve fuel economy ratings of 143 miles per gallon based on Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism standards. This rating is achieved in part due to all-electric capabilities up to 62 miles per hour for 16 miles per charge.

Every Prius PHV owner receives a suite of onboard services free for three years after the purchase date. The Owner’s Navigator allows a driver to learn how to drive more effectively using a smartphone application. The eConnect service provides updates on battery charge, EV charger locations and climate control operations by phone or laptop. The Toyota Friend program connects Prius PHV owners across Japan for discussions about vehicle issues and tips. Toyota also offers free access to charging stations and battery diagnostic tools at dealerships throughout Japan.

This limited rollout allows Toyota to test new production methods and customer service mechanisms that portend the future of the auto industry. Toyota notes that the amount of carbon emissions during production, operation and disposal will be 43% lower with the Prius PHV than comparable sedans. The automaker is developing the H2V Manager for vehicle owners who are concerned about balancing at-home charging with household electrical consumption. The Prius name is familiar around the world but Toyota is adding new twists in the Prius PHV that refresh the brand’s commitment to hybrid technology.

This organization emerged from the work of the CHAdeMO Association dating back to July 2010. Members of CHAdeMO were asked to determine how EV infrastructure investment could be spurred in the midst of difficult economic circumstances. A report published earlier this spring indicated that EV infrastructure had limped along due to equipment costs and lack of coordination. CHAdeMO found that Japan only features about 800 EV quick chargers as of October 2011, a lackluster effort given the nation’s role as a technological frontier. The seeds were planted for the Charging Network Development Organization following this grim assessment.

Businesses, government agencies and individuals in Japan interested in quick chargers will be able to acquire memberships into the organization. The nine founding members will use annual membership fees to fund educational efforts that encourage public awareness of EV chargers. These funds will also be used to develop network maps and wireless communications that allow members to find the nearest chargers. Membership fees from drivers will help reduce the upfront costs of installing and maintaining quick-charge units. The Charging Network Development Organization wants to streamline the installation, maintenance and utility billing processes alongside its membership services.

The Charging Network Development Organization is driven largely by investments from Japan’s major automakers. Toyota, Honda and Mitsubishi currently hold 54.6% of equity interest in the organization. The Chubu Electric Power Co. possesses an 18.2% stake comparable to the automakers in recognition of the importance of utilities in EV infrastructure development. The Development Bank of Japan holds a 9.1% equity interest while the remaining four partners possess a 4.5% interest per company. This substantial investment in Japan’s quick-charge infrastructure is required to kick the nation’s focus on advanced transportation technology into high gear. A substantial and easy-to-use EV charging network in Japan could act as an example for automakers, utilities and governments around the world.

The Vii in Fun-Vii stands for Vehicle, Interactive and Internet. This unique concept has a smooth black exterior that doubles as a display surface. Dealerships can use the Fun-Vii not only as a floor model but a digital display for vehicle information. Municipalities could incorporate this vehicle into their fleets to provide emergency information while companies could display ads during their daily routes. A driver can access a navigation concierge from the cockpit, which provides driving tips and turn-by-turn routes. The vehicle’s wireless communications system handles updates for driving software, communicates with other vehicles about traffic patterns and networks with emergency services.

Toyota’s collaboration with Yamaha yielded the PAS WITH and EC-miu concepts presented at Tokyo. The PAS WITH is an electric bike ideal for urban commuters who are weaving through heavy traffic. The EC-miu is an electric scooter suitable for younger drivers who want to avoid parking tickets and gas prices. These concepts represent three goals established by Toyota and Yamaha in their most recent collaboration. Both automakers want to collaborate on information technology, reduce costs of development and encourage vehicle sharing among their customers.  The PAS WITH and EC-miu are equipped with wireless technology that could allow information sharing about utility costs, maintenance and rental reservations.

The potential benefits of vehicle interconnectivity cannot be realized without cooperation among automakers, municipalities and technology developers. Toyota and Yamaha are testing vehicle communications systems in Japan over the next five years. These tests will focus not only on vehicle technology but connectivity with chargers like the Toyota G-Station. The connectivity issue must be resolved if consumers, cities and automakers want to develop greener transportation. Toyota and Yamaha should be joined by fellow Japanese automakers during initial testing to develop EV infrastructure in major urban areas like Tokyo. This collaboration would start the line of dominoes toward global cooperation on EV connectivity and infrastructure.

Details regarding the Toyota FCV-R point to a green vehicle with performance and design features that appeal to the average consumer. Toyota announced an estimated range of 435 miles thanks to advancements in fuel-cell capacity. The 70 megapascal (MPa) tank installed in the FCV-R not only improves total range from previous prototypes but also reduces tank size and weight. This four-seat sedan features a large trunk that allows drivers to take long road trips and handle multiple errands.

The Toyota Aqua Hybrid provides an alternative to the Prius for budget-conscious consumers. The Aqua Hybrid achieves high fuel economy thanks to an efficient 1.5-liter gas engine, a low profile and a body that measures less than 10 feet long. Toyota estimates that this prototype can achieve fuel mileage of 94 miles per gallon based on lab testing. The diminutive frame does not deprive drivers of sufficient cargo space, leg room and head room needed during daily commutes. The Aqua Hybrid is slated for release throughout Japan by the end of December with a 2012 global release to be announced soon.

Prototypes like the FT-EV II show that Toyota has a clear vision for the next generation of green transportation. The FT-EV II uses a lithium-ion battery pack and compact body to achieve a total range of 65 miles per charge. This concept represents Toyota’s foray into city cars that could be introduced in Japan by the end of 2012. Toyota also touts the Fun-Vii as a prototype EV that uses wireless communications and customizable features to create unique driving experiences without fossil fuels. The automaker also plans a demonstration of the Prius Plug-in hybrid during the show, which is the inaugural presentation of the model in Japan.

The European Federation for Transport and Environment (T&E) has published reports the past six years detailing emissions reductions in the European auto industry. The latest report entitled 2011 Cars & CO2 Report: How Clean Are Europe’s Cars? concludes that automakers in Europe have trimmed carbon emissions by 3.7% compared to 2009 models. The winner in terms of emissions reductions was Volvo Cars with a fleet reduction of 9% from 2009 to 2010. T&E focuses on tailpipe emissions and carbon footprint measured in real-world situations without factoring weight into their analysis.

2011 Cars & CO2 Report analyzed leading automakers by percentage reduction, average emissions and proximity to EU emissions targets. Volvo’s 9% reduction topped the chart with a handful of automakers falling in a range from 2% to 6%. T&E found that Mazda and Honda actually saw increases in their fleet emissions from the 2009 model year. The average vehicle emissions list was led by Fiat (126g/km), Toyota (129g/km) and Peugeot (131g/km). EU emissions standards require average emissions of 130 g/km for each company’s fleet by 2015 with slight variations based on vehicle weight. The report found that Toyota had nearly achieved the 2015 emissions goal last year while Volvo was among the furthest from their goal with an 8% gap to fill.

The success of Volvo Cars in the past year emerged from a focus on clean diesel technology popular among European consumers. The automaker’s V50 DRIVe achieved an emissions level of 99g/km and the V70 DRIVe 119g/km through efficient drive systems. Volvo is currently working on more substantial hybrids and all-electric vehicles though the DRIVe line is Volvo’s strategy for the foreseeable future. The T&E report is likely celebrated within Volvo’s research and management teams though the results show that Volvo had a long way to go before 2010.

T&E’s research seems positive on the whole though the details are disconcerting for automakers that must meet EU guidelines by 2015. Toyota, Peugeot and Fiat represent the only automakers in Europe of the top 15 companies within 5% of the 2015 EU emissions standard. Automakers have pushed hybrid, diesel and alt-fuel vehicles to the fore in the past two years. The questions that remain are whether automakers can introduce more efficient vehicles by 2015 and how emissions can be cut quickly in poor economic circumstances. European corporations and governments may need to invest heavily in eco-friendly vehicles over the next four years to push automakers to expedite green vehicle technology.

The Camry sedan has been a major seller for Toyota in the United States since 1997. Toyota’s signature sedan has been the top-selling car in the United States since 2002 and only yielded that spot once in 14 years. The Japanese automaker announced plans for the seventh generation of the Camry, which will be released during the 2013 model year. Toyota will produce a 2.5-liter Camry for budget-conscious consumers and a version with a 3.5-liter V6 engine for drivers in need of greater power. These conventional models will be joined by the Camry Hybrid LE with an estimated fuel economy of 41 miles per gallon (MPG).

Toyota tweaked the Camry drive system to squeeze better fuel economy and engine power out of the hybrid model.  The previous Camry Hybrid achieved a combined EPA rating of 33 MPG with a city rating of 31 MPG. The 2012 Camry Hybrid LE has a combined EPA rating of 41 MPG and a city rating of 43 MPG. An improvement of 24% in overall fuel economy was possible with the use of lighter body panels and efficiencies found in the 149kW drive system. These improvements also added power to the Camry Hybrid LE with a 7% increase in engine power.

The nickel metal hydride (NiMH) battery used in the Camry Hybrid LE has been improved for greater range and capacity. Toyota notes that the pack’s 34 modules located behind the rear seats have been downsized to create an extra three cubic feet of trunk storage. The Camry Hybrid LE features enhanced air cooling within the battery pack to maintain proper operating temperatures. Drivers are able to squeeze more out of the battery with Eco and EV Drive modes accessible from the cockpit. The Eco mode adjusts the transmission, engine and auxiliary systems to increase range. The EV Drive allows for all-electric operation for up to 1.6 miles at speeds less than 25 miles per hour.

The Toyota Camry Hybrid LE features a redesigned interior as well as the Entune multimedia system. Designers at Toyota moved the foot pedals forward, used ergonomics to adjust the driver’s seat and repositioned other seats for greater leg room. The Camry Hybrid LE also incorporates insulation at strategic locations throughout the vehicle to muffle road sounds and engine noises. The Entune multimedia system by Toyota supports mobile music, mapping and weather applications through the driver’s smart phone. This mixture of performance, comfort and connectivity shows Toyota’s commitment to keeping the Camry line at the top of the industry.