Friday, June 29, 2012
Thursday, June 28, 2012
Wednesday, June 27, 2012
Get a Free, Instant Offer on Your Car's Trade-In Value That's Guaranteed by AutoTrader.com!
Tuesday, June 26, 2012
As Driverless Cars Inch Closer to Reality, Researchers Mull Impact
- Studies are under way to explore new "smart" automotive technologies and their effects on drivers.
- The concerns are that drivers may lose focus and become overly dependent on advanced systems.
- The Transportation Research Board has scheduled a workshop next month on the future of automated cars and driving.
IRVINE, California — As automobile development moves closer and closer to automated or semi-automated vehicles, manufacturers and the Transportation Research Board are exploring the ramifications of these "intelligent" cars and the effects on the public.
A TRB workshop on the future of automated cars and driving is scheduled for July 24-26 at the Beckman Center in Irvine. The full title of the event is "Future of Road Vehicle Automation and PreConference Workshop on Early Automation Deployment Opportunities in Managed Lane Operations."
Meanwhile, there is general acknowledgement in the industry that, while new technologies may enhance safety and take over some of the tasks drivers now have to perform manually, there will be problems inherent in the use of this new technology.
Innovations already available on some cars, such Ford's automated parallel-parking function, are not so much at issue as are systems that monitor traffic situations and either provide warning prompts or make decisions about the operation of the vehicle. In addition to the fail-safe nature of such systems, there is the human element to consider.
Internet giant Google is vigorously pursuing the concept of fully automated vehicles, winning a U.S. patent late last year for "Transitioning a mixed-mode vehicle to autonomous mode." Prompted in part by a Google lobbying effort, Nevada passed legislation in July 2011 regulating "driverless" cars.
Advanced vehicle automation is anticipated to make its way to the marketplace within the decade, but an equivalent of aviation's autopilot, to all but completely take over the duties of operating the vehicle, is not in the foreseeable future.
That doesn't mean that drivers won't expect more of the technology than it is capable of delivering.
General Motors is conducting studies on how driver behavior will be influenced by emerging technologies. The upshot of their research is summed up by GM Research Program manager Jeremy Salinger, who said, "The focus was on how people might change their behaviors from what they normally do when they drive cars."
GM researchers have observed how when drivers multitask, they make relatively frequent but brief glances away from their primary function of driving. The dangers of such distraction will not be erased by the driver aids coming in the next 10 years, Salinger said.
Referring to the operation of a "smart" vehicle, he said, "This is not a time that you can start reading a book."
Inside Line says: The good news is that early research shows that the driver's attention is more sharply focused when technology such as Forward Collision Alert is operative. The bad news is that such heightened attention may not be sustained as drivers become accustomed to technological aids and allow themselves to become more dependent upon them."
Friday, June 22, 2012
A Happy New Pontiac Bonneville Driver Left a Positive Review on Yelp
Thursday, June 21, 2012
This Reviewer Was Back On the Road In a New Toyota Prius In Less Than Two Hours
Wednesday, June 20, 2012
Toyota Sunnyvale - Dedicated to the Community
Toyota to become more aggressive with its use of hydrogen fuel in the future
By Erin Kilgore – June 19, 2012
Toyota re-enters the motor sports scene with hybrid racers
"Famed Japanese automaker Toyota has long held an interest in hydrogen fuel. The Pruis hybrid managed to attract praise for its use of hydrogen fuel. That had been the extent of the company’s support of fuel cells for several years. Recently, however, Toyota re-entered the motor sports arena with the introduction of two hybrid racecars that each feature a hydrogen fuel cell. The vehicles made their debut at this week’s 24 Hours of Le Mans event in France. During the event, Toyota’s vice-chairman, Takeshi Uchiyamada, announced that the company will become more aggressive with its use of hydrogen fuel cells in the future.
FCV-R vehicle slated for 2015 release
According to Uchiyamada, Toyota plans to release a new hydrogen-powered vehicle in 2015. The vehicle is tentatively called the Toyota FCV-R. The automaker has been keen to show off the concept of this new vehicle at various auto shows around the world. The vehicle is powered by a single hydrogen fuel cell that has been designed by Toyota. The FCV-R is expected to see limited release next year, but may expand into more markets based upon its success.
Toyota continues work to combine hydrogen fuel cells with batteries
Hydrogen fuel cells have become one of Toyota’s most promising tools in its pursuit to incorporate more alternative energy into its business. The company has a keen interest in combining hydrogen fuel cells with lithium-ion batteries. It believes that hybrid electric vehicles present an economic solution for a new generation of drivers who are growing more concerned for their environment and their own finances.
Mass production of hydrogen-powered vehicles to begin this decade
The company has also announced that it will begin mass production of hydrogen powered vehicles within the decade. Toyota is not the only car manufacturer developing vehicles that make use of hydrogen fuel cells, but it is one of the few that has planned for mass production within a certain time frame."
A 5-Star Review From a Customer That Appreciates Our No Hidden Costs!
Another Satisfied Customer Left a Review On Cars.com
Tuesday, June 19, 2012
One More "Feel Good" 5-Star Review
A Recommendation from a Surprised New Prius Owner
A Happy New Toyota Owner's "Compelled" Review
http://bit.ly/MtHSnB
Monday, June 18, 2012
Two Positive Reviews on Yelp. Great, Professional, Work Everyone!
"Professional car buying process. I was expecting to be at the dealership all day; but, Toyota Sunnyvale seemed to have the process down pat and I was out of there in less than an hour with my new car."
"Really surprised to read the many negative reviews here as my experience was very different. I visited both the Used and New lots several times over the course of several weeks. I ultimately decided on a new 2012 Prius, but found my experiences at both lots very positive. Obviously the salesmen on both lots were interested in making the sale, but I did not find either one overly aggressive, or using high-pressure sales tactics. They were great about allowing me to take as many test drives as I wanted. I tried to negotiate to lower the price in both camps and there was unfortunately no discount (everyone wants a Prius). However the reason I went to them in the first place is their advertised offers were extremely competitive, and there was absolutely no "bait and switch".
The sales associate on the new lot, J. Brown Fitterman, presented the options, but was not overly aggressive in his presentation. He accepted my "no thank you", and moved on. He presented the 10-point guarantee which I really appreciated. Same in finance dept. when I passed on extended warranty etc., "No thank you" was no problem. None of this, "You'll be sorry". They even advised me on how to handle transfer of ownership as I elected to sell my car privately rather than to the dealer.J. set up my blue tooth device on exit. Spent time making sure I could get all my music channels. Drove me through service dept. on the way out and it was immaculate. OK -- so this is an obvious sales tactic, but who can blame them? J. even called me a day later to make sure I didn't have any follow-up questions, and that I understood everything. He encouraged me to stop by the dealership anytime I had a question. I appreciated it. A new Prius is so techie, with the features/display it's overwhelming.Every time I stopped in I was greeted very cheerfully by people at the dealership who were happy to answer questions so I was surprised to read about the apathy other buyers experienced. Most importantly my new Prius is fantastic! Drives like a dream and it's fun to see your mileage on trip details. And the interface with my iPod is fantastic. Sure makes driving a pleasure. I encourage other buyers to do their homework certainly, but when you're ready, go to Toyota Sunnyvale. You will be treated fairly and courteously. The car buying experience, which is so often unpleasant was a pure pleasure in my case."
Friday, June 15, 2012
Thursday, June 14, 2012
Tuesday, June 12, 2012
First 25 Winners Announced for Toyota 100 Cars for Good Program
[[posterous-content:pid___0]]
"First 25 nonprofit organizations have been selected by the public to receive a new Toyota vehicle
Five non-profit organizations will continue to be profiled on the 100 Cars for Good Facebook page (www.100carsforgood.com) each day through August 21
TORRANCE, CALIF. (June 11, 2012) – Toyota today announced the first 25 winners of the Toyota 100 Cars for Good program, a national philanthropic program that is awarding 100 cars to 100 nonprofits over the course of 100 consecutive days. Winners are selected each day through public voting on Facebook at www.100carsforgood.com.
Each day through August 21, five nonprofit organizations will be profiled on the 100 Cars for Good Facebook page. Registered Facebook users are able to vote once daily for the nonprofit they think can do the most good with a new vehicle. The organization with the most votes at the end of the day wins a new Toyota vehicle. The four runners-up each receive a $1,000 cash grant from Toyota.
“We are delighted to announce the first 25 winners of the Toyota 100 Cars for Good program,” said Jim Lentz, president and chief executive officer of Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc. “Toyota created the 100 Cars for Good program because we appreciate what a big difference a new car or truck can make for organizations working to improve lives and strengthen communities across America. It’s been very gratifying to put the public in the ‘driver’s seat’ to select the winning organizations. 100 Cars for Good has also allowed Toyota to build on more than half a billion dollars of support the company has provided to nonprofits throughout the United States. We wish all of this year’s finalists the best of luck.”
The first 25 100 Cars for Good winners represent a cross-section of important local causes, including providing nutritious meals to kids, helping communities struck by natural disaster and alleviating the suffering of abandoned, abused or injured animals.
The first 25 winners in Toyota’s 100 Cars for Good program are:
| DC Scores | Washington, DC | May 14, 2012 |
| Cincinnati Zoo | Cincinnati, Ohio | May 15, 2012 |
| Lehmi County Humane Society | Salmon, Idaho | May 16, 2012 |
| Pibbles & More Animal Rescue | Ridgewood, New York | May 17, 2012 |
| Recycled Doggies, Inc. | Cincinnati, Ohio | May 18, 2012 |
| Hope for Paws Animal Rescue | Los Angeles, California | May 19, 2012 |
| The Dream Center | Los Angeles, California | May 20, 2012 |
| SPCA International's Operation Baghdad Pups | New York, New York | May 21, 2012 |
| Petfinder Foundation | Tucson, Arizona | May 22, 2012 |
| Together We Rise | Chino, California | May 23, 2012 |
| The Children’s Lunchbox | Anchorage, Alaska | May 24, 2012 |
| All Hands Volunteers | Carlisle, Massachusetts | May 25, 2012 |
| Detroit Dog Rescue | Grosse Pointe Woods, Michigan | May 26, 2012 |
| Fences for Fido | Portland, Oregon | May 27, 2012 |
| Central Vermont Humane Society | East Montpelier, Vermont | May 28, 2012 |
| Operation Blankets of Love | Granada Hills, California | May 29, 2012 |
| Kristie’s Foundation | Anaheim, California | May 30, 2012 |
| K9 Services German Shepherd Rescue, Inc. | Middleburg, Florida | May 31, 2012 |
| Animal Aid, Inc. | Oakland Park, Florida | June 1, 2012 |
| Clark County Community Services | Winchester, Kentucky | June 2, 2012 |
| Shore Hearts Golden Retriever | Lanoka Harbor, New Jersey | June 3, 2012 |
| Special Olympics Illinois | Normal, Illinois | June 4, 2012 |
| Last Chance Ranch | Quakertown, Pennsylvania | June 5, 2012 |
| Rikki’s Refuge | Rapidan, Virginia | June 6, 2012 |
| Feed My Sheep | Gulfport, Mississippi | June 7, 2012 |
Winning organizations can choose from the following vehicles: Camry Hybrid, Highlander SUV, Prius v Hybrid, Sienna minivan, Sienna Mobility or Tundra full-sized pickup. A six-year, 100,000-mile powertrain warranty will also be provided for each vehicle, compliments of Toyota Financial Services.
The 500 finalists, from which the 100 winners are ultimately selected, were certified by an independent panel of judges who are experts in the fields of philanthropy and corporate social responsibility.
Follow 100 Cars for Good on Facebook at www.100carsforgood.com and on Twitter at #100cars.
Media Contacts:
Luis Rosero, Toyota
212-715-7493
Tracy Segal
GolinHarris for Toyota
626-665-9141
tsegal@golinharris.com"
Friday, June 8, 2012
Two More Positive Reviews! We Appreciate Your Business!
"We had a fantastic experience with Sunnyvale Toyota when we bought our 2003 Camry.
Our salesman, Ron, could not have been better. He was everything we wanted and more. He was sympathetic when we told him that our daughter had been in a car accident and that our family was shaken up and needed a car that made us all feel safe. He understood our needs and never tried to talk us into going over our budget. He was calm, friendly, not at all pushy, he was patient when we left the showroom without having made a decision, and he was available to us when we called him and when we came back. After we bought the car we took it to our own mechanic and when he discovered a few issues that needed to be addressed, Sunnyvale Toyota agreed to pay half. The service department was attentive and prompt. Thank you, RON - we will be back when we are ready to buy our next car! Jim and Leigh M."Thursday, June 7, 2012
Wednesday, June 6, 2012
Tuesday, June 5, 2012
Toyota Sales Increase Nearly 90 Percent in May 2012
"Daily selling rate reaches highest levels since August 2008
TORRANCE, Calif. (June 1, 2012) – Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc., today reported sales of 202,973 units, an increase of 72.9 percent compared to May 2011 on a daily selling rate (DSR) basis. Unadjusted for 26 selling days in May 2012 versus 24 selling days in May 2011, TMS sales were up 87.3 percent over the year-ago month on a raw volume basis.
The Toyota Division posted May total sales of 181,510 units, an increase of 74.4 percent over May 2011 on a DSR basis. Volume-wise, Toyota Division sales were up 88.9 percent over the year-ago month.
"We're grateful to our customers who have made Toyota the number one retail brand in America for the third consecutive month," said Bob Carter, Toyota Division group vice president and general manager, Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A. "Our growth has been driven by the success of our new products, led by Camry and Prius family, part of the most aggressive product launch in our history. With the much anticipated Scion FR-S on sale today and the continued recovery of the overall automotive market, we're confident our sales momentum will continue."
The Lexus Division reported total sales of 21,463 units, up 61.0 percent over May 2011 on a DSR basis. Volume-wise, Lexus Division sales were up 74.4 compared to last year.
“With exciting new Lexus products reaching dealerships on a daily basis, inventories are at optimal levels, and we look forward to continued sales growth throughout the rest of the year,” said Tim Morrison, Lexus Division vice president of sales and dealer development.
Toyota Division
Toyota Division passenger cars posted combined sales of 104,422 units, up 88.1 percent over May 2011. The all-new Camry and Camry Hybrid led passenger cars with combined monthly sales of 39,571 units, an increase of 94.0 percent year-over-year. Corolla reported sales of 31,847 units, up 73.1 percent over the year-ago month. The Prius family recorded May sales of 21,477 units, increasing 186.3 percent compared to the same period last year.
Toyota Division light trucks recorded May sales of 77,088 units, an increase of 58.7 percent compared to May 2011. The RAV4 compact SUV led light trucks, posting monthly sales of 19,248
units, up 106.0 percent over last year. The Sienna minivan followed with sales of 14,606 units and
an increase of 56.4 percent year-over-year. Increasing 87.0 percent over last May, the Highlander
and Highlander Hybrid midsize crossover reported combined sales of 11,657 units. The 4Runner midsize SUV also posted a year-over-year increase with sales of 4,421 units, up 26.3 percent. The Tacoma mid-size pickup recorded sales of 12,269 units, up 24.6 percent over May 2011, followed by the Tundra full-size pickup, which increased 87.9 percent year-over-year with sales of 8,765 units.
Scion posted May sales of 6,047 units, up 18.9 percent versus May 2011. The tC sports coupe led the way with sales of 2,190 units, and the xB urban utility vehicle recorded May sales of 1,855 units, up 45.4 percent compared to the same period last year. The xD five-door urban subcompact posted a year-over-year increase of 10.1 percent with sales of 1,019 units, and the all-new iQ premium micro-subcompact posted monthly sales of 897 units.
Lexus Division
Lexus reported passenger car sales of 9,621 units, up 56.3 percent over May 2011. The ES entry luxury sedan led Lexus passenger car sales with sales of 2,937 units, an increase of 13.0 percent over the year-ago month. The IS luxury sports sedan recorded an increase of 43.0 percent versus last May with sales of 2,656 units. The all-new GS and GS Hybrid sports sedan posted combined sales of 1,996 units, up 502.1 percent over May 2011. The CT 200h premium hybrid compact posted sales of 1,549 units, increasing 214.9 percent year-over-year.
Lexus luxury utility vehicles reported sales of 11,842 units, up 65.0 percent compared to May 2011. The new RX and RX Hybrid luxury utility vehicle posted a year-over-year increase of 68.1 percent with combined monthly sales of 10,647 units, while the new LX luxury utility vehicle recorded sales of 387 units, up 151.6 percent over last May.
TMS Hybrids
TMS posted May sales of 29,069 hybrid vehicles, an increase of 199.2 percent compared to the same period last year. Toyota Division posted sales of 26,440 hybrids for the month, up 218.4 percent over the year-ago month. Lexus Division reported monthly sales 2,629 hybrids, increasing 86.2 percent year-over-year."
An Educated Buyer Chose Toyota Sunnyvale! Read His Review and See Why!
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