These engines have been operating totally different ECU softwares when examined for home emissions certification in Japan
In a stunning revelation, it seems Toyota’s diesel engines of late don’t ship efficiency precisely as claimed. While this occasion does contain ECU manipulation, it doesn’t seem like anyplace close to as egregious because the notorious Volkswagen ‘dieselgate’ scandal which concerned falsifying emissions figures. Instead, the irregular information in query pertains to the facility supply of Toyota’s diesel engines.
How did the difficulty happen?
It was found that when sure diesel engines had their energy output efficiency figures measured throughout certification testing, they have been operating an ECU software program totally different from the one which was used on the mass-production models. According to the investigation report, this was carried out to make their horsepower values “appear smoother with less variation.” This implies that whereas the precise peak efficiency figures have been correct, the way in which the engines reached these figures would differ for the mass-produced models.
What fashions have been affected?
The three diesel engines in query have been all manufactured by Toyota Industries Corporation (TICO) and have been fitted with 10 fashions globally. These engines are fitted to the next Toyota fashions in India:
Given that every one the core Toyota merchandise (these not shared with Maruti Suzuki) are supplied with diesel engines, it appears numerous patrons can have vehicles with the affected engines.
Should these Toyota homeowners be involved?
In the identical announcement, Toyota assures that there isn’t a have to cease utilizing the fashions with the engines in query. The carmaker acknowledged that it has re-verified the mass-produced engines on the plant and confirmed that they do certainly meet their engine efficiency requirements. As such, their reliability and value just isn’t affected by this subject.
The subsequent steps
Following the invention from the investigation, TICO has quickly suspended cargo of the engines talked about above whereas Toyota will quickly halt the cargo of vehicles fitted with the identical.
Meanwhile, a spokesperson from Toyota Kirloskar Motor shared the next assertion on the matter:
“Toyota Industries Corporation (TICO), an organization affiliated with Toyota Motor Corporation (TMC), introduced on Jan 29, 2024, that irregularities in horsepower output certification exams have been discovered on three diesel engine fashions. In case of India, such engines are utilized in Innova Crysta, Fortuner and Hilux.
The irregularities concern the ‘smoothing’ of energy and torque curves however didn’t result in any over-stating or over-claims on horsepower, torque or different powertrain associated values. Moreover, this doesn’t have any impression on the emissions or security of the affected autos.
Toyota is working with related authorities to re-confirm the info used for the certification of the affected autos. As such, in case of Toyota Kirloskar Motor Pvt Ltd (TKM), additionally the dispatch of affected autos will likely be quickly suspended.
However, new order taking will proceed. For vehicles which have already been dispatched however haven’t but been delivered to the shopper, we’ll fastidiously clarify to our prospects about this situation. Thereafter, we’ll proceed with registration and supply for purchasers who decide to obtain their autos.
We wish to reassure our current prospects by stating that we imagine their autos are unaffected by these irregularities, as this didn’t end in any variations in horsepower, torque or different powertrain-related values. Additionally, this has not compromised the emissions or security of their autos.
Nevertheless, TKM sincerely apologises for any inconvenience and concern this irregularity might trigger to our prospects and different stakeholders.”
It seems Toyota remains to be trying to finalise an finish answer to the difficulty at hand. For now, new patrons must endure longer wait occasions for his or her new Toyota SUVs, whereas these with orders prepared for supply can select to simply accept their autos of their present type.
Future For Diesels
The pursuit of fresh air has been a crushing blow to the diesel engines in vehicles. While many have deserted the workhorse different altogether, some like Toyota are nonetheless working onerous to maintain them compliant and within the operating for so long as potential.
It’s often stricter emissions laws that result in the demise of a automotive within the European Union. However, that is not the rationale why the fuel Macan is about to get the proverbial axe. The SUV is unable to fulfill upcoming cybersecurity laws, so Porsche has no different determination however to drag the plug on its smallest crossover.
An organization spokesperson instructed Automotive News Europe that gross sales of the Macan will come to an finish in EU international locations subsequent spring. When Porsche was growing this era of the crossover, these laws had but to be finalized. According to the spokesperson, updating the car to fulfill the brand new necessities could be too costly. Autocar studies an automaker faces an as much as €30,000 (practically $33,000) wonderful for every car it sells that does not adjust to the upcoming UNECE WP.29 regulation.
We’ve reached out to Porsche to be taught extra concerning the determination.
With emissions rules getting stricter globally, there’s extra strain on automakers to roll out EVs. But what is going to occur to the gas-powered automobiles which were already constructed? A German startup based mostly in Dachau has an thought.
This firm needs to transform present gasoline and diesel automobiles to pure EVs. Of course, e-Revolt isn’t the primary to supply this resolution, but it surely has optimized the method to chop the conversion time to only eight hours.
More and extra vehicles are downsizing because of stringent emissions laws. The newest C63 is the newest instance, eschewing its brawny 4.0-liter V8 in favor of a small 2.0-liter four-cylinder. There had been some rumors about Affalterbach’s plan to re-install an even bigger engine, however that is not going to occur.
In an interview with Top Gear journal, AMG CEO Michael Schiebe says folks have been asking why the corporate dropped the V8. Schiebe explains: “We want to be very, very progressive when it comes to technology. And we are convinced of the hybridization concept, there we will stay with the four cylinder.”
Toyota is dedicated to achieving zero emissions without completely phasing out the internal combustion engine. While some car manufacturers like Porsche are focusing on the development and production of synthetic fuels, Toyota has a different strategy. It aims to adapt traditional internal combustion engines to run on hydrogen. The turbocharged 1.6-liter engine of the GR Yaris and GR Corolla has already been tested in motorsport events as part of this initiative.
Besides the hot hatches, the HiAce van has also undergone modifications to run on hydrogen instead of gasoline or diesel. The utilitarian van is part of a pilot program in Australia, where various local companies will test the vehicles in real-world conditions. The van is powered by a turbocharged V6 engine borrowed from the Land Cruiser (LC300), with output sent to the rear axle through a ten-speed automatic transmission.
In today’s world, where emissions regulations are becoming increasingly stringent, it has become more challenging for car manufacturers to introduce high-performance vehicles that solely rely on internal combustion engines. Even prestigious and low-volume brands like Ferrari have had to adapt by incorporating hybrid powertrains into their recent models. The 296 GTB and its convertible counterpart, the 296 GTS, are prime examples of this trend.
However, the Ferrari 296 Challenge is a race car designed without any hybrid assistance, featuring a pure V6 setup. Since this vehicle will be participating in the Ferrari Challenge Trofeo Pirelli, it is exempt from meeting strict emissions regulations. This model is the ninth specifically developed for this racing competition, succeeding the 488 Challenge Evo introduced in the 2020 season.
A relaxation of the impending Euro 7 emissions regulations could see the lifecycle of the petrol-powered Skoda Fabia supermini extended well into the second half of the decade.
Many car company executives have expressed concerns about the impact of Euro 7, which is set to be implemented in 2025. They argue that the new regulations will make it difficult for small, affordable combustion cars to comply with the strict emission limits. This would require expensive engineering modifications such as fitting electrically heated e-catalysts and new on-board diagnostic technology, which would significantly increase production costs and render them economically unfeasible.
Klaus Zellmer, the head of Skoda, stated earlier this year that it would not be possible to continue selling the Fabia, at least not at its current starting price of under £19,000, if Euro 7 goes ahead as planned. He explained that raising the list price to over £20,000 to compensate for the increased production costs would not be a practical option for customers.
However, the European Commission is now expected to revise the initial Euro 7 proposals following objections from countries like Spain, Italy, France, and the Czech Republic. These countries argued that the proposed regulations would impose significant costs on manufacturers without providing substantial environmental benefits. They also expressed concerns that the strict rules would divert investment away from the goal of transitioning to electric vehicles.
The new proposals, which still need to be approved by the European Parliament and Commission, would maintain the same limits imposed by the current Euro 6 standards for passenger cars. This would significantly reduce the cost of compliance for automakers.
Zellmer, speaking to Autocar at the launch of the new Skoda Kodiaq following the announcement of the less strict Euro 7 proposals, praised the potential change as a more realistic approach. He acknowledged that this could help extend the potential lifespan of the combustion-engine Fabia. However, he also emphasized that the new regulations still need to go through the legislative EU process before any celebration can take place.
Lawmakers in Europe are facing pressure to soften strict emissions rules known as Euro 7, following a compromise agreement among EU countries. The new proposals, presented by Spain, are seen as a more fair alternative to the European Commission’s initial plan to tighten emissions limits for non-CO2 pollutants. This includes nitrogen oxide from brakes and tires, as well as carbon monoxide. Diplomatic sources have indicated that EU countries have largely agreed on these compromise proposals. The pushback against Euro 7 comes from eight EU countries, who argue that car manufacturers are already struggling to meet the continent’s 2035 electric vehicle targets, and that Euro 7 would be too costly with minimal environmental benefits. Car manufacturers themselves, such as Renault and Stellantis, have also voiced concerns, with Renault’s chief stating that it would distract from the transition to electric vehicles, and the Stellantis boss arguing that it would increase prices of smaller vehicles, making them less affordable for lower-income drivers. Euro 7 is the final stage of EU regulations for combustion engine emissions before the sale of pure internal combustion engine vehicles is banned in 2030-2035. It aims to make combustion engines as clean as possible and will bring diesel and petrol engines under identical emissions limits for the first time. The regulation sets limits for various pollutants, including carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxides, hydrocarbons, and particles. However, concerns have been raised about the cost-effectiveness of Euro 7, particularly regarding the regulation’s emissions budget and the inclusion of brake dust testing.
Toyota’s Electrified Diversified campaign focuses on Toyota’s widest selection of low and zero emissions vehicles in the market
PLANO, Texas (Sept. 18, 2023) – Toyota is introducing the 2023 Beyond Zero “Electrified Diversified” campaign, encouraging drivers to shift towards electrified vehicles. Beyond Zero represents Toyota’s goal to go beyond carbon neutrality through its products, services, and operations to make a positive impact on the planet and society.
Toyota’s electrified vehicles play a crucial role in reducing carbon emissions and driving towards the Beyond Zero vision. Toyota provides a diverse range of Electrified powertrains, including Battery EV, Hybrid EV, Plug-In EV, and Fuel-Cell EV, ensuring that there is an option for every consumer.
“Toyota offers the highest number of low and zero emission vehicles compared to any other automaker. We provide battery electric, hybrid electric, plug-in hybrid electric, and fuel cell electric offerings,” said Mike Tripp, Vice President of Vehicle Marketing & Communications. “Beyond Zero is about giving our customers choices, and we’re excited to offer a wide range of vehicles with various electrified powertrains to suit their lifestyles and reduce their carbon footprint.”
The comprehensive “Electrified Diversified” campaign was developed by Saatchi & Saatchi. It emphasizes the confidence and excitement of driving Toyota’s lineup of electrified vehicles, including the Tundra Hybrid, Sienna, Prius, bZ4X, and Mirai, among others.
In a 30-second commercial titled “Electrified Diversified,” viewers are taken through various moments of life that showcase the possibilities of Toyota’s carbon-emission reducing vehicles. The commercial captures activities such as off-roading adventures, beach barbeques, children’s birthday parties, and fun nights out, highlighting the inclusivity and freedom of choice offered by Toyota’s electrified vehicles, which excel in style, power, and durability. The campaign emphasizes that there is an electrified vehicle for everyone.
Media Placements
The “Electrified Diversified” Beyond Zero campaign is being promoted across various platforms, including digital video, digital content, streaming audio, programmatic advertising, paid social media, and paid search. High-profile sports programming such as Thursday Night Football on Amazon will feature the campaign. Partnerships with iHeart Media, Wired, Forbes, Hearst, and others have been established, and paid social media ads are running on Meta and Reddit.
The commercial can be viewed here. Images and credits are available here.
About the Beyond Zero Vision
Toyota is committed to reducing carbon emissions by offering 16 electrified vehicles for customers to choose from. This includes 12 hybrid electric models, two plug-in hybrid electric models, the bZ4X battery electric vehicle, and the zero-emission hydrogen fuel cell electric Mirai (currently available in California).
In addition to the electrified vehicle lineup, Toyota’s efforts to achieve the Beyond Zero vision involve various conservation and other initiatives. For more information, please visit: https://www.toyota.com/electrified-vehicles/.
EVs and hybrids have zero or minimal emissions, making them a sustainable choice that helps protect the planet and improve air quality.
Electric and hybrid vehicles can save money in the long run, with lower fuel costs, fewer breakdowns, and less maintenance required compared to traditional ICE vehicles.
EVs and hybrids offer a quiet driving experience, reducing noise pollution and providing a comfortable ride, particularly for city-dwellers and during long drives.
The world around us is changing, and it is changing fast. We are now witnessing major developments across various industries and it is the automotive department that has arguably been the most. Gone are the days when we were worried about the capabilities of electric vehicles when compared to their gas-guzzling counterparts. From mileage to power and performance, it has been proven that EVs can match, at times even outdo, ICE vehicles.
Tesla has a huge role in changing the dynamics of the EV industry. Tesla convinced us of the impossible and today, we see many other companies jump on the same bandwagon. Automotive manufacturers like Rivian, Hyundai, Ford, Kia, Toyota, and many others are now in a race to introduce class-best electric vehicles. Luxury brands such as BMW, Mercedes, Audi, Volvo, and Lexus are pursuing their own goal of bringing future-proof EVs to us.
This technological race among major brands is vastly beneficial for car lovers who seek robust options. Not to forget, how it also plays a massive role in making our planet a better place to live. While there are many reasons to go for an electric or a hybrid vehicle, we bring you 10 compelling reasons why.
The carbon footprint left behind by all the gasoline vehicles around the globe is scary. Burning of gasoline and diesel fuel creates highly dangerous byproducts like nitrogen dioxide, carbon monoxide, benzene, formaldehyde, hydrocarbons, and, carbon dioxide. Carbon dioxide is the most common poisonous greenhouse gas found in our atmosphere.
According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), ICE vehicles are responsible for almost 95-percent of all carbon monoxide emissions in cities. These harmful emissions are responsible for contaminating the air and of course, various health hazards. These are reasons enough for us to take a step towards sustainability and do our part in protecting the planet. Electric vehicles have zero emissions as there is no fuel is burned to generate energy. On the other hand, hybrid vehicles are equipped with electric motor(s) alongside a gas engine that ensures minimal emission and much less compared to the traditional ICE vehicles.
2Electric And Hybrid Vehicles Are Effectively Cheaper In The Long Run
Hyundai
Electric and hybrid vehicles can save you many dollars in fuel; this is something that we know. According to Consumer Reports, EV owners can save up to $4,700 over the first seven years, which is certainly magnificent. However, that’s not all. EVs and hybrids save bucks in more than one way.
To begin with, these vehicles have fewer moving parts compared to traditional vehicles, resulting in fewer breakdowns. This means fewer visits to garages and spending money on repairs. Moreover, there is no need for frequent oil or fluid changes. Even though EVs and hybrid vehicles cost more than ICE-oriented vehicles, it is evident that you will save more in the long run.
This is usually the parameter where car enthusiasts are divided. While it may seem EVs do not offer the fun or that “oomph” due to silent operation, it might actually be a blessing. City-dwellers know the pain of enduring through the deafening sound of vehicles throughout the day. This is one of the major reasons why many appreciate the “quiet operation” of EVs and hybrids. The quietness and lack of vibration make the ride more comfortable than ever. This comes in handy during long drives where comfort happens to be the top priority. These electric vehicles are said to have the most advanced sound-dampening features.
Audi e-tron
Chevy Bolt EV
Chevy Bolt EUV
Ford Mustang Mach-E
Hyundai Ioniq 5
Jaguar I-PACE
Porsche Taycan
Tesla Model S
Volkswagen ID.4
4Electric Cars Last Longer Than The ICE Counterparts
GMC
The average lifespan of an ICE vehicle is estimated to be 12 years. On the other hand, JD Powerlists the average lifespan of an electric battery (which happens to be the soul of an EV) to be 10 to 20 years. However, the battery life can be prolonged by taking simple measures. Charging your vehicle at a Level 3 station can cause overheating issues, resulting in the deteriorating quality of the battery.
The longevity of the battery is also affected by the climate. Hot climate affects the life of the battery negatively. However, many manufacturers have introduced thermal management systems into their vehicles. In short, due to fewer moving parts and even fewer maintenance requirements, EVs and hybrids tend to last longer than their ICE counterparts.
Electric, hybrid, and plug-in hybrids are usually on the expensive side. This is due to the tech and features that come with these modern vehicles. However, to promote the buying of sustainable driving options, the U.S. government has introduced tax incentives and rebates for EV, PHEV, and hybrid buyers.
As of 2023, one can avail of a tax credit of up to $7,500 for a new electric, hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and fuel cell vehicle purchased. This has urged many reluctant and half-hearted buyers to make a concrete decision and switch to sustainable alternatives.
6To Be Part Of The Changing Trend
Rolls-Royce
There is no doubt that EV manufacturing companies are in a race to outdo each other. As a result, we now have no dearth of technologically advanced vehicles in the market today. Automotive manufacturers have their eyes not just on the present but also on the future. This brings us future-proof vehicles equipped with all the tech and specs that we can ask for. Adapting to the changing trend has been part of mankind and presently, it is revolving around sustainable transport options.
IIHS rolls out the “Top Safety Pick” and “Top Safety Pick+” list every year that contains vehicles that offer the most safety. According to IIHS, electric vehicles are turning out to as safer, or even safer, than traditional vehicles. This is a testament that making transportation alternatives environmentally friendly need not compromise in any department, especially safety. IIHS also reveals that the injury claim rates for drivers and passengers of battery-oriented vehicles were less than 40 percent as compared to ICE models.
Another reason is less fire risk due to the absence of flammable liquid(s). EVs and hybrid vehicles also have low centers of gravity with the motor and battery located at the bottom of the car. This results in increased traction, stability, and reduced risk of rollover.
8Convenient In Every Possible Way
Mercedes-Benz
Convenience is the second name of electric vehicles. First and foremost there are no frequent visits to the gas pumps. One can simply recharge the vehicle in the comfort of home overnight ahead of a long trip. The drained battery can also be replenished along the route during coffee or lunch breaks. Moreover, a completely charged EV or a hybrid vehicle can get you an average of 200 to 300 miles.
As discussed earlier, fewer moving parts also mean fewer visits to service centers and fewer costs associated with it. A huge EV market also ensures there is one in every segment for all types of drivers! The quiet driving experience means a more joyful ride with the least external disturbances.
Automakers are in a race to produce the best EV; thus, we are being offered many options loaded with the latest techs and specs. No matter what your preference might be, there is an EV out there for you. From supercars that offer face-melting speed and daily commute vehicles to colossus off-road SUVs and pickup trucks, EVs are present in every segment. Jeep and Rivian lead the off-road experts market. Whereas Volvo, BMW, and Mercedes among others, are taking care of the luxury EV market. Huge luxury and expensive brands like Rolls-Royce, and Lamborghini have announced their entry into the EV world too.
Considering the rate at which the EV market is growing, we can expect many additions in the near future. In short, due to the availability of vast options, we too can be a part of sustainable transport options without having to compromise on esthetics, performance, or features.
10Higher Resale Value
Nissan
Anything “electric” is supposed to have a depreciating resale value. Similar was the case with electric vehicles too. However, that’s the story of the past. What marred the resale value of EVs were mostly range and performance. A few years ago, hitting the range of 100 miles on a full charge was the benchmark. Now the average range is considered to be 200 or 250 miles. This has made a huge difference in the EV resale market.
Additionally, the increase in demand has made deliveries slower from the manufacturer’s end. This has urged many EV buyers to search through the used car market. As per Forbes, used car prices saw an increase of 11 percent between August 2021 and 2022 due to supply shortages. On the other hand, the same period saw a massive 56.7 percent rise in used EV market sales.
Unlock Your Automotive Passion and Explore the Road Ahead
