Toyota to the Power of Three at the Business Car Awards
The Business Car Awards, announced at a presentation yesterday evening, provided triple honours for Toyota, with the RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid named Best Hybrid Car, the all-new Yaris Best Small Car and, for the third year running, Toyota and Lexus jointly receiving the Green Manufacturer of the Year title.
The RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid is both the flagship of Toyota’s hybrid electric range and the most powerful. Its system produces a maximum 302bhp and enables an EV zero emission driving range of up to 46 miles on a full battery charge. Recognising the model’s high efficiency, the award judges said: “RAV4 Plug-in impressed us with its high electric driving range, attracting just a seven per cent BIK company car tax rate and improving battery-only usability. This contributes to strong real-world running costs.”
The Toyota Yaris was also a winner with the judges adding: “The new Yaris will impress fleet managers with its efficient hybrid powertrain and a comprehensive package of safety systems, while drivers will be won over by its stylish design and enjoyable driving experience.”
Toyota and Lexus retained the Green Manufacturer of the Year title, which rewards car makers for providing environmentally focused products and services for business users. On this award the judges said: “Toyota had the best all-round approach to environmental-friendliness of the contenders in this category. We were particularly impressed by the company’s green manufacturing initiative, as well as its extensive range of hybrid vehicles.”
Already this year, Lexus has introduced its first battery electric vehicle, the UX 300e compact luxury SUV, while its first plug-in hybrid electric model, the NX 450h+ mid-size SUV, will be launched in November. In addition to the RAV4 and Prius plug-in hybrid electric models, Toyota has introduced all-electric power to its range in the form of its Proace Electric Van. This will shortly be joined by the compact Proace City Electric. It’s multi-technology routemap for delivering zero emission mobility also includes the hydrogen fuel cell electric Mirai saloon, newly available as a second generation model.
Stuart Ferma, General Manager Toyota and Lexus Fleet, said: “Environmental performance is key for our customers and we have to play our role in supplying products that meet their needs now and for the future. It is rewarding to have our range of products and commitment to the environment recognised in this way. As we look to next year, we have announced our all-new pure electric vehicle, the bz4X which will further demonstrate our commitment to achieving carbon neutrality and increase the choice of powertrain technologies available for business users.”
For the full range of Toyota and Lexus hybrid vehicles visit www.toyota.co.uk and www.lexus.co.uk.
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