CAR NEWS

Moove – The Uber-Backed Mobility Fintech Startup Acquires Kovi To Create ‘The Largest And Most Productive Hybrid And EV Fleet In The World’.

The African-born, global mobility fintech, Moove has announced its acquisition of Kovi an Uber-backed Brazilian mobility provider headquartered in São Paulo.

This strategic acquisition aligns with Moove’s commitment to advancing mobility and expanding its footprint in the rapidly growing Latin American market. It not only strengthens Moove’s position as one of the world’s principal rideshare fleet operators, but incorporates Kovi’s proprietary IoT software and advanced driver behaviour algorithm, which complement Moove’s existing focus on safety and efficiency.

These innovations will strengthen Moove’s AI mobility strategy, further advancing its position as a global leader in mobility and autonomous vehicle innovation, while also reinforcing its commitment to driving economic growth in Latin America.

Moove

Moove was founded and launched in Lagos, Nigeria in 2020 by Ladi Delano and Jide Odunsi, enabling delivery drivers to finance automobiles and start driving with partners like Uber in three simple steps: – Apply, Get verified and Drive. Moove started with 76 vehicles in Lagos in 2020 and grew to 36,000 vehicles. Per the company’s website, over 52,787,109 trips have been completed. Additionally, it is available in 19 cities across six continents. 

Moove has secured significant funding over the years. In 2023, $8 million had been by Absa Corporate and Investment Banking to reach Ghana, bringing its total investment from the bank to $28 million, Fintech Global reports. $100 million had been raised in a Series B round led by Uber in March 2024 to further its expansion, TechCrunch mentioned.

Kovi

Kovi was founded in 2018 and has established itself as a pioneering force in making vehicle ownership more accessible and efficient through innovative technology and financial solutions. With a robust fleet and a strong presence in Brazil and Mexico, Kovi has demonstrated impressive growth since its launch in 2018. Its innovative approach to driver support and its strong foothold in Brazil bring significant value to Moove’s global operations, strengthening its ability to expand into high growth markets and drive impactful change in mobility. Kovi’s data-driven approach to vehicle management and user experience will complement Moove’s existing capabilities, enabling the company to offer superior services to its customers.

Ladi Delano, Co-Founder and Co-CEO of Moove, said:-

“Kovi has built an impressive business with a robust presence in Brazil, one of the most dynamic mobility markets in the world. We’re thrilled to welcome them to the Moove family. This transaction not only strengthens our footprint in Latin America and reinforces our position as a dominant player in global mobility, but it also underscores our commitment to contributing to the Brazilian economy. Kovi’s proprietary IoT software and advanced driver behaviour models complement our existing capabilities, supporting our focus on safety, efficiency, and innovation in AI mobility.”

Adhemar Milani Neto, CEO of Kovi, said:-

“Today, we stand at the forefront of a new era in mobility, and we believe that Moove has done a fantastic job at scaling their business on a global scale and with the right strategic angles. I met the founders many years back when they were scaling their business in Africa, and I was immediately impressed by their purpose-driven approach, which is also a perfect match to our culture. Together, I believe we will become a truly global category-defining business and will leverage scale and deep expertise never seen in our market. We are also excited to continue our expansion across LaTam now with robustness with such strong partners.”

The completion of the transaction is subject to customary closing conditions, including approval from the Brazilian antitrust authority.

Geely Automobile Brand Debut in Ghana by Japan Motors – Geely automobile brand was debut in Accra, Ghana by Japan Motors Trading Co. Ltd. (JMTC) with the official unveiling of three Geely models to Ghanaian patrons today.

The three freshly debut dynamic Geely vehicles at the historic milestone event are the Coolray, Starray and GX3 Pro. Which is a significant expansion of Japan Motors’ automotive portfolio.

Geely Coolray

Geely Coolray: A high-performance SUV designed with global modular architecture (BMA) and featuring Geely’s next-generation 1.5TD NordThor powertrain. With advanced engineering, the Coolray promises a powerful and smooth driving experience for modern drivers.

Geely Starray

Geely Starray: An ultra-modern SUV inspired by Geely’s visionary “Vision Starburst” concept model. The Starray’s bold, futuristic design and advanced features set it apart as a standout choice in the SUV category.

Geely GX3 Pro

Geely GX3 Pro: A stylish and cost-effective city SUV, offering practicality and economy without compromising on quality. Ideal for urban commutes, the GX3 Pro makes the dream of affordable, efficient mobility a reality.

Japan Motors Trading Co. Ltd. (JMTC) disclosed that the Geely Coolray SUV was assembled locally in Ghana at its state-of-the-art ISO 9001 certified Japan Motors Vehicle Assembly Plant at the Tema Industrial Area which was inaugurated by President Akufo-Addo in 31^st March, 2022. This local production further underscores Japan Motors’ dedication to advancing Ghana’s automotive industry. Alongside its assembly of other brands like Nissan, Peugeot, and Foton. Japan Motors has produced over 1,000 vehicles with a record of zero defects, contributing to job creation and skill development in Ghana.

Remarks at the official debut event of the Geely automobile models

 Mr. Amine Kabbara, General Manager of Sales and Marketing at Japan Motors Trading Co. Ltd. (JMTC), highlighted the importance of this milestone:-

“The launch of Geely marks a new chapter in Ghana’s automotive landscape. We are excited to offer Ghanaian drivers an unmatched driving experience defined by innovation and advanced technology,”

Mr. Nouhad Kalmoni, Executive Director of JMTC, expressed enthusiasm for the three new models, saying:-

“Geely’s diverse product lineup offers something for everyone, whether it’s a compact car for city commuting, a versatile SUV for family adventures, or reliable options for company fleets. The locally assembled Coolray symbolizes our commitment to local manufacturing and the future potential of Ghana’s automobile industry. The Coolray stands as a symbol of what Ghana’s automobile industry can achieve and a potential for growth and innovation in the years to come.”

Mr. Kalmoni also assured Ghanaian customers of comprehensive after-sales support, with an industry-leading 6-year or 200,000 km warranty (whichever comes first) for Geely vehicles, setting a new standard for customer service in Ghana.

Geely’s General Manager for West Africa, Mr. Scofield Wu, added:-

“Geely has a strong global presence in over 70 countries, and we are excited to introduce our exceptional products to the Ghanaian market. Japan motors is one of the biggest auto groups in Ghana with a long history and good reputation, as such Geely will work together with the company to focus on users, continuously improve product and service capabilities, and we believe this will bring a more excellent car experience to every consumer in Ghana.”

Rana Motors debuts 30 Unique Limited models of Kia Sportage to celebrate 3 decades of iconic Kia Sportage in Ghana:- Rana Motors, a major player in the Ghanaian automotive industry that’s the sole importer and distributor of Kia automobiles celebrates three decades of its iconic SUV, Kia Sportage models in Ghana with the debut of 30 units limited 30th Anniversary Special Edition of the 5th Generation model.

The Kia Sportage limited 30th Anniversary Special Edition was proudly assembled in Ghana with each Kia Sportage feature customizations or limited-edition details to commemorate the milestone. These special editions come with exclusive design features, upgraded technology, and premium finishes to appeal to both new and loyal customers ranging from cutting-edge technology with key upgrades including acoustic laminated glass for a quieter interior and reinforced safety features like eight airbags, including rear side airbags.

For 30 years since it was introduced to the Ghanaian market in 1994, the Kia Sportage has maintained its legacy of design, cutting-edge safety and performance and grown to become a household name. Over seven million Kia Sportage units sold across five generations globally and its Kia’s bestselling model since 2015 best known for its captivating balance of design, performance and safety.

The Kia Sportage has undergone astonishing transformation since its debut, with each generation further enhancing the model’s appeal. The second-generation Sportage model introduced a monocoque platform, improving ride comfort and boosting sales significantly, whereas the third-generation Sportage, known for its bold Tiger Nose grille. The fourth and fifth generations have seen the addition of Cutting edge technology including advanced driver assistance systems and fuel efficient engine options made for both city commutes and long distance travel across the country.

During the debuting of the 2024 Kia Sportage 30th Anniversary Limited Edition at the Rana Motors Showroom in Accra, Ghana, the Chief Operating Officer of Rana Motors Kassem Odaymat disclosed that the 30 unique Sportage models have been built for reliability, stylish design, and advanced features, making them a popular choice in the SUV market and described the positioning of the company as a game-changer in the automotive landscape.

“The latest generation of Sportage will raise the future while continuing to last through the present with a full redesign. The all-new Sportage we have today has become synonymous with dependability and innovation. The 2023 Sportage stands tall as a veteran with 30 years of exploration behind it, a legacy Rana Motors is proud to be associated with.

To mark three decades of outstanding success, Kia has equipped a new special edition of the 2024 Sportage with enhanced specification, focusing on convenience and safety while further elevating the model’s considerable luxury and design appeal.

 Looking into the future, we are certain that Kia Sportage is ready to explore new horizons. With Rana Motors by its side, this adventurer will continue to push the boundaries of possibility.” – Chief Operating Officer, Rana Motors, Kassem Odaymat

Automobile expert & radio host Eddie Poku highlighted its enduring appeal and took attendees through the 5 generations of Sportage’s rich history while some loyal Kia Sportage customers also shared their stories of ownership, cementing the Sportage’s reputation for comfort and performance.

Alex Kuntah, Sales manager at Rana Motors added that:

“the Sportage brand is readily available in all showrooms, offering customers’ value for money”.

The first five Kia Sportage owners of the 30th Anniversary Limited Edition received a premium branded anniversary gifts to compliment the handing over of their latest Sportage at the unveiling.

Rana Motors Unveils the Ashok Leyland Phoenix: first locally assembled – The first ever Phoenix Ashok Leyland brand of motor vehicles fully assembled in Ghana by Ghanaian engineers have been unveiled at Rana Motors’s Automotive vehicle assembling plant located at Amasaman in the Ga West Municipality in Ghana.

The new Ashok Leyland Phoenix 3-seater motor vehicle is a two-tonne payload with a five-year warranty and have a relatively cheaper fuel consumption. The Phoenix steering column comes with tilt-able and telescopic movements while the 2-point suspended cabin offers comfort and convenience. It also offers class-leading comfort that sets the benchmark in the commercial automobile industry while the vehicle also comes with multi-angle  adjustable seats.

Kassem Odaymat, Chief Operating Officer of Rana Motors,  speaking at the unveiling of the new automobile commended the government for developing the Ghana Automotive Development policy (GADP) as it had paved the way for the establishment of motor vehicle assembly plants in the country and also indicated that the phoenix truck’s launch was the results of stringer partnership between Rana Motors and Ashok Leyland and further stressed that the success of any venture was underpinned by such collaborations.

“The Phoenix, a 2-tonne payload truck, stands on an all new platform, powered by a 1500 cc Turbocharged diesel engine that delivers 80 Hp of maximum power and 190 Nm of peak torque.

What truly sets the Phoenix apart is its tailor-made features that address the diverse needs of our customers. From its fuel-efficient engine to its spacious interior, the Phoenix is designed to provide optimal performance and comfort whether it’s for personal use or commercial purposes. Its maneuverability on our small streets, robustness to tackle our diverse roads, and affordability make it an ideal fit for our country. This is more than just a vehicle; it’s a cost-effective solution”

Kassem Odaymat – Chief Operating Officer, Rana Motors

The Head of International Operations of Ashok Leyland, Rajesh R., emphasized the great progress and collaboration Ashok Leyland and Rana Motors have had over the years highlighting the high quality of their products including the new Ashok Leyland Phoenix.

“Our commitment to excellence extends beyond borders. With modern integrated manufacturing plants in India and abroad, state-of-the-art R&D centres and a global footprint spanning from Asia to Africa, we have established ourselves as a trusted and reliable partner in progress. Our products are a symbol of reliability and a testament to our enduring partnership with our customers.

It brings me immense joy to announce our collaboration with our two-decade-old partner, Rana Motors. Together we have brought the Phoenix to Ghana, maintaining the same standard as any of our vehicles produced in our modern integrated plants”

Rajesh R. – Head of International Operations of Ashok Leyland

First Secretary and Acting High Commissioner of India to Ghana, Chinpau Ngaihte in a brief remark at the launch of the new Phoenix trucks indicated that the new development reflects a great partnership between India and Ghana.

“As speakers before me said, we have gathered here in this vibrant land of Ghana to celebrate the remarkable collaboration between India and Ghana exemplified through the local assembling of Ashok Leyland Phoenix on Ghanaian soil. This achievement is a testament to the enduring partnership between our nations and a significant milestone in our shared journey towards progress and economic empowerment”

Chinpau Ngaihte – First Secretary and Acting High Commissioner of India to Ghana

Component assembly policy

The Deputy Minister of Trade and Industry & New Juaben South Member of Parliament, Michael Okyere Baafi, who officially unveiled the new trucks, expressed delight about the achievement chalked by Rana Motors and Ashok Leyland.

He noted that the assembling of the Ashok Leyland brands of vehicles under the Ghana Automotive Development Programme brings to eleven, the brands of motor vehicles being assembled under the programme.

He stressed that Ghana was on the path of becoming the vehicle manufacturing hub in the sub-region through the implementation of the Ghana Automotive Development Programme highlighting the substantial positive impacts the automotive industry can have on economies.

The deputy minister added that as a measure to promote the development of an integrated automotive industry, the government was finalizing processes on the development of a Component Manufacturing policy. 

“This policy is meant to attract investments from component manufacturers to feed into the local automotive industry while supplying aftermarket components across the sub-region”

Michael Okyere Baafi, Deputy Minister of Trade and Industry & New Juaben South Member of Parliament

Mr Baafi said the policy would further enhance the availability of certified parts and assembly components to drive the export of made-in-Ghana vehicles under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) rules.

The launch of the Phoenix trucks brings to eight the range of cars assembled in the country by Rana Motors.

President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo commissions KIA vehicle assembly plant – President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has commissioned the Kia automobile assembly plant in Ghana, urging the motor vehicle manufacturer to work towards making their products affordable to the local consumer.

Rana Motors

Set up by Rana Motors Limited, a local licensed dealer for the South Korean automobile company, the plant, situated at Amasaman in the Ga West Municipality of Ghana, will assemble various Kia brands for Ghana and the West African markets.

The plant is a landmark achievement that marks the rollout of the first generation of KIA motor vehicles assembled under the Automotive Development Policy of the government.

Chief Executive Officer of Rana Motors, Essam Odaymat, in his address, recounted that the dream of the company started some 35 years ago when their father, Alhaji Mohammed Odaymat arrived in Ghana and stayed throughout the years to achieve his dream.

“Rana Motors began as a humble metal fabrication workshop located at Avenor. Handwork and dedication were soon to pay off in 1986 when Rana Motors was awarded the dealership in KIA vehicles being the first to do in Sub-Saharan Africa. The establishment of the company over the years, required tremendous effort to gradually change the perception and shine a ling in what we always believed the people behind the KIA brand possessed.”

Chief Executive Officer of Rana Motors, Essam Odaymat

Mr. Essam Odaymat however expressed gratitude to the government of Ghana for laying the foundation to allow their father to realise the dream.

Chief Operating Officer of Rana Motors, Kassem Odaymat, said one key feature of the newly commissioned motor vehicle assembly plant can produce 70,000 units of annual volume with enough space and planning to include more complex assembly.

“It has been built with environmental credentials protecting the future of all of us including rain water harvesting, solar power readiness and even recycling shipping materials and metal into parts of the building,”

Chief Operating Officer of Rana Motors, Kassem Odaymat

Kassem Odaymat added that the facility is capable of meeting and satisfying Ghanaian standards and customs needs. He said it can further expand to meet the standards and customer needs of neighbouring countries in Africa which will allow the potential exportation of cars from Ghana to other markets.

“I look forward to a bright future for this facility when it will produce higher volumes with much more complex operations,”

Chief Operating Officer of Rana Motors, Kassem Odaymat

President Akufo-Addo said the opening of the plant was a major boost for Ghana’s industrial transformation agenda and that the development would enable his government to achieve its vision to make Ghana a fully integrated and competitive industrialised hub of the automotive industry in the West African sub region.

The President said the establishment of the plant had been made possible by the conscious initiative of his administration to attract investment in the automotive sector under the Ghana Automotive Development Policy initiated by his Government and further stressed that they will pursue policies that would stimulate patronage of locally assembled vehicles.

Kia is the fourth largest global motor vehicle manufacturer. The company joins other global car brands including Toyota-Suzuki, Nissan, Volkswagen, Peugeot, Sinotruck, and Ghana’s indigenous brand Kantanka, who have already established motor vehicle assembly plants in Ghana.

Noting that the critical component for harnessing the full potential of the automotive industry was a demand for assembled motor vehicles, the President revealed that his government was developing policies that would enable ordinary citizens to acquire locally assembled vehicles.

“As you may all be aware, I have directed the Chief of Staff at the office of the President, the prioritisation of the procurement of domestically assembled vehicles by state institutions to fulfill the government’s commitment to patronising made-in-Ghana products.” 

President Akufo-Addo

“We are, however, mindful of the fact that the state alone cannot purchase the sufficient numbers of vehicles to be produced from our assembly plants and will thus require Ghanaians also patronise these vehicles”

President Akufo-Addo

Consequently, the government, the President disclosed, would soon roll out an asset-based vehicle financing scheme, as pertained in other developed climes, to stimulate the demand for domestically assembled vehicles.

“We have also shown commitment by implementing the zero-rating of VAT on the sale of domestically assembled vehicles. This means that there is no VAT on the sale of domestically assembled vehicles even to the end user to make domestically assembled vehicles affordable,

”President Akufo-Addo

President Akufo-Addo told the gathering that he had charged the Finance Minister, Ken Ofori-Atta to submit to Parliament the required legislative instruction proposing the implementation start date of the Customs Amendment Act (2020) and implementation of those outstanding provisions would trigger the full implementation of the Ghana automotive development policy and drive further investment into the industry.

The President also disclosed that the Trade and Industry Minister would soon submit to Cabinet for approval the Ghana Automotive Component Manufacturing Policy (ACMP), outlining incentives to attract investors into the component manufacturing sector. 

The policy, he stated, would also support ‘artisans at Suame in Kumasi, Kokompe in Accra, and other enclaves to upgrade their capacity to fit in the automotive industry.

President Akufo-Addo expressed hope that the incentives granted to Rana Motors would translate into competitive pricing of motor vehicles for the Ghanaian consumer.

“We look forward to the transitioning of this assembly plant into a fully integrated vehicle production plant in Ghana,”

President Akufo-Addo

First Locally Assembled Suzuki Swift Unveiled in Ghana – Toyota Tsusho Manufacturing Ghana Company Ltd (TTMG), based in Kpone, Tema unveiled the first locally assembled Suzuki Swift in Ghana. Toyota Tsusho Manufacturing Ghana Company Ltd (TTMG), Toyota Tsusho Corporation (“Toyota Tsusho”)’s vehicle assembly company in the Republic of Ghana, began SKD* production of Suzuki Motor Corporation (“Suzuki”)’s Swift compact car in Ghana in September 2022.

Automobile assembly in Ghana rides on the back of a Memorandum of Understanding on Cooperation in developing Ghana’s automotive industry, signed between Toyota Tsusho Corporation (TTC) and the Government of Ghana.

With the introduction of the Ghana Automotive Development Policy, the Government of Ghana aims to enlarge the automotive industry and create new opportunities for skilled Ghanaians. The policy cater the necessary framework to establish assembly and manufacturing capacity in Ghana and to create a fully integrated and competitive industrial hub for automotive manufacturing in collaboration with the private sector, global, regional and domestic. 

The Suzuki Swift is a subcompact automobile known for its fuel efficiency, affordable price, and fun-to-drive nature. In addition, the Swift is perfect for city driving as it has a tight turning circle, excellent visibility, and light controls. As a result, the Suzuki range in Ghana has demonstrated impressive growth in market share across various automobile segments, with CFAO Ghana PLC recording a sale of 2900 units since its introduction in 2015.

During his welcome address, Mr Akira Yamada, Managing Director of TTMG, disclosed his appreciation to the Suzuki Motor Corporation (SMC), Toyota Tsusho Corporation (TTC), CFAO Ghana PLC and the Ministry of Trade & Industry for making possible this laudable feat for TTMG, and Ghana’s automotive industry.

‘This assembly project marks an important milestone for both parties since it is the first Suzuki assembly effort with TTC.’ He added, ‘In 2022, Suzuki sales in Africa increased by 60% to 116 thousand units and in Ghana increased by 63% to over 1 thousand units. Therefore, we have positioned this alliance as essential to our company’s strategy in the African market. We will continue strengthening it to enhance Suzuki’s presence in Africa, especially in Ghana.’

Mr Koichi Suzuki,Managing Officer, Middle East and Africa Division of SMC

Mr Shinichiro Otsuka, Chief Operating Officer for TTC, Africa Division, declared his gratitude to the government of Ghana for issuing the necessary certification to TTMG as a vehicle assembly facility, which was in line with the Ghana Automotive Development Policy. He added, ‘We are committed to contributing to the economy, industry and society of the republic of Ghana through automobile production together with Suzuki Motor Corporation.’

At the unveiling event, Mr Adedamola Adelabu, Managing Director & Country Delegate of CFAO Ghana PLC, gave an overview of Suzuki’s performance in Ghana’s automotive market. He shared that ‘By 2022, Suzuki attained a market share of 5%, and currently holds a market share of 17%, reflecting a growth of 293%. The Swift model alone accounts for 30% of total sales volume.’

 “The government of Ghana is fully committed to working with all stakeholders to promote industrialization and make Ghana the industrial hub for the automotive industry in Africa”

Honourable Samuel Abu Jinapor, Minister for Trade & Industry

After a special tape-cutting ceremony, the Suzuki Swift vehicle was unveiled amidst fanfare and audience applause. The commissioning ceremony is another commendable milestone for TTMG, SMC, TTC and CFAO Ghana PLC; a union of sound investment and technology transfer aimed at making Ghana a competitive automotive hub in Africa.

Overview of TTMG

Toyota Unveils All-New Prius HEV in Japan – Toyota Motor Corporation announces today that it has begin sales of all-new Prius Series Parallel Hybrid (HEV) models. It will also unveil Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV) models around March this year.

Launched in 1997 as the world’s first mass-produced hybrid car, the Prius has driven uptake of HEVs as a new-generation eco-car with outstanding fuel efficiency. These days, hybrid technologies are employed in a wide range of different models that are loved and enjoyed by people all around the world.

With a range of powertrain options being developed to promote carbon neutrality, Toyota wanted to create a new Prius HEV that customers would enjoy and cherish as the automobile of choice for generations to come. Developed under the “Hybrid Reborn” concept, this new model is an exhilarating package that adds a design inspiring love at first sight and captivating driving performance to its core strength as an environmentally friendly car.

The main features of the new Prius are as follows.

Vehicle outline

A design inspiring love at first sight

• Inheriting the signature monoform silhouette of the original Prius, the new Prius has been reborn with a lower center of gravity and even more stylish proportions. The simple yet sculpted body expresses exhilaration that appeals to the senses and a universal beauty that will remain popular into the future.
• The “island architecture” concept achieves a low-stress, spacious interior with a cockpit that makes it easy to concentrate on driving. Altogether, the interior offers intuitive operation and an enjoyable driving experience.
• A total of eight body colors are available, including two newly developed, solid base colors of Ash and Mustard that create a sporty impression, bringing touches of color to the daily lives of customers to create a stronger sense of attachment.

Captivating driving performance

• The new Prius is equipped with the latest fifth-generation hybrid system in both the 2.0-liter and 1.8-liter models.
• Compared to the previous model^*1, the 2.0-liter Prius (Z and G grades) achieves improved fuel efficiency of 28.6 km/L^*2 and maximum system output of 144 kW (196 PS), which is 1.6 times higher than the previous model^*1. This model achieves a high level of balance between the outstanding environmental performance of a Prius and the captivating driving performance of a car that reacts as expected with satisfying acceleration and responsive driving.

• With a long list of improvements, including updates to all electric modules, the 1.8-liter Prius (U and X grades) achieves great fuel efficiency of 32.6 km/L^*3. The refined driving performance and seamless acceleration of a hybrid provide feelings of agility when starting off and the responsiveness of direct driving power.

• The second-generation TNGA platform was developed as part of continuing improvement of the matured TNGA platform to achieve the exhilarating styling and driving performance of the new Prius, allowing for a lower center of gravity and large-diameter tires.
• This version comes with the latest E-Four system. Employing a high-output motor and other features, it offers improved uphill performance on low-friction road surfaces, like snow-covered roads, and greater stability when turning.

Advanced Safety and Driving Support Systems

Toyota Safety Sense, the latest active safety package, is a standard inclusion. Including the Advanced Safety System with an expanded range of detectable objects, the new Prius also comes with the following added features.

– Rear vehicle proximity notification [first for a Toyota brand vehicle^*4]

Using the Blind Spot Monitor’s rear millimeter-wave radar, this feature detects vehicles in the rear and, if another vehicle is approaching, it alerts the driver via the Multi-Information Display and buzzer.

– Approaching vehicle proximity support (recording function and vehicle reporting suggestions) [first for a Toyota brand vehicle^*4]

If an automobile approaching from the rear is too close, this system offers the driver suggestions for dealing with the issue, including contacting the police or the HELPNET emergency call service. In vehicles equipped with a drive recorder, in addition to automatically recording the event, the system stores the data in a dedicated area that makes it difficult to record over.

– Secondary Collision Brake (rear impact mitigation when stopped) [first for a Toyota brand vehicle^*4]

Using the Blind Spot Monitor’s rear millimeter-wave radar, this system detects vehicles in the rear and, if it determines a very high possibility of a collision while the vehicle is stopped, it applies the brakes to reduce speed if a rear collision occurs. Compared to the previous model, this system enables an earlier reduction in speed by applying the brakes prior to a collision.

KINTO Unlimited: New car subscription service launched

• The new “KINTO Unlimited” car subscription offered by Toyota and KINTO opened for subscribers on January 10. To start, the new Prius U grade will be available on this service, which will be the only service offering it.
• KINTO is a subscription service^*5 which includes insurance, tax and other costs combined into a monthly subscription charge. Using new Toyota technologies, KINTO Unlimited will be provided with two additional values in the form of upgrades that ensure evolution of the vehicle’s software and hardware and connected services that ensure protection of cars and people using the customer’s driving data. These additional values will help maintain the value of the car, which is considered in advance to reduce the monthly subscription charge to start at 16,610 yen per month (including tax)^*6.
• The Prius Z and G grades will be available on the usual KINTO subscription service.
• More information on KINTO Unlimited and KINTO’s other services is available here (https://kinto-jp.com/lp/prius/